GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a globally unique 8, 12, 13, or 14-digit number used to identify products and services. It is the basis for barcodes scanned at point-of-sale and throughout the supply chain.
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Apply as a Design Partner →A GTIN is a unique identifier assigned to trade items, such as products or services, that are priced, ordered, or invoiced at any point in the supply chain. It encompasses various barcode symbologies like UPC (GTIN-12), EAN (GTIN-13), and ITF-14 (GTIN-14), ensuring consistent global identification. This number facilitates efficient data exchange between trading partners, from manufacturers to retailers, and is crucial for inventory management and sales tracking. Each distinct product variation (e.g., size, flavor, color) requires its own unique GTIN.
GTINs are fundamental for accurate inventory management, streamlined logistics, and efficient point-of-sale transactions. They enable brands to track products globally, prevent errors, and meet retailer compliance requirements, ultimately impacting sales and operational efficiency. Proper GTIN assignment ensures products are correctly identified and listed across all sales channels.
For CPG and food manufacturers, GTINs are indispensable for getting products onto retail shelves and into consumers' hands. They are printed on product packaging as barcodes, allowing retailers to scan items, manage stock, and process sales quickly. Adhering to GTIN standards is critical for market access, avoiding costly rejections, and seamless integration with retailer systems.
A new flavor of yogurt in a specific size will be assigned a unique GTIN. This GTIN will be encoded into a UPC-A barcode printed on its packaging, allowing supermarkets to scan and sell it.
What is the difference between a GTIN and a UPC?
A UPC (Universal Product Code) is a specific type of GTIN, primarily used in North America, that is 12 digits long (GTIN-12). GTIN is the overarching term for global trade item numbers, including UPCs and EANs.
How do I obtain a GTIN for my products?
GTINs are licensed from GS1, a global standards organization. CPG brands apply to their local GS1 member organization to obtain a company prefix, which allows them to generate unique GTINs for their products.
Does every product variation need a unique GTIN?
Yes, any variation of a product that is priced, ordered, or inventoried separately requires its own unique GTIN. This includes differences in size, flavor, color, packaging, or even promotional bundles.
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