DRAP has confirmed that 2D barcoding and serialization under S.R.O. 963(I)/2026 are mandatory for registered medicines manufactured locally or imported from October 9, 2026. Stock manufactured or imported before that date is exempt and can still be distributed and sold. (Some earlier reports cited October 19.)
Manufacturers and importers are responsible for printing the codes. But distributors are the ones who handle those packs every day: receiving them from principals, storing them, and dispatching them to pharmacies and hospitals. Over the coming months, distributors will start receiving serialized stock, and principals will increasingly expect scan-level records.
This guide explains what a GS1 DataMatrix barcode contains, what DRAP serialization means for distributors, and how to scan and track it in ERPNext.
Key Takeaways
DRAP's barcode and serialization requirements apply to covered medicines manufactured from October 9, 2026, under S.R.O. 963(I)/2026.
Each pack carries a GS1 DataMatrix code with four pieces of data: GTIN, batch number, expiry date and a unique serial number.
The scope covers allopathic human and veterinary medicines, including biologicals, but not nutraceuticals, alternative medicines or medical devices.
Scanning the DataMatrix at receiving captures batch and expiry automatically, removing typing errors.
Distributors will handle both serialized and older non-serialized stock during the transition, so systems must support both.
What Is DRAP Serialization?
Serialization means giving every individual saleable pack its own unique identity. Until now, medicines were identified by product and batch. Thousands of packs in the same batch looked identical in any record.
With serialization, each pack gets a randomly generated serial number. Combined with the product code, batch and expiry, that serial number makes every pack traceable, from the factory to the pharmacy shelf.
DRAP finalized the framework through S.R.O. 963(I)/2026, amending the Drugs Labelling and Packing Rules, 1978. The key requirements:
Requirement | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
2D barcode on secondary packaging | GS1 DataMatrix with GTIN, batch, expiry and serial number | Medicines manufactured from October 19, 2026 |
Serialization | Unique random serial number on each saleable pack | Same as above |
SSCC on tertiary packaging | GS1-128 barcode for cartons and shipping units | Phased over six years |
Who prints the codes? Manufacturers and importers. If imported medicines aren't serialized in their country of origin, barcodes can be printed at a local facility with DRAP approval.
What's covered? Allopathic medicines, including biologicals, for human and veterinary use. Nutraceuticals, alternative medicines, medical devices, medical gases and radiopharmaceuticals are outside this scope.
Why does it matter? Pakistan has long struggled with counterfeit, smuggled and substandard medicines. Serialization lets regulators, the supply chain and even patients verify that a pack is genuine. Consumers will be able to scan the code with a smartphone to check authenticity, expiry and official price.
S.R.O. 963(I)/2026 at a Glance
Item | Detail |
|---|---|
Instrument | S.R.O. 963(I)/2026, amending the Drugs (Labelling and Packing) Rules, 1978 |
Effective | Registered medicines manufactured locally or imported from October 9, 2026 |
Barcode | GS1 DataMatrix on secondary packaging |
Data encoded | GTIN, batch number, expiry date, unique serial number |
Older stock | Batches manufactured before October 9, 2026 are exempt and can still be sold |
Responsible for printing | Manufacturers and importers |
What's Inside a GS1 DataMatrix Barcode?
A GS1 DataMatrix is a small square 2D barcode that holds several pieces of information in one code. Each piece is identified by a short number called an Application Identifier (AI).
AI | Data | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
(01) | GTIN (product code) | 14 digits, fixed | 08961234567890 |
(17) | Expiry date | YYMMDD, fixed | 271231 = 31 Dec 2027 |
(10) | Batch or lot number | Up to 20 characters | B2610A |
(21) | Serial number | Up to 20 characters | 7HX4K29QPL81 |
When printed in human-readable form below the code, it looks like this:
(01) 08961234567890 (17) 271231 (10) B2610A (21) 7HX4K29QPL81
A few technical points that matter when you build scanning into your system:
GTIN identifies the product and pack size. Each strength and pack size has its own GTIN.
