Variable Data Printing (VDP): Serialization, QR Codes, Barcodes

Last updated: 2026-01-03

Variable Data Printing (VDP) means each label can be unique: serial numbers, batch/lot codes, QR codes, barcodes, expiry dates, or track-and-trace IDs. It’s powerful — and easy to mess up if you don’t control the data and QA.

Common VDP use cases

• Lot/batch codes for production tracking
• Sequential numbering for assets and equipment
• QR codes for instructions, authentication, or reorder links
• Barcodes for inventory and logistics

What you need to supply (minimum)

• Data file: CSV is the usual choice (columns = fields, rows = labels).
• Spec: label size, material, finish, and how it’s dispensed (roll/sheet).
• Code type: QR vs Code 128 vs EAN/UPC, etc.
• Placement rules: where codes must sit, any quiet-zone requirements, and minimum size.

Practical QA (how we avoid bad runs)

Step	What we check
Proof	Layout, spacing, and readability at the actual label size
Data validation	Row count, duplicates, formatting errors (ex: leading zeros)
Scan test	Representative samples scanned with your expected device/app

Two mistakes that break VDP

• Leading zeros get lost: spreadsheets love to “help.” If you need leading zeros, treat the column as text.
• Codes are too small: barcodes need space and contrast. Test at final size.

Note: We can print to your spec, but we don’t provide legal/regulatory advice. If you’re in a regulated space, use a compliance workflow: Regulatory labeling for SMBs.