Further development of barcode technology

In order to maximize the chances of tracing individual products and batches, Dematic uses not only transponder technology but also new developments in "conventional" bar codes, which are particularly attractive as an entry-level solution. Bar codes (ring codes) are attached to the goods. Applying ring codes to the top of the package (top label) enables the bar codes to be read in by cameras instead of the scanners that had previously been required. This eliminates the manual scanning process.

Companies in the food industry would be well advised to start implementing the directive in good time as, depending on the preliminary work involved, the procedure may take longer than expected. Long-term planning also helps to steer system changeover away from seasonal peaks. Those who want to hire IT specialists with experience in the food sector - for example in the international food standards environment - should not wait until the rush just before the end of the changeover period.

Dematic supports its customers during implementation by first defining a bespoke tracing concept. The target processes are then defined and the responsibilities assigned. The more realistically the physical processes are mapped in the IT systems, the easier it is to verify the origin. In some cases, compliance with the EU Directive may therefore also require extensive reorganization of the IT systems and/or the physical processes. In such cases, investment costs are usually recouped quickly thanks to increased efficiency. Those companies using R/3 as the ERP system already have all the basic functions in place for proof of origin. The necessary upgrade can be dealt with quickly if the physical processes match the mapping in the system. As with other directives and standards, EU 178/2002 requires all processes to be documented

The new EU Directive is another step towards third-generation logistics systems. Looking beyond the systems running in various companies, transponder technology creates maximum transparency and provides considerable scope for reducing costs in the logistics sector.