Where Identcode Is Used: Locations, Systems and Practical Spots in the Supply Chain

Identcodes are small strings with big impact, and they appear in many physical and digital locations across the supply chain. Knowing where to use Identcodes helps operations teams design workflows that improve accuracy, speed, and traceability. This article describes the most common physical locations and IT systems where Identcodes are used and provides practical guidance for each.

Warehouses and distribution centers

Warehouses are the most obvious place to find Identcodes. They are applied at multiple points:

• Receiving docks: When a truck arrives, receiving staff scan Identcodes on pallets and cartons to match incoming shipments to purchase orders and advanced shipping notices (ASNs).
• Putaway locations: During putaway, Identcodes link a unit to a location in the WMS so it can be found later during picking.
• Picking and packing stations: Identcodes verify that the right items are picked and packed into the correct order cartons.
• Dispatch and staging areas: Before loading trucks, Identcodes are scanned to validate consignments and generate transport documentation.

Production floors and manufacturing sites

Manufacturers use Identcodes to track work-in-progress and finished goods:

• Assembly lines: Identcodes on kits or subassemblies ensure that the correct components are consumed in production sequences.
• Quality control stations: Identcodes enable traceable inspection records and link test results to specific batches.
• Finished goods stores: Identcodes assigned at packaging help tie inventory to production runs and certificates.

Transport hubs and carrier points

Carriers and cross-dock facilities use Identcodes for movement and handoffs:

• Cross-dock areas: Identcodes allow rapid sorting and reloading without long-term storage, keeping goods moving through the network.
• Carrier scanning points: At pickup and delivery, carriers scan Identcodes to capture proof-of-pickup and proof-of-delivery events for tracking systems.

Retail backrooms and stores

Retailers use Identcodes to speed receiving and shelf replenishment:

• Store receiving: Store teams scan Identcodes to verify shipments and automatically update on-hand stock for POS systems.
• Returns desks: Identcodes printed on return labels or RMA paperwork help returns centers process refunds and restocking efficiently.

Returns and reverse logistics centers

Reverse logistics requires strong identification to manage item condition, repair, restock, or disposal. Identcodes ensure returned units are linked to the original sale and warranty records.

Customs and bonded warehouses

In international trade, Identcodes appear on documents and goods to simplify inspections and compliance. Inspectors may verify that the Identcode on a pallet matches customs documentation before release.

Field service and installation sites

When products require on-site installation or maintenance, Identcodes on components and spare parts let field technicians confirm they have the correct parts and update service records.

Information systems and integrations

• WMS: The warehouse management system uses Identcodes as primary keys for inventory transactions and location tracking.
• TMS: Transport management records use Identcodes to create manifests and to reconcile loads during transit.
• ERP and order management: Identcodes help link financial transactions, purchase orders, and sales orders to physical goods.
• Scanning and middleware: Data capture devices and middleware translate scanned Identcodes into the correct system updates and routing decisions.

Practical placement and labeling considerations

• Where on the packaging: Place labels on the side of pallets and on an obvious face of cartons so scanners on conveyors and forklifts can read them easily.
• Label durability: Use materials and adhesives resistant to handling, moisture, and temperature conditions expected in a given location (e.g., cold storage requires frost-resistant labels).
• Redundancy: For high-value or critical goods, consider multiple Identcode placements or mirrored RFID tags for contactless scanning.

Examples of combined use across locations

An Identcode assigned at manufacturing follows the unit to the warehouse (scanned at receiving), into storage (recorded in WMS), into a pick/pack operation (verified at packing), onto a truck (carrier scan at pickup), and finally to delivery where the recipient confirms the Identcode. This end-to-end traceability reduces disputes and speeds problem resolution.

Key takeaway

Identcodes live wherever goods are handled or recorded: physical sites such as warehouses, production lines, transport hubs, stores, and returns centers—and in IT systems that mirror those physical events. Thoughtful placement and system integration ensure Identcodes deliver reliable visibility and control across the entire supply chain.