This update applies to Metrc (Ohio) and summarizes Metrc Support Bulletin OH_IB_88 (Revision) distributed 07/22/2026, covering new/renamed product categories, newly permitted processor-to-processor transfer types (effective 07/13/2026), and a new optional pre-transfer lab test batch workflow in Metrc.
Bulletin overview (OH_IB_88)
Subject: Transfer Type and Product Category Updates
Effective date: Ongoing (with specific transfer and testing changes effective 07/13/2026)
Regulatory authority referenced: Ohio Division of Cannabis Control (DCC) guidance and Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) requirements
Ohio Metrc product category updates
The DCC created and Metrc implemented a new product category intended to clearly distinguish products designed for transdermal administration from other topical products. This is a categorization change that affects how items should be created and maintained in Metrc, and it can also affect downstream transfer paperwork, testing workflows, and labeling consistency.
New category for transdermal cosmetics
Metrc now includes a new product category for Gel/Lotion/Similar Cosmetics for Transdermal Administration. The intent is transparency: products meant to deliver cannabinoids through the skin should be categorized as transdermal rather than grouped with general topical items.
Renamed bulk topical category
The existing Metrc Bulk Topical category has been renamed to Bulk Cannabis Topical/Transdermal Solution. Operationally, this means teams should review item records and SOP language so the category name used in Metrc aligns with internal naming, production batch records, and any labeling/COA documentation that references category terms.
Ohio processor transfer type changes (effective 07/13/2026)
Beginning 07/13/2026, the DCC indicates certain bulk categories are permissible to transfer from a licensed processor to another licensed processor under proposed rule OAC 1301:18-3-17. This affects which “Transfer Type” and item categories are acceptable for specific inter-processor movements and can reduce friction when moving bulk intermediate goods between processing sites.
Bulk categories allowed for processor-to-processor transfer
• Bulk Cannabis Distillate/Extract
• Bulk Vaporization Solution
• Bulk Final Form Concentrate
Compliance responsibility remains on both parties
Even though these categories are now available for processor-to-processor transfer, each licensee remains responsible for meeting all applicable transfer requirements described in the Division’s Licensed Entity Transfer Guidance and OAC 1301:18-3-13 and 1301:18-3-16.
The receiving processor must also ensure all current testing requirements are satisfied before any subsequent transfer to a dispensary for sale. The bulletin references OAC 3796:3-2-06 and 3796:4-2-04 for testing requirements prior to dispensary transfer.
Practical implication: If your facility receives bulk distillate/extract, vaporization solution, or final form concentrate from another processor, you should plan for the receiving-side testing and release steps before that inventory is eligible to move downstream to retail.
New Metrc lab test batch: Bulk Processed Product (Pre-Transfer)
Metrc added a new laboratory test batch option on 07/13/2026 titled Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer. This test batch is designed to support the updated transfer workflow for bulk processed products prior to transfer.
Optional “additional cannabinoids” field (temporary)
The Division enabled an optional “additional cannabinoids” test type within the Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer test batch until proposed testing rules become effective.
Status: Not required at this time
Format: Input as “cannabinoid (mg/g)”
Practical implication: If your lab or QA team is already capturing additional cannabinoid data, you can standardize entry in Metrc now to reduce future rework when proposed rules take effect. If you are not capturing it yet, you are not required to start solely due to this optional field.
All other transfers follow existing testing rules
All product transfers not covered by the updated processor-to-processor categories must continue to meet current rule requirements pursuant to OAC 3796 until proposed testing rules become effective.
DCC guidance link referenced in the bulletin: DCC Lab Test Batch Guidance (PDF)
Day-to-day operational impacts in Metrc (Ohio)
Item setup and category accuracy
Because the DCC is explicitly differentiating topical versus transdermal products, processors should verify that newly manufactured SKUs are created under the correct Metrc product category and that any internal SKU/category mapping (e.g., in production software or spreadsheets) matches Metrc. Misclassification can create transfer rejections, confusion during audits, or mismatches between COAs and inventory types.
Transfer planning between processors
If you routinely move bulk intermediates between processor licenses, update your transfer SOPs to reflect that Bulk Cannabis Distillate/Extract, Bulk Vaporization Solution, and Bulk Final Form Concentrate are now supported for processor-to-processor transfers. Coordinate with the receiving processor on testing responsibilities and acceptance criteria so inventory does not stall after receipt.
Testing workflow alignment before retail movement
The receiving processor should treat the new Bulk Processed Product Pre-Transfer test batch as a workflow tool to document pre-transfer testing expectations and data in Metrc, while continuing to ensure all required test results and compliance steps are completed before any transfer to a dispensary.
Labeling and Metrc Retail ID support
Category changes and new transfer/testing workflows often trigger label updates (e.g., product type descriptors and consistent item identity across systems). DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels that can help teams keep label data synchronized with Metrc item records and support Metrc Retail ID compliance in day-to-day operations.
For larger multi-site operators who need deeper operational control across production, inventory, sales, purchasing, and compliance reporting, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed for complete supply chain management alongside Metrc workflows.
Support and training resources
Metrc Support: Submit a case in the Metrc Support Portal, call 877-566-6506, or use live chat via the Metrc Expert widget. First-time portal access typically requires a username, the applicable state, your facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s training platform provides interactive education on system functionality to improve accuracy and efficiency. Access it at https://learn.metrc.com or from within Metrc via the Support menu by selecting “Sign up for Training.”
DCC questions: For rule interpretation and Division guidance details, the bulletin directs licensees to the DCC Cannabis Service Center.
