Auto buyers usually want every pack and pallet labelled with the part number, quantity, lot or batch, supplier code and date, in both text and barcodes. Many follow industry label formats, such as the Global Transport Label used across Europe, North America and Japan, or the older Odette and AIAG labels.
Your customer's supplier manual sets the exact rules. Get it before production starts and send it to your supplier with the order.
What a label usually shows
- Customer part number, and the supplier's part number if different.
- Quantity in the pack.
- Lot or batch number, linked to the production and test records.
- Supplier code assigned by the customer.
- Serial number of the pack, unique for each label.
- Production or packing date.
- Engineering change level of the part, where the customer asks for it.
- Country of origin, such as "Made in India".
Label formats
The Global Transport Label was developed jointly by auto industry bodies in Europe, North America and Japan. In Germany it is published as VDA 4994. Older Odette labels and the AIAG B-10 label are still in use with some customers.
Most formats use Code 128 linear barcodes or two-dimensional codes, such as DataMatrix or QR. The data fields carry standard identifiers, so a scanner knows which field is the part number and which is the quantity.
Marking on the part
Some parts must carry marks on the part itself. These can be a part number, a date code, a cavity or heat number, or a two-dimensional code made by laser or dot peen. Safety parts often need traceability back to the material heat.
Fasteners carry grade and maker's marks on the head, as explained in fastener grades and standards.
Country of origin
Most importing countries require goods or their packaging to show where they were made. The rules differ on whether the part, the inner box or the carton must be marked. Confirm the rule for your product with your customs broker.
Make sure the origin on the label matches the certificate of origin and the invoice. A mismatch can delay clearance or affect any trade preference you claim.
Making it work with an Indian supplier
- Send the customer's label specification and a sample label file at order stage.
- Check that the supplier has a label printer and barcode software that can print the format.
- Scan sample labels with the same type of scanner your customer uses before production.
- Check labels during the pre-shipment inspection, including a scan test.
- Agree whether the supplier must also send electronic shipping notices, and in which format.
Next step
We set up labelling with your supplier, test the barcodes and check every pallet at loading. Book a free sourcing review to go through your customer's requirements.