Traceability is useful only when a finished item can be connected to the material and records that matter. A certificate stored in purchasing does not create traceability by itself.
Choose the right traceable unit
Depending on the process, identity may follow a heat, coil, sheet, resin lot, batch or individual serial number. The level should reflect product risk and the investigation a customer may need.
Plan for identity transfer
Material markings can disappear when stock is cut, mixed or moved. Travellers, controlled containers, tags or digital records should transfer the original identity before that happens.
Control splits and combinations
When one lot becomes several jobs—or several inputs become one assembly—the record should show the relationship. Rework and replacement material need the same discipline.
Test the chain in both directions
Select a product on the floor and trace it back to receiving. Then select a material record and locate the affected work. If either direction fails, the system cannot yet support a fast, reliable response.