item unique identification

A system of marking items delivered to DoD with unique item identifiers that have machine-readable data elements to distinguish an item for all other like and unlike items. For items that are serialized within the enterprise identifier, the unique item identifier shall include the data elements of the enterprise identifier and a unique serial number. For items that are serialized within the part, lot, or batch number within the enterprise identifier, the unique item identifier shall include the data elements of the enterprise identifier; the original part, lot, or batch number; and the serial number. "Enterprise” means the entity (e.g., a manufacturer or vendor) responsible for assigning unique item identifiers to items. “Enterprise identifier” means a unique code that is assigned to an enterprise by an issuing agency.