Difference between lot and serial numbers

Lots are typically used for products that not need to be tracked/traced at the batch level. Unlike serial numbers, lot numbers are used to identify a batch/group of product quantities. Food products and raw materials used in their production are great examples of items that are usually tracked by lots.

Serial numbers are used for products that need to be tracked/traced at the unit level. In most cases, products and components will need to be tracked by serial numbers if they require after-sales services such as repair or replacement. Depending on your use case, you may use either the manufacturer's serial numbers or your own serial numbers. Examples of products that are typically tracked by serial numbers include mobile phones, laptops, refrigerators, and other electronic items.