What is a GTIN Number & How can I Obtain One?

When you see a product barcode in a store, you’re looking at a Global Trade Item Number, or GTIN, in action. GTINs are unique codes that identify products around the world.

GTINs help retailers, manufacturers, and customers keep track of items across markets and supply chains. Understanding GTINs can be valuable for any business or seller who wants to bring products to the market effortlessly. We will explain GTINs, their types, significance, and the steps to obtain one.

Understanding GTINs and Their Purpose

A GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, is a unique code made up of numbers. It gives a specific identity to a product. This code provides essential product data like origin, manufacturer, and item details when scanned. 

GTINs are widely used in barcode labels, which you’ll see on almost any product package. These codes help identify products efficiently and accurately around the world. Accurate product data is vital for making sales, managing inventory, and improving customer experience.

Types of GTINs

There are different formats of GTIN data structures, each with a unique purpose and region of use:

• GTIN-12: This 12-digit GTIN is most common in North America and is represented by the Universal Product Code (UPC).
• GTIN-13: With 13 digits, GTIN-13 is used globally and often appears as the European Article Number (EAN).
• GTIN-14 is a 14-digit number used to identify items sold in bulk. It helps track larger packages, cases, or pallets in distribution settings.
• GTIN-8: This shorter, 8-digit GTIN is often used for small items with limited product packaging space.

These variations allow GTINs to cover a broad range of products, from individual items to bulk shipments.

Why GTINs Are Important

GTINs offer several benefits to businesses, retailers, and consumers:

1. Global Product Recognition: GTINs are recognized around the world. This makes international trade more manageable and helps companies enter new markets without confusion.

2. Accurate Inventory Management: By uniquely identifying ehttps://www.cnn.com/2024/11/14/politics/matt-gaetz-attorney-general-el-salvador-prison-bukele/index.htmlach product, GTINs allow for precise tracking across supply chains, helping businesses manage stock levels, avoid overstock or stockouts, and quickly locate products.

3. Enhanced Customer Trust: GTINs help prevent counterfeiting and misidentification, giving consumers confidence in the product’s authenticity. For businesses, this is crucial in building a trustworthy brand image.

How to Obtain a GTIN

Acquiring a GTIN is a straightforward process, typically involving registration with GS1, the global organization that issues GTINs:

1. Register your company with GS1: Visit the GS1 website and create an account for your business.

2. Receive a Company Prefix: GS1 will provide a unique company prefix when you register. This prefix is essential, as it forms the beginning of each GTIN associated with your business.

3. Assign Reference Numbers: Next, combine your company prefix with specific reference numbers for each product. This combination creates unique GTINs for every item, ensuring that no two products have the same code.

4. Calculate the Check Digit: Each GTIN includes a final check digit that validates the GTIN’s accuracy. GS1 offers tools to help businesses calculate this number correctly.

5. Add GTINs to Product Barcodes: Finally, incorporate your GTINs into barcodes, which are printed on product packaging. These barcodes make it easy to scan and read GTINs in stores and during distribution.

Additional Considerations for GTINs

While obtaining a GTIN comes with some initial costs, the benefits far outweigh them. GTINs help businesses avoid costly errors in product tracking, make it easier to work with international retailers and give a more professional look to any product. Maintaining an organized record of all GTINs you assign ensures consistency and prevents duplication.

In Closing

A GTIN for each product you sell is essential in today’s global market. Not only does it enable seamless interactions across borders, but it also builds credibility with consumers. Businesses can quickly get GTINs by following the steps above. Using GTINs can help simplify operations, reach more customers, and build consumer trust. GTINs can help small and large businesses manage their products more efficiently and enhance their brand reputation.

AccuGraphiX for Your GTIN Needs

Get your products recognized worldwide and meet industry standards by obtaining GTINs with AccuGraphiX. Since 2004, we have partnered with GS1 US to provide expert help in barcode verification and UPC identification. Contact us today to simplify your product identification process and expand your market reach.