The IUID (Item Unique Identification) policy from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is focused on assigning a unique identifier to items that are purchased, produced, or acquired by the DoD. The goal is to improve visibility and tracking of these items throughout their lifecycle.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the policy’s main requirements:
1. What is IUID?
IUID is a system where each item (like a part, component, or piece of equipment) gets a unique identifier. This identifier is typically a 2D barcode or RFID tag that contains information like serial numbers, part numbers, and other relevant details about the item.
2. Why is IUID Important?
- Tracking and Accountability: It helps the DoD track every item they own, manage inventory, and ensure items are where they need to be.
- Security and Maintenance: By giving each item a unique ID, the DoD can better manage things like maintenance schedules and repair history.
- Audit and Compliance: It makes it easier to audit and ensure the proper use of assets, preventing loss or theft.
3. When is IUID Required?
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All Acquisitions: The IUID requirement applies to any items the DoD buys or manufactures, including:
- Spare parts, tools, and equipment.
- Major systems (aircraft, ships, vehicles, etc.).
- Items that cost $5,000 or more per unit.
- Exceptions: Some small or non-critical items may not need IUIDs, but this is determined based on the nature and cost of the item.
4. How is IUID Applied?
- Tagging the Item: Each eligible item must be labeled with a unique IUID label or tag, typically including a barcode or RFID tag.
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Unique Identifier: The identifier includes data about the item, such as its:
- Serial number
- Part number
- Lot or batch number
- Manufacturer or supplier information
- Data Submission: The DoD requires that the IUID data be recorded in the IUID Registry, a database that stores this information. Suppliers and manufacturers must enter the item data into this registry, ensuring full traceability.
5. Who is Responsible?
- Prime Contractors/Suppliers: Those who provide items to the DoD directly are responsible for ensuring IUID is applied to applicable items, and registered in the DoD's IUID Registry database.
- Subtier Suppliers to a Prime Contractor: In many instances, Prime Contractors will flow down IUID requirements to the suppliers of parts of the final item assembly.
6. Benefits of IUID:
- Improved Asset Tracking: The DoD can track and monitor every item throughout its lifecycle.
- Better Maintenance Management: It helps schedule and track maintenance or repairs for items, ensuring they’re kept in good condition.
- Increased Efficiency: IUID reduces paperwork and manual tracking, making the supply chain more efficient.
- Enhanced Security: IUID helps protect against theft and loss, as each item is uniquely identifiable and tracked.
In Summary:
The IUID DoD policy is about ensuring that all critical items acquired by the Department of Defense are uniquely identified and tracked. By applying a unique ID (usually in the form of a barcode or RFID), it helps improve asset visibility, accountability, security, and maintenance management. Contractors and suppliers must ensure that eligible items are tagged with this unique identifier, and the information is recorded in the official registry. The policy applies to most items valued at $5,000 or more, but some exceptions exist for smaller or less critical items.