A single standard for product identification: how to reduce errors and time loss in trade

Implementing a unified product identification standard is the foundation of retail automation. It helps minimize the impact of the “human factor” and significantly speeds up all warehouse and checkout operations. In the Torgsoft software, this standard is implemented through a system of barcodes and item codes.

Here is a detailed overview of how it works and how exactly it helps avoid errors and save time:

What is a unified identification standard in Torgsoft

A unified standard means that each product unit (SKU) has a unique identifier that makes it possible to instantly distinguish it from others. Torgsoft uses the following identification methods:

• Manufacturer barcode. Most products already have a factory barcode (usually EAN-13), which is unique. Using this code makes it possible to avoid relabeling.

• Internal barcode. For unlabeled goods, weighed goods, or custom sets, the software automatically generates a unique internal barcode (usually starting with the prefix 29 or another configured one).

• Item code. A unique alphanumeric code that can also be used for search, but serves as a supporting identifier compared to the barcode.

How does this reduce errors?

• Eliminating sorting mistakes. The most common error when selecting goods manually is selling the wrong size or color. In Torgsoft, each size and color of clothing or footwear has its own separate unique barcode. When scanning a product, the salesperson physically cannot select another model, which guarantees accurate stock balances.

• Duplicate control. The software has settings that prohibit creating product cards with identical barcodes or item codes. This prevents confusion when different products are listed under the same code.

• Accuracy at the checkout. The salesperson does not enter the price or name manually. Scanning the code automatically retrieves the correct price, including discounts, which eliminates accidental calculation errors or intentional abuse.

• Uniqueness of weighed goods. For weighed goods, a special barcode format is used, usually with the prefix 25 or 21, which contains the product code and its weight. This allows the checkout system to automatically recognize not only the product, but also its exact weight and value received from the scales.

How does this reduce time loss?

• Instant search and sale. Scanning a barcode takes a fraction of a second, while searching for a product by name in a list or category tree takes much longer. This speeds up customer service and reduces queues.

• Fast goods receipt:

• When scanning an already known product, the software automatically opens its product card, and all that remains is to enter the quantity.

• Using data collection terminals (DCT) or importing invoices from Excel makes it possible to post hundreds of items in a matter of minutes instead of hours of manual entry.

• Faster inventory counting. Using a scanner or DCT makes it possible to perform stocktaking without stopping store operations or much faster than with the “paper” method. The employee simply scans everything in sequence, and the software compares the actual quantity with the recorded quantity automatically.

Practical steps for implementation

1. Labeling. If a product does not have a factory barcode, print labels using a label printer. For small goods, labels sized 30x20 mm or 40x25 mm are used.

2. Equipment setup. Connect a barcode scanner. Make sure it is configured to send the Enter symbol after reading the code so that the product is added to the receipt automatically.

3. Database import. If you have many products (1000–2000+), do not enter them manually. Use the import function from Excel to upload names, item codes, barcodes, and prices in bulk.

4. Code generation. In Torgsoft settings, enable automatic barcode generation for new products so that the system itself creates unique codes for unlabeled items.

Using a unified standard turns a chaotic warehouse into an organized system where every product unit is accounted for, easy to find, and quick to sell.