The Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is a unique identifier for trade items, developed and maintained by the global organization GS1. It is widely used in various industries to identify products and streamline supply chain operations.
Historical Context
GTIN was established by GS1 in 1974, initially to improve supermarket checkout processes using the Universal Product Code (UPC). Over time, the system evolved to include additional formats, enabling its use in diverse industries globally.
Types of GTINs
GTIN-12
- Description: Used primarily in North America and represented as a 12-digit number.
- Example: 036000291452 (UPC-A format)
GTIN-13
- Description: Used internationally and represented as a 13-digit number.
- Example: 4006381333931 (EAN-13 format)
GTIN-14
- Description: Used for packaging levels of trade items and represented as a 14-digit number.
- Example: 10400383133393
GTIN-8
- Description: Used for small items with limited space for barcodes, represented as an 8-digit number.
- Example: 04210009
Key Events
- 1974: Introduction of the Universal Product Code (UPC) in the U.S.
- 2005: GS1 begins requiring GTIN-13 for all products globally.
- 2010: Adoption of GTIN by online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay to improve product listing accuracy.
Detailed Explanations
Structure of GTIN
A GTIN is structured based on the type of trade item. It typically includes the following components:
- GS1 Company Prefix: Assigned by GS1, unique to each company.
- Item Reference: Assigned by the company to identify specific products.
- Check Digit: Ensures the GTIN is correctly composed.
Example Calculation of Check Digit
For a GTIN-12, the check digit can be calculated as follows:
1. Start with GTIN without the check digit: 03600029145
2. Sum the digits in the odd positions: 0 + 6 + 0 + 2 + 1 + 5 = 14
3. Sum the digits in the even positions and multiply by 3: (3 + 0 + 0 + 9 + 4) * 3 = 48
4. Add the two results: 14 + 48 = 62
5. Subtract the result from the next highest multiple of 10: 70 - 62 = 8
6. The check digit is 8, making the GTIN-12: 036000291458
Diagrams in Mermaid Syntax
graph TD;
A[GTIN Composition]
B[GS1 Company Prefix]
C[Item Reference]
D[Check Digit]
A --> B
A --> C
A --> D
Importance and Applicability
GTIN is crucial for:
- Inventory Management: Allows for efficient tracking of products throughout the supply chain.
- Retail Operations: Facilitates quick scanning at point of sale (POS) systems.
- E-commerce: Enhances product searchability and listing accuracy on online marketplaces.
Examples and Considerations
Example in Retail
A bottle of soda with a GTIN-12 of 036000291458 is scanned at the checkout, linking to the product database for price and inventory information.
Considerations
- Global Standards Compliance: Ensure products comply with GS1 standards to avoid logistical issues.
- GTIN Allocation: Proper allocation of GTINs is crucial to avoid duplication and confusion.
Related Terms
- UPC (Universal Product Code): A specific type of GTIN used primarily in North America.
- EAN (European Article Number): An international barcode standard that is part of GTIN.
Interesting Facts
- First Product Scanned: A pack of Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit gum was the first item scanned using a UPC barcode on June 26, 1974.
Famous Quotes
“The adoption of GTINs in our supply chain marked a revolution in product identification and inventory management.” - [Industry Leader]
FAQs
What is the purpose of GTIN?
How is a GTIN assigned?
Can GTINs be reused?
References
- GS1: www.gs1.org
- Amazon Seller Central: GTIN Requirement
Summary
The Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is an essential identifier in global trade, crucial for efficient supply chain management, retail operations, and e-commerce. With a standardized structure and global applicability, GTINs ensure products are uniquely identified and accurately tracked. Understanding and implementing GTINs is vital for businesses operating in the modern market landscape.
