What to do when an RVM collection bag will not scan

When a collector cannot scan a reverse vending machine (RVM) collection bag, preserve the original reference and record whether the bag stayed on site or left under an approved exception. Keep the case open until the site and receiver can match the physical bag to the collection record.

What should the site record at pickup?

Start with the machine or station, material stream, time of pickup, and original bag or tag reference if it is legible. If the reference is unreadable, use a clearly labelled temporary exception number in the site log. Keep the actual scan outcome separate from the physical handover outcome.

Ireland’s Re-turn retailer guidance describes sealing and storing barcoded bags until a driver scans them at collection. Each site should use its own programme’s approved process for damaged seals, missing tags or failed scans. If that process requires a bag to stay on site, record where it was held and who will arrange the next step.

How do you avoid counting the same bag twice?

If the approved process calls for a replacement tag, record the old and new references on the same exception. Retain the original entry and use the replacement reference for the same physical bag. If a code appears on two bags, ask the collection lead to resolve the duplicate before counting either scan as proof of a separate handover. Check for duplicate receipts before adding any quantity to the reporting total.

What does a partial pickup look like in the log?

Suppose four bags were ready. The driver scanned and took three, and the fourth stayed on site because its tag was unreadable. Record three as transferred and one as held for review. When the fourth bag leaves at a later pickup, link the new receipt to its exception. The next shift can see why the first pickup covered only three bags and where to find the record for the fourth.

The collection handover guide lists the evidence to keep for routine transfers. The net weight guide explains how to record a ticket that covers several bags without assigning its full weight to each one.