Direct answer: On most Dexcom retail or distribution boxes, look on a side, back, or bottom panel near the barcode, lot number, and expiration date. The manufacturer reference number is typically introduced by REF. Copy every letter, dash, and digit exactly as printed.
What a Dexcom REF number tells us
A REF is a manufacturer reference or catalog identifier for a specific product configuration. It helps distinguish products that may share the same brand name but differ by wear duration, pack count, distribution channel, receiver inclusion, or package generation.
| Number on the box | What it identifies | Use for quote? |
|---|---|---|
| REF | The product configuration or catalog item | Yes |
| SN / serial | One individual sensor, receiver, or device | Usually no |
| LOT | The manufacturing batch | Useful for verification, not model selection |
| EXP | The expiration date | Yes |
| UPC / GTIN | The retail barcode identity | Helpful only when REF is unclear |
Step-by-step: read the box correctly
- Place the unopened box on a flat surface in good light.
- Find the panel with the barcode and manufacturing symbols.
- Look specifically for the letters REF.
- Write the complete REF exactly as printed.
- On the same panel, record the expiration date and lot number.
- Check the front panel for the full model name and pack count.
- Note any DME, pharmacy, sample, institutional, or payer wording.
Dexcom G7: details that change identification
Do not submit only “Dexcom G7.” The G7 family includes different wear durations and package variants. Record whether the front says G7 or G7 15 Day, then pair that wording with the REF and expiration date. Dexcom’s current U.S. materials distinguish standard G7 products from the G7 15 Day system, so the exact front-panel name matters.
Submit these G7 details
- Full model name from the front panel
- REF from the barcode panel
- Expiration date
- Number of sealed boxes
- Any DME, pharmacy, replacement, or distribution wording
- Photos of dents, tears, labels, or writing
Dexcom G6: sensor versus transmitter
G6 sensors and G6 transmitters are separate products. The sensor box usually states the sensor pack count, while the transmitter package identifies the transmitter. Never use a transmitter REF for a sensor quote or combine both products under one line item.
How to photograph the REF panel
- Use the rear camera rather than a screenshot or scanned copy.
- Keep the entire identifier panel in frame.
- Avoid glare across the barcode and expiration date.
- Take one close photo and one wider photo showing the full box.
- You may cover your personal name and address, but do not cover product identifiers.
What if the REF is damaged or unreadable?
Do not guess from another box or internet photo. Send a clear image of every visible panel. If the exact product cannot be verified from the factory packaging, we may be unable to provide a reliable estimate or accept the item.
Quick checklist before submitting
- Model name matches the front panel
- REF copied exactly
- Expiration entered correctly
- Quantity counts sealed boxes, not individual sensors unless requested
- Package condition disclosed
- Restricted labels disclosed
Official product references
Dexcom recommends keeping identifying information from the sensor box or applicator available when product support is needed. Current Dexcom materials also identify G7 and G7 15 Day as distinct systems. Review the manufacturer’s current materials when model wording is unclear.
Dexcom: product identifying information
Dexcom: G7 and G7 15 Day systems
Have the REF and expiration date ready?
Submit the exact box details for a more accurate estimated offer.
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