How Retailers like Best Buy and Walmart Track Electronics: Serial Numbers and Beyond
Major retailers, such as Best Buy and Walmart, have sophisticated systems in place to track the electronics they sell. This includes recording serial numbers, which play a pivotal role in multiple aspects of their operations. From theft prevention and recovery to warranty claims and inventory management, the tracking of serial numbers is crucial for effective loss prevention strategies.
The Role of Serial Numbers in Retail
When a product is sold, the transaction is promptly recorded in the inventory management system. This includes essential details such as the item description, price, and serial number. Here is why tracking serial numbers is so important:
Theft Prevention and Recovery
Retailers can report stolen items to law enforcement by providing the serial number. This information is crucial for recovering the stolen goods, helping to curb the theft of electronics.
Warranty and Service
Serial numbers are also vital for warranty claims and service requests. By verifying the purchase history, retailers can ensure that only legitimate customers receive the necessary support and protection.
Inventory Management
Keeping track of serial numbers helps retailers manage their stock, identify theft trends, and analyze sales data. These insights are crucial for maintaining an efficient and secure inventory system.
While the response to theft may vary, the ability to track serial numbers is a key component of effective loss prevention strategies for large retailers.
High-Value Product Tracking
The big box stores, such as Best Buy and Walmart, maintain an electronic inventory of all the items in their stores. High-value products, such as Apple products, are particularly easy to track. Featured here are examples of how these systems function:
If a person walks through the scanners at the doors with an unpaid item, an alarm will go off unless the person somehow managed to remove the tag. Still, the serial number for all electronic products is accessible. You need proof of purchase, such as a serial number, to claim a warranty.At Best Buy, for instance, the process of tracking a sale involves scanning a QR code that records the model and serial number, and then scanning the price. This information appears on the receipt. If a product goes out of warranty, the serial number is used to verify the purchase and authorize a repair or replacement.
The Checkout Process
The electronic record-keeping at the point of sale is just the beginning. Here is an example from my personal experience at Best Buy:
When one of my computers died, the serial number was checked against my purchase to verify the claim for warranty coverage. Upon repair and replacement, the old model and serial number were scanned from my account, and a new one was added.Additionally, pawn shops often coordinate with stores to verify the legitimacy of any accepted computer. This ensures that stolen devices are not resold, and puts the onus on the hockeys (those who try to sell stolen devices).
Cell Phone Tracking
Even cell phones are included in the tracking process. Your purchase is recorded, and the serial number is kept on file. This makes it nearly impossible to sell a stolen phone without being caught.
Overall, the tracking of serial numbers is a comprehensive and effective strategy that retailers use to protect their inventory, ensure customer satisfaction, and prevent theft. Whether through in-store systems or interdepartmental coordination, the tracking of serial numbers is a vital component in maintaining a secure and efficient retail environment.