Large/Global Supplier

Unique Identification of parts, components or assets

1) Allocate barcode numbers (assigned by GS1) to any part, component or asset

Barcode number types to use

Orderable parts, component  - Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) 
Assets, if accompanied with serialisation – GTIN
Assets - Global Individual Asset Identifiers (GIAIs)

2) Once allocated, the barcode numbers can be encoded into GS1 barcode formats, and possibly RFID tags

Marking with barcodes and/or RFID tags

1) Decide which GS1 barcode suits your application, such as GS1 Data Matrix

2) Encode pre-assigned GS1 barcode numbers, such as a GTIN, into the GS1 barcode

3) Encode additional production data such as Batch, Serialisation or Date of Manufacture, into the GS1 barcode

4) Utilise GS1 Barcode Check, to ensure barcodes scan correctly and meet GS1 specifications, avoiding issues early on

5) Ensure your solution providers are working to GS1 barcode standards, avoiding the use of proprietary formats which do not align with Project i-TRACE requirements. Read more

6) Mark the part, component or asset with the GS1 barcode in an appropriate marking technique such as laser-etching or printed label application

Preparing, sharing and maintaining Material Master Data

The ARA calls for the industry to digitalise Material Master Data and use NPC to capture and share critical data across the rail supply chain - Read more