In today’s global marketplace, retailers and online marketplaces like Amazon require a unique identifier for every product. This identifier needs to be globally unique and adhere to a worldwide standard. In the United States, this product identifier is known as the UPC barcode or GTIN-12. In this blog post, we will explore what GTIN is and how it plays a crucial role in product identification.
What is GTIN?
GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number. It is a globally recognized and standardized product identifier. The GTIN is used to uniquely identify products and enable efficient data sharing among different parties. In the United States, the GTIN is commonly represented by a UPC barcode, which consists of two primary components: a U.P.C. Company Prefix and a Product Number.
The U.P.C. Company Prefix is assigned by GS1, a global standards organization that enables companies to identify, capture, and communicate information. GS1 standards serve as the foundation for creating efficient systems and processes for data sharing across various industries. The U.P.C. Company Prefix ensures that each company has a unique identifier for their products.
The Product Number is assigned by the company itself and represents a specific product within a company’s inventory. This number, combined with the U.P.C. Company Prefix, creates a unique GTIN for each product.
Obtaining GTIN and UPC Barcodes
To obtain a GTIN and UPC barcode, companies need to follow certain procedures. GS1 offices in each country primarily license prefixes to companies and provide educational classes on GTIN management. However, they do not offer actual barcodes or direct assistance in creating them.
In the United States, Bar Code Graphics is the authority on barcoding and UPC implementation. They provide comprehensive services to help companies obtain GTINs and create accurate UPC barcodes. They guide businesses through the process of assigning GTINs and generating barcodes that comply with GS1 standards.
Conclusion
The GTIN, represented by a UPC barcode, is a crucial aspect of product identification in today’s global marketplace. It ensures that each product has a unique identifier that can be recognized and understood by retailers, online marketplaces, and consumers worldwide. Companies can obtain GTINs and UPC barcodes by working with organizations like GS1 and Bar Code Graphics, who specialize in providing the necessary guidance and support.
By embracing the GTIN system, companies can streamline their inventory management, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance the overall consumer experience. The standardized and globally recognized nature of GTINs enables seamless data sharing and fosters a more interconnected global marketplace.