What is a UID?

Inventory Management

UID stands for unique identification and is a required asset identification program established by the United States Department of Defense. All government-owned and government-purchased assets must carry one so that each asset can be uniquely and consistently tracked throughout its life span.

Specifications

The required appears as a square or rectangular data matrix code, which can then be scanned with a special reader.

The U.S. DOD specifies the technical and engineering requirements needed in terms of the procedures and processes that all UID assets must follow.

The program and these specifications must be applied to all assets valued at $5,000 or more, critical equipment, and controlled and consumable assets.

The details regarding exactly which items need to be marked should be outlined clearly on your government contract. In addition, you can review these UID guidelines for more specifics.

Benefits

The main benefits of assigning is an increase in efficiency and record keeping. By allowing automated scanning of UIDs, you virtually eliminate human error in entering the UID into a central database system. Since all UIDs are unique, there is less confusion and record duplication within the system.

UID ideally provides high quality data to the U.S. DOD, saving money for the department, its contractors, and ultimately, the taxpayers.

This data can be used to improve asset tracking and maintenance as well as provide ongoing historic information on critical equipment.

How to Comply

Maintenance managers required to comply with UID may want to work with a professional to ensure that labeling requirements are met correctly. UID labels must adhere and be readable on each required asset for the duration of its useful life including any rebuilds. As a result, what UID labels are made of and how they are attached must take into account the expected lifespan of the article, how harsh its operating conditions are, and what material assets are made from.

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