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Let's understand what GTIN Numbers are

 A system of global standards for product identification was introduced to streamline trade between countries. These codes, which are unique to each product, help to identify and organize products regardless of language barriers or country-specific regulations. GS1 (Global Standards 1 is a standard system for identifying and storing information about products that are accepted worldwide.  

Now, let’s shed light on GTIN numbers, their types, and their structure.   




What are GTIN numbers?  

GTIN numbers are a great way to keep track of products, especially internationally. They can take on different forms depending on the product and region, but their general recognition and specificity make them ideal for identification. To provide GTINs to exporters and businesses in India, the Ministry of Commerce set up GS1 India. GS1 India is affiliated with GS1 global, and this provides them with the ability to offer unique GTINs to Indian exporters.   

  

Types of GTIN numbers  

After knowing, what are GTIN numbers? Here are some commonly used types of GTIN numbers: -  


  • Universal Product Code (UPCs)- A UPC is just one of the forms of GTIN. You can find it on products throughout North America, except for multipacks or books. It's a standard product ID that helps you sell your product.  


  • International Standard Book Number (ISBN)- This is a product ID that can be used for books specifically.  


  • European Article Number (EAN)- It is the product code that is used only in Europe and Europe marketplaces.   


  • Japanese Article Marketplace (JAN)- From the name it implies, this is the product identity that is particularly used for products in Japan.  


Structure of GTIN numbers  

GTINs are a series of digits that can be used to identify a product. These strings can be 8, 12, 13, or 14 digits long, depending on the application or product. GTINs are used in different ways depending on their length - GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, and GTIN-14, respectively. It comprises the following elements: -  


  • Indicator Digit   

Numbers 1 through 8 are used to identify the packaging level information of a product. The number 9 is only used for variable measure products and such indicator digits are only used in GTIN-14.  


  • Item Reference  

An item reference number is a unique number assigned to the trade item. This number length can vary depending on the company prefix. For example, if the company prefix is 8-digits long, then the item reference number will be 4-digits long. 

 

  • GS1 company prefix  

Every trade item has a unique number that corresponds with it. The length of this number depends on the length of the company prefix. So, if a company prefix is 8 digits long, then the item reference number will be 4 digits long.  


  • Check Digit   

The final digit in a GTIN is kind of like a checksum for the preceding digits. It's a quick way of verifying that the data in the GTIN is correct.  


Conclusion  

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Also Read - Welcome to the Export Promotion Councils that Promote Textile Export from India

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