Guide

How to Read the Expiration Date on Diabetic Test Strips

Updated 2026

Before selling your test strips, you need to know their expiration date. Different brands format it differently, and it's not always obvious where to look. Here's a quick brand-by-brand guide.

Where to Find the Expiration Date

On the Bottle (Most Brands)

The expiration date is usually printed on the bottom of the strip bottle. Look for "EXP," "USE BY," or "BEST BY" followed by a date. The format is typically:

On the Box

The outer box usually has the expiration date printed on one of the narrow sides. It's often in smaller print near the lot number (LOT) and serial number.

Brand-Specific Notes

BrandWhere to Find DateFormat
OneTouchBottom of bottle, side of boxMM/YYYY
Freestyle / LibreBottom of tray packagingYYYY-MM-DD
Accu-ChekBottom of drum/bottleMM/YYYY
Contour NextBottom of bottleMM-YYYY
Bayer / AscensiaSide of boxMM/YYYY
ReliOnBottom of vialMM/YYYY

How Long Before Expiration Can You Sell?

💡 When in doubt, send us a photo of the bottle bottom and we'll tell you if they qualify. Takes 30 seconds and saves everyone time.

What About CGM Sensors?

Dexcom and Freestyle Libre sensors have expiration dates printed on the individual foil packaging of each sensor, as well as on the outer box. Libre sensors use YYYY-MM-DD format. Dexcom uses MM/YYYY.

Check If Your Strips Qualify

Contact us with your brand, count, and expiration date. We'll tell you the offer within minutes.

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