Direct answer: Take clear photos of the front panel, identifier/barcode panel, expiration and lot, factory seals, distribution labels, and any damage. Use natural light, keep text readable, and photograph each different model or expiration group.
The six-photo sequence
- Front: full product name and pack count.
- Identifier panel: REF, NDC, product number, or barcode.
- Date panel: expiration and lot.
- Top and bottom: seals and flaps.
- Side view: dents, tears, stickers, or writing.
- Group photo: all boxes arranged by model and date.
Camera setup
- Clean the camera lens.
- Use the rear camera at normal zoom.
- Photograph near a window or bright lamp.
- Place the box on a plain contrasting surface.
- Hold the phone parallel to the label.
- Tap the identifier text to focus.
Avoid glare and blur
Glossy packaging can reflect overhead lights. Tilt the light source or move the box rather than tilting the camera sharply. Take two identifier photos from slightly different angles when glare covers any digits.
Show the exact identifier
For Dexcom, make the REF readable. For OmniPod, show the full NDC and package description. For FreeStyle Libre, show the complete product name plus any NDC, product/catalog number, NFR, sample, or DME wording.
Privacy: what you may cover
You may cover your personal name, address, phone number, prescription number, and pharmacy account information. Use a removable piece of paper in the photo rather than peeling or marking the box.
Do not cover
- Product name
- REF or NDC
- Expiration date
- Lot number
- Pack count
- Manufacturer barcode
- Distribution and restriction wording
Photograph damage honestly
Take close-ups of dents, crushed corners, water marks, torn cardboard, label residue, writing, or seal issues. A hidden issue discovered later is more likely to cause an adjustment than an issue disclosed before shipping.
Multiple boxes
Group identical products with the same expiration together. Use a handwritten card beside the group stating the model, expiration, and quantity—but never write on the boxes themselves. Photograph different dates as separate groups.
Common photo mistakes
| Mistake | Why it causes delay | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Only front photo | No identifier or expiration | Add barcode and date panels |
| Photo too far away | Digits unreadable | Take a focused close-up |
| Flash glare | Covers barcode/date | Use indirect light |
| Cropped box | Cannot prove which product panel belongs to | Include one wide photo |
| Labels removed | Package appears altered | Leave labels intact and cover private text only in the photo |
Before you upload or text photos
- Zoom in and confirm every digit is readable.
- Check that no personal information remains visible unless intended.
- Confirm the photo matches the line item in your quote.
- Retake any image with blur or glare.
Photos ready?
Use the exact model, identifier, expiration, and condition shown in your images.
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