How do you keep Bates numbering consistent across multiple separate document productions?
Techniques for unbroken sequences when documents arrive in waves.
The problem with resets
When each production starts numbering from one, you get overlapping numbers that point to different pages. Chaos follows quickly.
A shared reference falls apart the moment two pages share an identifier.
Continuing where you left off
The fix is to start each new batch at the number after the last one ended. The sequence flows unbroken across productions.
Recording the last number used makes the next batch trivial to configure.
Locking the format
Keeping the same prefix and padding across every batch is just as important as the sequence. A changed format breaks sorting.
Presets that store your format prevent accidental drift.
Tracking across a matter
A simple log of ranges used per production keeps everyone aligned. You always know which numbers belong to which batch.
That log becomes invaluable when the case spans months.
- Resetting to one creates overlapping, ambiguous numbers
- Start each batch where the last one ended
- Keep prefix and padding identical across productions
- Log the ranges used per production to stay aligned
Julien Jimenez
Julien Jimenez is an independent software builder based in Paris. He designs, ships, and operates focused SaaS products for small businesses and independent professionals. Read the full author page.
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