What is Chain of Custody?
Chain of Custody (CoC) refers to the process of documenting and verifying the sequence of custody and control over materials and products within a supply chain.
In the context of supply chain traceability, CoC is crucial for ensuring transparency from origin through to the final consumer. This involves recording each transfer of material from one handler to another, including harvesting, processing, transportation, and distribution.
For traceability companies, establishing a clear and auditable CoC is essential for certifying the authenticity of products, validating sustainability claims, and complying with legal and regulatory requirements. CoC serves as a backbone for systems aiming to ensure ethical sourcing, prevent counterfeiting, and support responsible environmental and social practices within supply chains.
Related terms
Supply Chain Transparency
Supply Chain Transparency refers to the extent to which a company discloses information regarding the practices, partners, policies, and origins within its supply chain.
Wood Products
Wood Products refer to a wide variety of goods derived from trees and forests, including lumber, plywood, paper, furniture, and other items made from wood fibres. These products are integral to numerous industries and everyday life, offering benefits such as carbon sequestration, renewable material, and versatility.
Due Diligence
In supply chain traceability, due diligence is the process companies undertake to ensure their suppliers and partners comply with legal, environmental, and ethical standards.