Lot control is an inventory management process that assigns a lot number (Lot ID) to each batch of products as it enters the warehouse, so every unit can be traced to its batch, receiving date, and expiration date.
For ecommerce brands that sell perishable, serialized, or highly regulated products, lot control speeds up recalls, keeps expiring stock from shipping, and separates batches that differ in color or ingredients.
Fulex operates an FDA Certified Warehouse, is a USDA Certified Organic Handler, and tracks lots, stock rotation, and expiration dates in its cloud-based WMS.
Why is Lot Control Important?
Lot control is important to companies that ship perishable products, serialized products, or any other highly regulated items. It also helps with:
- Product Recalls
- Products with Expiration Dates
- Product Differentiation
Products can be recalled for a number of reasons. If products are recalled, it’s very easy to quickly identify the specific products that need to be pulled from the shelves by their Lot control IDs.
Products that are nearing their expiration date can be identified and disposed from inventory before being sold to customers.
If you use multiple manufacturers or have slight variations between batches such as a different color dye or ingredient, the Lot control number can help identify specific products.
What is the best way to track lots?
Having a transparent view of your inventory in the warehouse makes running your ecommerce business a lot easier. Fulex has a cloud-based WMS system that provides lot control functionality. Having a WMS with lot control helps your business lower its costs and streamline operations processes. You have the option to organize your inventory process by the First in First Out (FIFO) or Last in First Out (LIFO). You also have the ability to setup real time alerts for products that may be expiring soon.
Lot Control FAQs
What is the difference between lot tracking and serial tracking?
Lot tracking groups units from the same batch under one lot number. Serial tracking assigns a unique number to each unit.
How does lot control help with product recalls?
The lot number identifies exactly which units came from the affected batch, so they can be pulled while unaffected stock keeps shipping.
Which products need lot control?
Perishable, serialized, and highly regulated items, plus products with expiration dates or batch-to-batch differences in color or ingredients.
Learn more about Fulex’s inventory management services
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