GTIN expliqué : Le système de numéro mondial d'article commercial
The complete GTIN reference: GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, GTIN-14 — structure, allocation rules, and how GTINs flow through the supply chain.
GTIN Explained: The Global Trade Item Number System
The Global Trade Item Number (GS1 Standards & Identifiers">GTIN) is the unique identifier assigned to every product in the GS1 system. Over 1 billion products carry GTINs, making it the most widely used product identification system in the world.
GTIN Formats
GTINs come in four standard lengths:
| Format | Digits | Primary Barcode | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| space." data-category="1D Linear Symbologies">EAN-8 barcodes." data-category="GS1 Standards & Identifiers">GTIN-8 | 8 | EAN-8 | Very small packages |
| UPC-A barcodes in North America." data-category="GS1 Standards & Identifiers">GTIN-12 | 12 | UPC-A | North American retail |
| EAN-13, the global standard." data-category="GS1 Standards & Identifiers">GTIN-13 | 13 | EAN-13 | Worldwide retail |
| ITF-14 barcodes on cases and pallets." data-category="GS1 Standards & Identifiers">GTIN-14 | 14 | ITF-14 | Cases and logistics units |
All four formats can be normalized to a 14-digit representation by zero-padding on the left. This simplifies database storage and comparison.
GTIN Structure
A GTIN-13 consists of:
[GS1 Prefix][Company Prefix][Item Reference][Check Digit]
3 digits variable variable 1 digit
The split between company prefix and item reference varies by prefix length. GS1 assigns the company prefix; the company assigns item references.
GTIN Allocation Rules
One product, one GTIN: Each distinct trade item receives its own GTIN. Different GTINs are required when:
- The product formulation changes significantly
- The net content changes (different size/weight)
- The packaging type changes (can vs bottle)
- The product is sold in different configurations (single vs multipack)
GTINs are not reused: A discontinued product's GTIN must not be reassigned to a new product for at least 48 months. Some industries require permanent retirement.
Packaging Hierarchy
Products exist at multiple packaging levels, each with its own GTIN:
| Level | Example | GTIN Format |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer unit | 1 bottle of shampoo | GTIN-13 (EAN-13) |
| Inner pack | 6-pack shrinkwrap | GTIN-14 (indicator 1-8) |
| Case | 24 bottles in a box | GTIN-14 (indicator 1-8) |
| Pallet | 48 cases on a pallet | SSCC (not GTIN) |
The indicator digit in GTIN-14 identifies the packaging level while maintaining the link to the base GTIN.
GTIN in Digital Commerce
Major e-commerce platforms require GTINs for product listings:
- Amazon: Required for brand-registered products
- Google Shopping: Required for all products with a GTIN
- Walmart Marketplace: Required for all listings
- eBay: Required for most categories
Products without GTINs may be delisted or receive lower search visibility.
Validating a GTIN
To validate a GTIN:
- Verify the length (8, 12, 13, or 14 digits)
- Calculate and verify the check digit (Modulo 10)
- Optionally, look up the GS1 prefix to verify the issuing organization
- Use GS1 GEPIR for ownership verification