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Product Identification

How to find REF and NDC numbers on diabetic supply boxes

A model-identification guide for Dexcom, FreeStyle Libre, OmniPod, and other packaged diabetic supplies.

Direct answer: Look near the barcode, lot number, and expiration date on the side or back panel of the original box. Dexcom commonly uses a number labeled “REF.” OmniPod packages commonly display an 11-digit NDC. FreeStyle Libre boxes may use product, sensor, NDC, or catalog identifiers depending on the package.

Why this matters: the REF or NDC identifies the exact package variant. Using only the brand name can select the wrong pricing tier.

REF versus NDC

IdentifierWhat it usually meansWhere you may see it
REFManufacturer reference or catalog number for a specific product configurationDexcom and medical-device packaging near the barcode
NDCNational Drug Code-format identifier used on many pharmacy-distributed productsOmniPod and some Libre packaging, often shown with hyphens
UPC/GTINRetail barcode identifierNear the main barcode; useful but not always the number requested
LOTManufacturing batchNear expiration; not a substitute for REF/NDC
EXPExpiration dateSide, bottom or back panel

How to find a Dexcom REF number

On Dexcom boxes, look for the letters REF followed by a product number. It is often printed close to the barcode, lot number, and expiration date. Do not use the serial number, lot number, or phone-app compatibility wording as the REF.

Dexcom details to submit

Different G7 15-Day REF variants may have different values. See the G7 15-Day page and Dexcom price guide.

How to identify a FreeStyle Libre model

Start with the full product name on the front panel: Libre 3 Plus, Libre 3, Libre 2 Plus, Libre 2, or 14-Day. Then examine the side or back for an NDC, product/catalog number, barcode, expiration, and wording such as NFR or sample.

Common Libre mistakes

See the FreeStyle Libre selling guide.

How to find an OmniPod NDC

OmniPod boxes commonly show an NDC in a hyphenated format. The NDC helps distinguish OmniPod 5 from DASH, package counts, DME variants, and CGM-compatible versions. Read the entire number; the final digits can identify a different package size or variant.

OmniPod details to submit

See the OmniPod identification and pricing guide.

Do not confuse these numbers

Photo checklist for product identification

When identification is uncertain, take clear photos of:

  1. The front of the box showing the full product name.
  2. The panel showing REF or NDC.
  3. The expiration and lot panel.
  4. Any pharmacy, DME, NFR, sample, institutional, or payer labels.
  5. Any dents, tears, writing, or seal damage.

Privacy when photographing boxes

You may cover personal prescription information such as your name and address, but do not cover the product name, REF/NDC, expiration date, lot number, manufacturer barcode, package count, or distribution wording needed to verify eligibility.

What if the identifier is missing or unreadable?

Do not guess. A missing, torn, obscured, or altered identifier can prevent pricing or make the item ineligible because the exact product cannot be verified. Contact us before shipping and provide the clearest available photos.

Found the identifier?

Enter the exact REF or NDC, expiration date, and quantity for a more accurate estimate.

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