Traceability · Odoo glossary
Lot Numbers
Learn how lot numbers identify product batches, how Odoo tracks their movements, and why batch traceability differs from individual serial-number tracking.
Definition
In general ERP practice
A lot number identifies a group or batch of items sharing a relevant origin or production history. Several units can belong to the same lot, allowing a business to investigate which receipts, production runs or deliveries involved that batch.
A lot is not the product identifier itself. A product may have many lots over time, while one lot can cover multiple physical units of that product.
In Odoo
Odoo Inventory supports tracking by lots after Lots & Serial Numbers is enabled and the product is configured to use By Lots. Lot numbers are assigned to received or manufactured quantities and selected during outgoing operations.
This records the relationship between the batch and its inventory movements. Lots support tracing a group of items, including investigations associated with recalls or expiration dates when those features are configured. Existing stock needs lot assignment when tracking is introduced.
Batch identity and quantity
Product
A particular item in the product catalogue.
Lot
A defined batch of that product.
Quantity
The number of units from the batch at a location or in a movement.
Illustrative batch investigation
A supplier delivers 200 units under batch B-104. A later quality issue can be investigated using the movements associated with B-104. This identifies the affected group; it does not distinguish one unit from another within the batch.
Official Odoo documentation
The Odoo-specific explanation above is based on the documentation for Odoo 19. Features and workflows can differ in other versions.
Related glossary terms
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