Batch Code vs Barcode on Cosmetics

Tell the difference between a cosmetic batch code, barcode, SKU, shade number, and product reference before using a checker.

A barcode mistake can make a valid product look unsupported. This page separates the strings printed for retail scanning from the smaller codes used for production lots.

Next step

Barcode is usually long and scannable.
Batch code is shorter and identifies production.
Shade, SKU, and volume are not lot codes.

Next step

Run the checker
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Barcode

The barcode identifies the product sold at retail. It is usually a long number and not useful for production-date decoding.

Batch code

The batch code is normally shorter, printed or embossed on box, bottle, tube, label edge, or jar base.

What to enter

Choose the brand and enter the shortest complete production-like string, preserving letters and leading zeroes.

Common questions

Should I enter the barcode?

No. Enter the batch or lot code, not the retail barcode.