Why are bar codes unique?

Answer 1

Bar codes are unique because for a bar code system to be effective, a given barcode can be associated with only product line i.e 7oz beans made by X. Assigning a certain bar code to two or more product groups creates can cause inventory errors , replenishment failures cost charge error . example - A hair spray made by X has a unique code. The item is Fine/firm hold. If the same BC is used on X's Firm Hold Coloured hair variant then both would scan. However, it would cause issues as to which was actually going through a scanner point, and and which wasn't. Inventory would fail as the data file used to hold the product information would read everything as the first product in the list - this will show that the store was selling more on one line that it had in inventory - Such errors can and do occur and actions normally are to remove one of the product from inventory (off the shelf) and as an action to correct over lay a new paper barcode with the correct sequence on it, return these back for sale. very time consuming, labour intensive and costly