About traceability
Traceability is the ability to visualize the history, events and locations of different objects in a supply chain. You can achieve full transparency by using different GS1 standards combined.
GS1 Global Traceability Standard is a framework for solutions and plays an important role in the work for a sustainable ecosystem. By following the framework, the parties in the supply chain can gain access to data from different sources. This way you can get complete information about what is delivered, when, where, why and to whom.
Why traceability?
Right now, many industries need traceability due to new EU regulations as well as increased legal and market requirements. Current examples are digital product passports, food safety, reduced food waste, proof of authenticity and sustainability. The demands are also increasing from consumers and patients who want more reliable information about products and deliveries.
Read more about GS1 standards in different industries
The benefits of traceability
Efficient supply chain
Consumer and patient safety
Regulatory compliance
More benefits
-
Make targeted recalls of dangerous products
-
Find out the origin of raw materials
-
Follow the goods during transport
-
Optimize shelf availability
-
Help consumers verify the authenticity of products
-
Identify counterfeit products
-
Create internal traceability
-
Improve consumer and patient safety
-
Reduce waste
Strategic traceability framework
How is GS1 traceability used?
The GS1 Global Traceability Standard is a global framework for business processes and ensures that traceability systems are interoperable and scalable. All parties who exchange data in the supply chain can communicate transparently by following the framework.
You can initiate an implementation as soon as GS1 standards for identifying, capturing and sharing are in place. This means that each product, location and package is coded with a unique identity that can be scanned with barcodes, 2D codes and RFID from GS1. And the information is shared seamlessly in the supply chain.
Case studies
The GS1 Traceability Reference Book contains real case studies that illustrate how GS1 standards enable traceability in different industries.
Standards and implementation guidelines
Here you will find shortcuts to standards, specifications and guidelines for implementation.
How-to guides
Here you will find guides and materials on how to get started with traceability in your industry.
