Glossary

A barcode is a machine-readable code used to uniquely identify products, packages, or shipping units. It consists of bars and spaces of varying widths in which information is encoded according to a standardized method.

Barcodes are used in logistics for the fast and error-free capture of identification data. They enable the automatic assignment of goods and shipments and form the basis for end-to-end material flow and warehouse processes. Barcodes can be scanned by stationary or mobile barcode scanners and transmitted directly to higher-level IT systems.

Practical example:

In the goods receiving area, the barcode on a package is automatically scanned and linked to the measurement data recorded by the DWS system.

See also: Barcode scanner, DWS, freight data, GS1, identification, master data entry, Track & Trace, goods receiving

A barcode scanner is an optical scanning device used to read and decode barcodes. It converts the information contained in the barcode into digital data and makes it available for further processing.

Depending on the model, barcode scanners use laser, CCD, or camera technology and can be used in stationary or mobile applications. In logistics, they quickly and reliably capture identification data for products, packages, and loading units. The scanned information is transmitted directly to warehouse management, transportation management, or ERP systems and linked to other master data.

Practical example:

In the goods receiving area, a stationary barcode scanner reads the code on a package and transfers the identification data to the DWS system.

See also: Barcode, DWS, freight data, GS1, identification, master data entry, Track & Trace, goods receiving

Big Data encompasses large volumes of structured and unstructured data that, due to their volume, velocity, or variety, can only be processed to a limited extent using conventional methods. It refers to technologies and processes for storing, processing, and analyzing complex data sets.

In logistics, large volumes of data are generated, for example, by sensors, WMS systems, transportation systems, warehouse management, and automated equipment. Through modern analytical methods, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, this data can be used to identify patterns, optimize processes, and make informed decisions. Big Data lays the foundation for data-driven logistics, transparent supply chains, and predictive process control.

Practical example:

A logistics company analyzes large volumes of movement, measurement, and transport data to improve capacity utilization and identify bottlenecks in the material flow at an early stage.

See also: Data Analysis, Data Integrity, Digitalization, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Predictive Analytics, Sensor Technology, Supply Chain Visibility

Billing purposes refer to the use of measurement and master data for the legally compliant calculation and billing of logistics services. This is based on precise and traceable information, such as the dimensions, weight, or volume of a shipment.

For billing purposes, the required data is often automatically captured using DWS systems and transmitted to transport management, ERP, or merchandise management systems. If the measurement values are part of the freight cost calculation, calibratable measurement systems are used, depending on the specific application. This ensures high data quality, transparency, and legal certainty in the billing process.

Practical example:

Before shipment, the dimensions and weight of a package are automatically recorded so that freight costs can be calculated correctly and transparently.

See also: Dimension recording, DWS, Calibration capability, Freight billing, Freight data, Weight recording, Master data entry, Volume weight

Blockchain is a decentralized database technology in which information is stored in chronologically linked and cryptographically secured data blocks. It enables the transparent, traceable, and virtually immutable recording of transactions and events.

In logistics, blockchain is used to make supply chains more transparent and to support the secure exchange of information between different companies. It facilitates the traceability of goods, improves data integrity, and creates a trustworthy foundation for shared business processes.

Practical example:

When a shipment is transported, all handoffs and status changes are documented in a blockchain, ensuring that the entire transport route is fully traceable.

See also: Data exchange, data integrity, freight data, GS1, master data capture, supply chain management (SCM), track & trace, traceability