Track Every SKU Across the Supply Chain with Labelz
Labelz transforms static labels into dynamic tracking tools. It creates a traceability workflow where each serialized or QR-labeled item can be tracked from manufacturing through distribution and warehousing, all the way to the end consumer.
What it is
Labelz transforms static labels into dynamic tracking tools. It creates a traceability workflow where each serialized or QR-labeled item can be tracked from manufacturing through distribution and warehousing, all the way to the end consumer.
Why it matters
- Shrinkage reduction: Pinpoint exactly where inventory disappears in the chain by tracking custody changes.
- Faster reconciliation: Speed up audits by replacing manual counts with digital scans, making dispute resolution with vendors significantly easier.
- Better returns handling: Instantly validate if a returned item was actually sold by you, reducing fraud.
- Operational accuracy: Move away from "blind" shipments to validated, scan-based receipts and transfers.
How it works (Reference Lifecycle)
To implement this, you need to define an Event Model (the digital heartbeat of the item) and an Operational SOP (the physical actions).
The Event Model
Define the key moments that update an item's status. Common events include:
- Created (QR generated)
- Printed & Packed
- Shipped & Received
- Moved (Bin-to-bin)
- Sold / Returned
- Consumer Feedback
Source Operations
Print at source: The manufacturer or vendor prints the label. This is the moment the physical item is "born" in the system.
Transit & Warehousing
Scan at Packing: Confirm assignment to a box/shipment.
Scan at Inbound: Confirm receipt at the warehouse.
Scan at Outbound: Verify the item is leaving for a sale.
What to Document for Ops Teams
For this to work, your operations team needs a clear playbook. Make sure to define:
- Mandatory Scan Nodes: Explicitly list which steps (e.g., Receiving Dock, Packing Table) must perform a scan.
- Scanning Frequency: Do they scan every single unit, or do they scan a parent carton (box-level) to update all child items?
- Exception Handling: What is the protocol for a "Mismatch"? (e.g., if a code is unknown, a duplicate scan is detected, or an item is in the wrong location).
Outputs
When the workflow is live, you gain access to:
- Item history view: A chronological timeline of every event for a specific SKU/Serial.
- Exception reports: Automated lists of missing scans, duplicate attempts, or route deviations.
- Audit exports: Detailed data logs ready for investigations or compliance reporting.