It starts with identification

You need a unique Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) to sell your product anywhere in the world, both online and in a physical shop. The article code is a unique passport with which every link in the logistics chain can recognise your product. And if you add a symbol, it can also be scanned. 

Passport for your product

After you have purchased GTINs and added them to MyGS1, they will automatically appear in a worldwide network, so everyone can see which code belongs to which article. Like a real passport.

Key to more product information

The GTIN is also a key to much more information. With the code, you can add product information in GS1 Data Source, our data pool that uses the global GDSN network. Within this network, you share product data with your customers, such as retailers. Think about logistical information, such as dimensions. And label information, such as allergens. The article code also forms the basis for exchanging electronic messages via GS1 EDI. 

Identifying your company

With a Global Location Number (GLN), you identify a company, branch, warehouse, or even specific shelves in a rack. The code also allows you to identify your business in GS1 Data Source. If you sell to larger retailers, they will often ask you for your GLN. A GLN identifies your company in their system. You can make a GLN scannable in the form of a barcode.

2D barcodes

Since the introduction of the barcode in 1974, the world has changed considerably. Technology is advancing and the demands for more and better information are growing. 2D codes can support modern supply chains and consumer needs. In addition to the information contained in the GTIN, 2D codes can contain a large amount of extra information, such as a web address, guarantee, recipe, installation instructions, best-before date, serial number and batch number.