Inventory Lot Tracking

Updated December 09, 2025 23:17

Lot Tracking is the process of managing and tracking specific batches of products—known as "lots"—with the same production or expiration details. This involves assigning a unique identifier, or lot number, to each batch and recording information like production date, expiration date, and distribution. With ShipStation’s inventory lot tracking, you can easily stay organized and compliant with industry standards.

Benefits of Lot Tracking:

Traceability: If a product issue exists, you can trace it back to a specific lot.
Expiration control: Track products that expire and ensure the oldest stock gets used first.
Quality control: Monitor issues tied to specific production batches.
Regulatory compliance: Required in industries with strict standards.

Create Lot Tracking

Create lots manually for individual products or upload them in bulk using a CSV file.

Create Lots with a CSV Import

To import your CSV file:

Go to the Products tab, then click the Inventory.
Click Import.
Click Select CSV file or drag and drop your file to upload.
Select the warehouse from the dropdown to apply the import.

Optional: You can select or update an import template for faster future CSV imports.
Click Upload & Preview.
Map the fields in your CSV to the system’s lot fields.
Click Start Import.

Create Manually

To create an individual lot manually:

Go to the Products tab, then click the Inventory.
Select the product to open the Product Details.
Click the Inventory tab.
Click Add Stock to Location.
Add information into the fields, including the Lot ID and Expiration Date.
Click Add Stock.

Manage Lot Tracking

Once your lots are created, you can manage them by assigning lots to orders, picking products by lot, and initiating recalls when needed.

Assign Lot to an Order

To assign a lot to an order:

Go to the Orders tab.
Select the order to open the Shipment Details.
Click Shipment Actions > Allocate Shipment > Allocate.

Once complete, the lot will be assigned to the order.

Pick an Order with a Lot

To pick an order with a lot:

Go to the Orders tab.
Select the order to open the Shipment Details.
Click Print then choose Pick List.

Your PDF will be saved and include lots for each SKU.