Batch and serial are variable length, so the barcode uses a hidden separator character (called FNC1 or "GS") to mark where they end. Your scanner and software must handle this correctly, or batch and serial numbers get merged.
Expiry is YYMMDD. A day of "00" means the end of that month.
Order can vary. Fixed-length fields usually come first, but software should read fields by their AI, not by position.
What DRAP Serialization Means for Distributors
The legal obligation to print serialized barcodes sits with manufacturers and importers. Distributors aren't currently required to print anything. But serialization changes daily operations in several ways:
Principals will expect better data. Manufacturers investing in serialization will want to know where their serialized packs go. Expect requests for batch and serial-level dispatch records.
Recalls get more precise. With serial data, a recall can target exact packs, not just whole batches. Distributors with scan records can respond in minutes.
Counterfeit risk becomes visible. Packs with invalid, duplicate or missing codes will stand out. Scanning at receiving helps you catch suspicious stock before it enters your warehouse.
Pharmacies will ask questions. As consumers start scanning packs, pharmacies will expect distributors to supply only properly coded stock.
Future reporting is likely. DRAP's framework is designed for supply chain traceability, and further data-sharing requirements may follow. Distributors who already capture scan data will adapt far more easily.
You'll manage mixed stock. Medicines manufactured before October 19 won't carry serial numbers, and they'll remain in the supply chain until they're sold or expire. Your system must handle both serialized and non-serialized stock side by side, so follow DRAP notifications on how older stock is treated.
How to Prepare Your Distribution Operation
1. Upgrade to 2D barcode scanners
Traditional laser scanners read only 1D (linear) barcodes. You'll need 2D imaging scanners at receiving and dispatch points, or mobile devices with camera-based scanning. Make sure the scanner is configured to transmit the GS separator character, which many scanners drop by default.
2. Record GTINs against your items
Map each product's GTIN to the matching item in your system. Different pack sizes have different GTINs, so one product may have several.
3. Decide your tracking level
Not every distributor needs to record every serial number from day one. Options include:
Tracking level | What you record | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Batch level | GTIN, batch, expiry via scan | Most distributors starting out |
Serial at dispatch | Serials scanned when sold to customers | Distributors whose principals want pack-level records |
Full serial tracking | Serials at receiving, transfer and dispatch | High-value products, hospitals, cold-chain items |
Start with batch-level scanning and move to serial tracking as principal or regulatory requirements become clear.
4. Scan at receiving
Scanning at goods receipt reads batch and expiry directly from the pack, eliminating typing mistakes and catching packs with damaged or invalid codes.
5. Scan at dispatch
Scanning at dispatch confirms the right product and batch goes to the right customer, and builds the record you need for recalls and principal reports.
6. Train your warehouse team
Show staff how to scan, what to do with unreadable codes, and how to quarantine suspicious packs.
7. Follow DRAP notifications closely
Implementation details may continue to evolve. Keep your system flexible so it can adapt.
How ERPNext Handles GS1 DataMatrix Scanning
ERPNext already has the building blocks for serialized pharma distribution, and the GS1 parsing layer can be added through configuration and a small custom app.
Requirement | How ERPNext handles it |
|---|---|
GTIN mapping | Item barcode table holds one or more GTINs per item |
Batch and expiry | Built-in batch management with manufacturing and expiry dates |
Serial numbers | Serial number tracking per item, with full movement history |
Barcode scanning | Scan fields on purchase receipts, delivery notes, invoices and stock entries |
GS1 parsing | Custom parser reads AIs (01), (17), (10) and (21) and fills item, batch, expiry and serial automatically |
FEFO dispatch | Batch selection by earliest expiry |
Quarantine | Separate warehouse for suspicious, damaged or unreadable packs |
Recall | Reports showing which customers received a specific batch or serial |
Mixed stock | Items can carry serialized and non-serialized stock during the transition |
What happens when a pack is scanned in ERPNext
The warehouse user scans the DataMatrix on a purchase receipt or delivery note.
The parser reads the GTIN and finds the matching item.
It reads the batch and expiry, and creates the batch if it's new (on receipt) or selects it (on dispatch).
