LPN

How license plates work

When a pallet arrives, the receiver sticks a license plate label on it, for example LP-000123, and records what it holds: 48 cases of brake pads BRK-220, lot LOT-0826. From then on, the label stands for the contents.

To put the pallet away, the operator scans LP-000123, drives to rack location C-03-01, and scans the location. The system moves all 48 cases in one transaction. If an order needs a full pallet of BRK-220, the picker scans the LPN and the whole pallet ships. If the order needs 5 cases, the picker takes them from the pallet and the LPN's contents drop to 43.

Why warehouses use LPNs

License plates turn many scans into one, and they keep contents tied to a physical container.

• Faster moves: one scan relocates a whole pallet instead of dozens of item scans.
• Fewer errors: the system knows what is on the pallet, so nobody re-keys quantities.
• Whole-pallet picking: an order for a full pallet can be allocated to a specific LPN.
• Traceability: holds and recalls can target one pallet rather than a whole SKU.
• Mixed pallets: one LPN can carry several SKUs or lots, and the system tracks each line.

LPN vs SSCC

An LPN is an internal ID; any format works as long as it is unique in your warehouse. An SSCC is a GS1 standard, 18-digit code for a logistics unit that travels between companies, printed on a GS1-128 label. When a supplier sends a pallet with an SSCC, many warehouses simply use that SSCC as the LPN. When you ship a pallet to a retailer who requires GS1 labels, you print an SSCC for it.

Common LPN mistakes

License plates only help if the contents record stays true.

• Breaking down a pallet without recording which cases left, so the LPN still claims 48.
• Reusing printed labels, which creates two containers with the same identity.
• Placing labels where a forklift or stretch wrap hides them.
• Putting LPNs on every tote and case when simple bin stock would do, adding scans with no benefit.

How NextStock handles license plates

In NextStock, the LPN is part of how stock is identified, alongside location, SKU, owner, lot and status. Receiving captures or assigns LPNs, a floor move of the plate moves its contents, allocation can reserve a whole LPN, and holds can target one plate. Mixed pallets are supported, and pallet labels print directly to thermal printers. See license plate tracking and label printing.