GRAI Codes : Why They Matter and How EDI Connector Simplifies Tracking for Retail Supply Chains

In modern retail logistics, the ability to track assets accurately and efficiently is more important than ever. With supermarkets and distribution networks relying on reusable transport items like crates and containers, technologies that standardize identification and tracking are essential.

One of the most widely adopted standards in Europe for identifying reusable assets is the GRAI code. But what exactly is a GRAI code — and why do major retailers such as Delhaize, Carrefour, and others require their suppliers to use them?

Let’s break it down.

What Are GRAI Codes?

GRAI stands for Global Returnable Asset Identifier, a GS1 standard used to uniquely identify reusable transport items such as:

• Euro Pool crates

• Bins

• Containers

• Trolleys

• Roll cages

• Pallet boxes

  
  

A GRAI code can be printed in barcode format or encoded in RFID tags. It contains:

• A GS1 company prefix

• An asset type

• A unique serial number

  
  

This combination makes it possible to track each individual crate or container throughout its entire lifecycle — from supplier to retailer and back through the reverse-logistics cycle.

Where Do GRAI Codes Come From?

GRAI codes are part of the GS1 global identification system, the same organization that created barcodes used worldwide.

GS1 created GRAI to solve the growing challenge of:

• Tracking reusable assets

• Reducing loss and shrinkage

• Improving visibility in supply chains

• Standardizing communication between businesses

  
  

Because these assets circulate across companies, warehouses, and transporters, a universal identification system ensures everyone speaks the same language, just like with EDI.

Why Crate & Packaging Pooling Companies Use GRAI Codes

Pooling companies such as Euro Pool System, Ifco, and similar organizations manage millions of reusable crates across Europe. They rely on GRAI coding to:

• Identify each crate uniquely

• Track crates across multiple clients and reuse cycles

• Monitor crate locations and returns

• Reduce unnecessary purchases or replacements

• Ensure accurate billing based on asset usage

  
  

For supermarkets, this means full transparency over which crates were delivered, when, and by whom — making operations more reliable and traceable.

Why Tracking GRAI Codes Is

Important

Tracking GRAI-coded crates provides major benefits:

1. Traceability

Retailers require suppliers to provide detailed information about the crates used for shipments. This helps guarantee food safety, compliance, and traceability.

2. Efficiency

Accurately tracking assets prevents losses, ensures timely returns, and keeps supply chains running smoothly.

3. Cost Reduction

Returnable crates incur rental or usage fees. Tracking them prevents overbilling and prevents losing assets that must be replaced.

4. EDI Compliance

Many retailers require GRAI codes to be included in EDI DESADV (Despatch Advice) messages to ensure full shipment transparency.

How EDI Connector Enhances GRAI-Code Tracking for Retail Suppliers

This is where our EDI Connector web portal comes in.

We’ve built bespoke integration specifically for suppliers working with major retailers like Delhaize, Carrefour, and others who require crate tracking using GRAI codes.

✔ Scan Crates Using Any Barcode Scanner

Within the EDI Connector portal, users can scan the GRAI barcode on each Euro Pool crate. Once scanned, the code is instantly linked to the corresponding shipment and order line in the EDI Connector webapp.

✔ Track GRAI Codes Across the Entire Shipping Process

Users can:

• View all scanned crate codes

• Check which crates are assigned to which shipments

• Follow them through the logistics chain

• Keep a historical record for auditing or disputes

  
  

This ensures full traceability and simple management.

✔ Include GRAI Codes Directly in DESADV Messages

The system automatically embeds the GRAI codes into the EDI DESADV message sent to the retailer.

This gives the supermarket complete visibility over:

• Which crate was used

• When it was shipped

• What items it contained

  
  

Retailers can then track the crate within their own GS1-based system.

✔ Fully Compliant with Retail Requirements

Our platform is designed to meet retailer-specific GRAI and DESADV requirements, reducing the risk of rejected messages, chargebacks, or compliance issues.

Why This Matters for Your Business

Using EDI Connector for GRAI code tracking means:

• Less manual work

• No spreadsheet errors

• Faster EDI processing

• Better compliance with demanding retailers

• Full transparency for both your business and your clients

  
  

Whether you work with Euro Pool crates or any other GS1-compliant returnable assets, EDI Connector automates the entire tracking process.

Bringing Clarity to Crate Tracking

GRAI codes are essential for a modern, efficient, and transparent supply chain — especially for suppliers in the retail sector. With the right tools, managing and tracking these returnable assets doesn’t need to be complicated.

EDI Connector brings all GRAI-code scanning, tracking, and EDI integration together in one streamlined portal — tailored for suppliers working with major supermarket chains.

Contact us today to find out more

Get in Touch