Report numbers, sample IDs, batch numbers and QR codes
Each identifier answers a different question: a report number locates a document, a sample ID the material received, a batch number the supplied lot.
Follow the identifiers through the record
Start with the physical vial and its label. The compound name, stated amount and supplier batch are descriptive information. A laboratory sample ID then identifies the particular material received for testing.
The report identifier locates the certificate issued for that sample. An intake code used to find a compound in a catalogue is not the sample ID and should not be used as a substitute.
- Supplier batch: which lot the submitted material is said to belong to
- Sample identifier: which received unit or preparation was tested
- Report identifier: which analytical document you are reading
- Issue or revision information: which released document applies
What the QR code verifies
On a public CPT report, the QR code links to the certificate’s website record. Check the domain before relying on the page, then compare the report identifier, sample description, batch and results with your copy.
The existence of a working code does not independently prove a supplier’s batch attribution. The code connects the PDF to the published laboratory record. Sample provenance remains a separate part of the evidence.
Public and private reports
Public records can be found through the certificate registry or verification page. Private reports are accessed through the authorized client route. An absence from the public registry should not be treated as proof that a private report is false.
For a private document you need to verify, contact the issuing laboratory with the report identifier. Access to confidential sample details may require authorization from the client.
When two copies differ
Compare the current website status and issue information before using an older downloaded copy. If sample identifiers, results or batch details disagree, ask the laboratory which issue applies.
Do not edit an identifier on a downloaded certificate yourself. A correction belongs in the issuing laboratory’s record so the document and verification destination remain consistent.
Continue with your sample or report
Further reference
Sources and related guidance for this article:
- CPT certificate verification
Check the published record and its current status.