This article explains Metrc (Ohio) Support Bulletin OH_IB_0088 (distributed 07/02/2026), which updates permissible product categories and processor transfer types, and adds a new lab test batch option effective 07/13/2026.
Bulletin overview (OH_IB_0088)
Who issued the guidance: Metrc and the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC).
What changed: Metrc item/product categories were updated to improve how transdermal products are categorized, and DCC expanded which bulk categories may transfer from a licensed processor to another licensed processor under proposed rules.
Where to reference DCC guidance: DCC Lab Test Batch Guidance (link provided in bulletin).
Ohio Metrc product category updates (transdermal/topicals)
DCC created a new product category specifically for transdermal cosmetic-style items so they can be tracked and reported with more transparency in Metrc.
New product category: Gel/Lotion/Similar Cosmetics for Transdermal Administration.
In addition, Metrc renamed an existing bulk topical category to better reflect its intended use for transdermal/topical inputs and intermediates.
Category name change: “Bulk Topical” is now “Bulk Cannabis Topical/Transdermal Solution.”
Operationally, this means processors should review how they categorize topical and transdermal SKUs and bulk inputs in Metrc to ensure the selected category matches the product’s route of administration and DCC’s intent.
Ohio Metrc transfer type updates for processor-to-processor transfers
Effective date: 07/13/2026.
The Division is notifying licensees that specific bulk categories will be available for transfer from a licensed processor to another licensed processor, consistent with proposed Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 1301:18-3-17.
Within the scope described by DCC, the processor-to-processor transfer availability includes the following bulk categories.
• Bulk Cannabis Distillate/Extract
• Bulk Vaporization Solution
• Bulk Final Form Concentrate
Licensee responsibility: Each licensee must ensure all applicable transfer requirements are met per the Division’s Licensed Entity Transfer Guidance and OAC 1301:18-3-13 and OAC 1301:18-3-16.
New Metrc lab test batch: “Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer”
Availability in Metrc: 07/13/2026.
DCC and Metrc are adding a new laboratory test batch option titled Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer. For day-to-day operations, this affects how processors request testing and document compliance when preparing eligible bulk categories for transfer to another processor.
Testing and downstream transfer implications (processors and dispensary supply)
Even when a processor-to-processor transfer is permitted, the receiving processor must confirm the product meets current testing requirements before any transfer to a dispensary for sale to a patient or consumer.
Testing rule references cited in the bulletin: OAC 3796:3-2-06 and OAC 3796:4-2-04.
Important limitation: Product transfers not outlined in the updated guidance must continue to meet current rule requirements pursuant to OAC 3796 until the effective date of the proposed testing rules.
Practically, teams should align SOPs across compliance, production, and logistics so that (1) Metrc categories match the product’s actual form and administration route, (2) transfer manifests use the correct transfer type/category combination, and (3) testing is scheduled and recorded early enough to prevent downstream fulfillment delays.
Day-to-day Metrc workflow impacts for Ohio operators
Inventory setup and item creation: Review item templates and standard operating procedures so transdermal gels/lotions/cosmetics are created under the new category and bulk topical inputs use the renamed “Bulk Cannabis Topical/Transdermal Solution” category.
Inter-facility transfers: Processor shipping staff should confirm transfer eligibility by product category before building transfers, especially for distillate/extract, vaporization solution, and final form concentrate transfers to another processor after 07/13/2026.
Lab coordination: Compliance and QA teams should update internal testing workflows to incorporate the “Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer” test batch where applicable, and verify results are complete before the product is routed toward dispensary supply.
Audit readiness: Maintain clear documentation connecting the Metrc category, the transfer type used, and the applicable test batch and results so records are defensible under DCC review.
Labeling support: DistruLabels and Metrc Retail ID compliance
Accurate Metrc categorization and compliant transfers ultimately flow into retail-ready packaging and labeling. DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, and it can help operations stay aligned with Metrc Retail ID compliance by standardizing how required identifiers and product details are placed on labels.
For larger operators that need end-to-end inventory, manufacturing, distribution, and compliance workflows beyond labeling, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to support complete supply chain management.
Where to get help (Metrc and DCC)
Metrc Support: Visit support.metrc.com, submit a case in the Support portal, call 877-566-6506, or use live chat via the Metrc Expert widget.
Metrc training: Metrc Learn is available at learn.metrc.com and can also be accessed from inside Metrc via the Support menu by selecting “Sign up for Training.”
DCC questions: Refer to the Division’s published guidance and direct regulatory interpretation questions to the DCC Cannabis Service Center.
