Glossary · Warehouse organisation
What is a batch?
The supplier calls: batch B4471 is defective. Now only one question matters – where is it, and who received any of it? Here you’ll learn what a batch is, when you have to record it and how a recall runs without panic.
In brief
A batch – also called a lot – is the quantity of a product that was manufactured or filled in one run under the same conditions. All units of a batch carry the same batch number. It lets you trace where a product came from and where it went – crucial for recalls and for products with an expiry date.
Batch: definition
When a product is manufactured in one run – from the same raw materials, on the same line, on the same day – all the units produced form one batch. If there is a problem with a raw material or a machine, it affects exactly this batch, not the entire production.
For you in the store, this means: one item can be in stock in several batches at the same time, each with its own number, its own expiry date and often its own purchase price. That is why the expiry date belongs to the batch, not to the item.
Batch number and serial number
| Number | Identifies | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Item number / GTIN | The product | “Cannulas 0.6 mm, pack of 100” |
| Batch number | A production quantity | All packs from run B4471 |
| Serial number | A single unit | Exactly this one pack or this one device |
On packaging, the batch is usually shown after “LOT”, “Batch” or the German “Ch.-B.”, often also in the Data Matrix code.
Where batches must be recorded
- Medicines: batch and expiry date are printed on every pack; prescription medicines also carry a serial number.
- Medical devices: under the EU Medical Device Regulation, many products must be traceable, for example via the UDI.
- Food: businesses must be able to show whom they obtained goods from and whom they supplied (Art. 18 Regulation (EC) No 178/2002).
- Construction chemicals, adhesives and sealants: for warranty claims and complaints, the batch is often the only proof.
Note: Which obligations apply to you specifically depends on your industry and role. This is an overview, not legal advice.
Example: recall at a medical practice
The practice tracks consumables by batch. Instead of searching every cabinet, one query answers the questions in minutes:
- Stock of B4471 in the store, bin C2
3 packs - Issued to treatment room 2
1 pack - Already used according to withdrawals
1 pack - Other batches of the same item
A9120, C0388 not affected
The four remaining packs are blocked and sent back, and the replacement delivery is on its way. Because the other batches are unaffected, no treatment room runs short of supplies.
4 common mistakes with batches
- Only noting the batch at goods receipt. Traceability only exists once every withdrawal and issue also names the batch.
- Maintaining the expiry date on the item. Two deliveries have two dates. It belongs to the batch.
- Mixing batches. If you tip new stock into an opened box, you lose the assignment.
- Tracking everything by batch. Screws don’t need a batch. Only record it where it is necessary for practical or legal reasons.
Batches with Scanwiz
From the Growth plan, you can set up items as batch items in Scanwiz. Each delivery is booked in with batch number, expiry date, quantity, supplier and purchase price. Withdrawals and issues to people always run batch-specific, and a batch can be in several storage slots. If it comes to it, Scanwiz shows where a batch is and who received any of it.
- Batch number, expiry date, supplier and price per batch
- Withdrawal and assignment always batch-specific
- Remaining shelf life with traffic light and warnings before expiry
- Batch reports, export as Excel, CSV and PDF
Learn more: Batch management with Scanwiz · Guide Batch management in practices, labs and production.
Frequently asked questions about batches
What is a batch?
The quantity of a product manufactured in one run under the same conditions. All units carry the same batch number.
What is the difference between a batch number and a serial number?
The batch number identifies an entire production quantity, the serial number a single unit.
What does LOT mean on packaging?
LOT is the international marking for the batch or lot number. It is often shown next to the expiry date.
When do I have to record batches?
Mainly for medicines, medical devices and food, where traceability is mandatory. For many other products it is voluntary, but very helpful for recalls and complaints.
Sources & methodology
- Wikipedia: Batch production – batch, lot and batch number. en.wikipedia.org, accessed 10 Nov 2026.
- Regulation (EC) No 178/2002, Art. 18 – traceability of food.
- Regulation (EU) 2017/745 on medical devices – UDI and traceability.
- Example: sample practice, created by Scanwiz.
Updated November 2026 · Scanwiz editorial team · not legal advice
Over 250 customers already trust Scanwiz
From the glossary to your warehouse – Scanwiz does the rest.
Minimum stock, stocktakes, inspection intervals and batches run automatically in Scanwiz as part of your daily work. Try it free for 14 days with your whole team – no credit card required. Or let us show you everything in a personal demo.
