Serialization Solutions
For consumer and patient safety, supply chain security and brand protection
Product Serialization Technology
Serializing individual products is a straightforward process; assigning a unique identifying number to each product package. When serializing cartons, the number is printed directly on the carton surface in both human and machine-readable formats, along with other critical details such as expiration dates or lot codes. For applications such as serialization of round containers, the code may be printed on a label which is then applied to the package surface, or helper codes may be printed on caps...
Benefits of Track and Trace Serialization
Using pharmaceutical track and trace serialization equipment offers improved security to the supply chain, and subsequent safety to the end patient in assurance that the product is authentic. Manufacturers share the serialized data with government authorities, distributors, third party providers and retailers, working to ensure everyone has access to the information. This is needed to check the legitimacy of a product at each step in the distribution process.
Serialized products make it easi...
Serialization Systems
Establishing a serialization program requires coordination between four basic elements: a printer, a camera, an automation controller (PLC) and a computer. The computer serves as the central control unit, providing instructions for the printer and the camera. The camera inspects and verifies whether the code is readable and correct. For manufacturers with available space to install an automated system, these elements are designed and tested to support smooth execution for serialization.
Our...
Integrated Serialization
It can be challenging to replace or upgrade components or systems where packaging or serialization processes are already in place. We can integrate our hardware with your existing equipment, including hardware from other track and trace providers. Our integrated components offer a flexible track and trace solution that includes compact smart cameras, scanners and printing devices suited for tight spaces such as cartoners or label printers. We help you remain compliant with serialization requirem...
Data Storage and Transmission
The assignment of serial numbers to products requires either the generation of numbers on site, the downloading of numbers from a provider or downloading the numbers from local infrastructure. Reporting of serial numbers and the date of commissioning is recorded on a central database and must be protected to prevent data tampering. Our software works with your secure network to assign serial numbers to products, record their usage and pass them on to your ERP or level 4 system for storage.
FAQ's
What is package serialization?
Package serialization is the marking of a package on the production line with a unique identifying number. These numbers are usually printed on the surface of the packaging or on a label which is then applied to the package in both human and machine-readable formats (usually a 1D or 2D barcode). These numbers are recorded and uploaded to a central database.
How much space on my production line do I need for serialization?
In-line serialization can take anything from 60-100 cm of space on the production line, depending on the shape and size of the packaging. Solutions range from standalone systems to integrated components designed to fit inside packaging equipment.
The advantage with a standalone system is product handling is part of the process already built in to the system but you must have line space to accommodate it in the production line. Our standalone serialization portfolio includes automated systems such as the T33 Automated Serialization, XMV-TE and XS2MV.
On the other hand, integrated solutions offer the flexibility to fit your production line and can be tailored to fit your space, however you must already have product handling capabilities that allow for serialization process to be incorporated. Our integrated serialization systems are available for a variety of packages using the T53 Integrated Serialization or the T63 Integrated 360 Serialization machine for round containers.
What are the requirements for serialization in the pharmaceutical production process?
A number of countries across the globe have requirements mandating the serialization of pharmaceuticals. These requirements can vary slightly from region to region, but the basics remain the same. Each individual product carton must be marked with a unique identifying number in alpha-numeric and barcode formats – usually a 2D barcode. These numbers need to be recorded and uploaded to a central database. At the point of sale, the code is scanned and checked against the central database to ensure authenticity. It may also be necessary to scan products along each step of the supply chain, depending on regulations.
What industries can benefit from the serialization process?
A large number of industries benefit from serializing their products – any industry in which counterfeit products are a problem will appreciate serialization's anti-counterfeiting capabilities.
Government legislation in the pharmaceutical industry requires manufacturers to comply with regulations. Even as a mandate, the benefits to track and trace processes are extensive for the manufacturer, providing anti-counterfeit measures and confidence for the consumer that medicines are safe which ultimately protects the company's brand reputation.
Other industries are actively looking at ways to implement track and trace. It can be useful for luxury goods such as premium brands, alcohols and even caviar. Premium brands can utilize track and trace for added brand protection, to aid in anti-counterfeit measures. Learn more about a Petrochemicalmanufacturers' use of track & trace systems for this purpose.
What's the difference between track and trace and serialization?
You may hear these terms used interchangeably by media, public figures or government authorities, but one describes a specific step in packaging a product (serialization) and the other is the overall process (track and trace). Informally, "Serialization" has become the preferred word choice to describe the track and trace process, as the public has embraced this terminology.
Serialization is the marking of a product at the individual level with a unique identifying number. That number is recorded and uploaded to a centralized database where it can be checked at point of sale to establish the authenticity of the product. Track & Trace refers to the overall process which combines serialization with aggregation, establishing complete traceability of products as they move through the supply chain.
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