If serial tracking is enabled, it records the serial number against the item and batch.
Quantity updates automatically with each scan.
The result: no typing, no mistakes, and a complete record of which batch, and optionally which pack, went to which customer.
For the wider picture of batch control, FEFO, licences and recalls, read our guide to pharma distribution software in Pakistan.
Common Scanning Problems and How to Avoid Them
Batch and serial numbers run together. The scanner isn't sending the GS separator. Reconfigure the scanner or use one that supports GS1 output.
Expiry shows the wrong date. The software is reading YYMMDD incorrectly or not handling "00" as month-end.
Item not found. The GTIN hasn't been mapped to the item. Add the GTIN to the item's barcode list.
Duplicate serial numbers. The same pack scanned twice, or a possible counterfeit. Flag and investigate before accepting.
Old stock with no DataMatrix. Pre-October 19 stock. Allow manual batch selection for these items during the transition.
Checklist: Is Your Distribution Business Serialization-Ready?
2D scanners or camera scanning at receiving and dispatch
GTINs mapped to every item and pack size
Batch and expiry tracking active on all medicine items
GS1 parsing that reads GTIN, batch, expiry and serial
Decision made on batch-level or serial-level tracking
Quarantine process for unreadable or suspicious packs
Ability to handle serialized and non-serialized stock together
Recall reports by batch and serial number
Staff trained on scanning and exceptions
Checking Medicine Barcodes: The DRAP Barcode Scanner App
DRAP has an official DRAP Barcode Scanner app for Android. Consumers can scan the 2D barcode on a medicine pack to see basic product information, and manufacturers can verify product, batch, serial and GS1 details against DRAP’s database. DRAP has also indicated a wider verification facility for pharmacists and stores is coming, so check DRAP’s official announcements for the latest version.
For distributors, scanning inside your ERP goes further: it records every pack you receive and dispatch against your stock and customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does DRAP serialization start?
DRAP has confirmed that 2D barcoding and serialization are mandatory for registered medicines manufactured locally or imported from October 9, 2026. Medicines manufactured before that date are exempt.
What is a GS1 DataMatrix?
It's a square 2D barcode that encodes several data fields using GS1 Application Identifiers. For DRAP, it contains the product GTIN, batch number, expiry date and a unique serial number.
Do distributors have to print DRAP barcodes?
No. Printing is the responsibility of manufacturers and importers. Distributors should prepare to scan and record serialized packs, as principals and the track and trace system are likely to require this data over time.
Which products are covered by DRAP serialization?
Allopathic medicines, including biologicals, for human and veterinary use. Nutraceuticals, alternative medicines, medical devices, medical gases and radiopharmaceuticals are outside the current scope.
Can my existing barcode scanner read GS1 DataMatrix?
Only if it's a 2D imaging scanner. Older laser scanners read 1D barcodes only. The scanner should also be configured to transmit the GS separator correctly.
Can ERPNext read GS1 DataMatrix barcodes?
Yes. ERPNext supports barcode scanning, batches and serial numbers, and a GS1 parser can be added to read the GTIN, batch, expiry and serial automatically from each scan.
What happens to medicines manufactured before October 19?
Older stock won't carry serial numbers. Distributors will handle both types during the transition, so follow DRAP notifications on how pre-deadline stock should be treated.
Get Serialization-Ready with Bizloom ERP
Bizloom ERP helps pharma distributors in Pakistan prepare for DRAP track and trace with ERPNext. We can:
Set up batch, expiry and serial tracking for your medicine items
Map GTINs and configure GS1 DataMatrix scanning at receiving and dispatch
Build quarantine, recall and principal reporting workflows
Support mixed serialized and non-serialized stock during the transition
Integrate FBR digital invoicing on the same system
Host it securely with managed ERP hosting
Explore our ERP for Distribution and ERP for Healthcare solutions, or read how we approach inventory management for wholesalers and distributors.
Want to see GS1 scanning in action? Book a Free ERP Assessment with Bizloom ERP and we'll show you how DataMatrix scanning would work in your warehouse.