Serial numbers management does not only describe the simple way of storing serial numbers with reference to individual materials. It also involves registering serial numbers or serial number ranges at incoming goods based on individual deliveries (traceability from the supplier) and registering them at outgoing goods based on individual recipients (proof of use for customer). Using empty fields (e.g. best before date as serial number field) is usually not sufficient, it would then no longer be possible to manage series with a best before date.