Electronic Product Codes (EPCs) - Explained
What are Electronic Product Codes?
Written by J. Mance Gordon
Updated at April 21st, 2024
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What is an Electronic Product Code?
An Electronic Product Code (EPC) is a numerical code used to identify different commodities. An EPC is basically an identifier but it has many more functions. For instance, an electronic product code contains numbers that can be used to track different information about the products, such as manufacturing date, products origin, and destination. An electronic product code is very similar to a bar code but with greater utility.
How Does an Electronic Product Code Work?
An EPC works on the principle of a radio frequency tag (RFID), which is used to send and receive information when a reader is applied to it. However, an EPC and RFID are not identical. The EPC is utilized in supply chain management to efficiently control the flow of inventory. An EPC uses RFID technology to enhance and improve visibility level in supply chain management. EPCs offer many benefits to customers, such as tracking inventory records and helping to deliver the right goods to customers