The Foodservice GS1 US Standards Initiative
Product and Location Identification
Implementation Guide
Table of Contents
Overview ................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Getting Started - Obtain a Company Prefix from GS1 US ................................................................................................. 4
Assigning Identification Numbers ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Identification Number Basics ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) .................................................................................................................................. 7
Global Location Numbers (GLNs) ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Serial Shipping Container Codes (SSCCs) ......................................................................................................................... 7
Barcode Symbologies Used for the GS1 US Foodservice Initiative ................................................................................... 8
Match the Barcode to the Business Application ............................................................................................................. 10
UPC-A / EAN-13 ............................................................................................................................................................... 11
ITF-14 ................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
GS1-128 with GTIN and Additional Data .......................................................................................................................... 11
GS1-128 for SSCC ............................................................................................................................................................ 12
Select a Barcode Printing Method ..................................................................................................................................... 12
Determine Correct Barcode Placement ............................................................................................................................ 13
Develop a Barcode Quality Plan ........................................................................................................................................ 14
Minimum Requirements for the Foodservice GS1 US Initiative ..................................................................................... 15
Assigning GTINs ............................................................................................................................................................... 15
GTIN Allocation ................................................................................................................................................................. 15
The Guiding Principle for GTIN Allocation: ....................................................................................................................... 16
GTIN Allocation Reference Examples for Foodservice..................................................................................................... 17
Assigning GLNs ................................................................................................................................................................ 18
Additional Important Information ....................................................................................................................................... 18
Advanced Product and Location Identification ............................................................................................................... 19
Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) ................................................................................................................................ 19
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Assigning Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) ............................................................................................................... 19
GTIN Data Structures ........................................................................................................................................................ 21
GTIN Assignment and Product Hierarchies ...................................................................................................................... 24
GTIN Allocation ................................................................................................................................................................. 24
The Guiding Principle for GTIN Allocation: ....................................................................................................................... 25
GTIN Allocation Reference Examples for Foodservice..................................................................................................... 26
Global Location Numbers (GLNs) ..................................................................................................................................... 27
Assigning Global Location Numbers (GLNs) .................................................................................................................... 27
Assigning Serial Shipping Container Codes (SSCCs) ...................................................................................................... 29
Appendix A: Foodservice Application Identifiers (Case & Pallet Identification) .......................................................... 31
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Overview
This document is intended to describe the basic steps required for foodservice manufacturers, distributors, and operators
to understand and implement GS1 system identification numbers and barcodes in support of the Foodservice GS1 US
Standards Initiative.
The GS1 System of standards is based on three main elements that improve supply chain efficiency:
Identify
The GS1 System of identification standards transforms things, places and organizations into numbers. Highly structured
numbering systems are critical to the information systems that form the backbone of an efficient and safe supply chain.
For example, GS1 Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) are used to identify consumer items, such as cans of food, or
standard product groupings such as cartons, cases, and pallets.
GTINs can identify a specific type of product, such as all 16-ounce boxes of XYZ-brand beef patties, or they can be
serialized to uniquely identify each box of those patties.
GS1 Global Location Numbers (GLNs) can be used to identify physical locations such as office buildings, factories,
processing plants, and legal and functional entities, such as corporations, divisions, or departments.
Capture
After identification numbers have been assigned, they are transformed by specialized software into the printed bars and
spaces that make up a barcode. Barcodes support the accurate and efficient capture of the unique identification numbers
at various points as products move through the supply chain, and the data is captured and stored in internal systems for a
wide variety of additional uses.
Share
In addition to use for internal business processes such as shipping, receiving, and inventory control, the captured data is
also available to be shared with trading partners through eCommerce transactions.
Advanced Ship Notices (ASNs) are but one example of how shared information is used to improve business processes
between trading partners. The ASN precedes the physical flow of product to a trading partner, allowing for improved
receiving efficiency, more accurate inventory control, and reduced costs.
Getting Started - Obtain a Company Prefix from GS1 US
Prior to using barcodes for identification, capture, and sharing within the supply chain identification, organizations must
create the unique numbers that go inside the barcode. These numbers are used to link the information about a product
with the flow of business transactions to the physical flow of those products. The first step in building an identification
number is to obtain a Company Prefix from GS1 US. To obtain a company prefix, visit: http://www.gs1us.org/get-started/ineed-a-gs1-company-prefix and complete a Partner Connections membership application. Partner Connections
members are licensed a Company Prefix as a benefit of membership.
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The Company Prefix is a constant in every GS1 identification number structure, and forms the foundation of unique
identification in the supply chain. Company Prefixes vary in length depending on the quantity of identification numbers that
your company may need to create.
See the table below to determine the length of company prefix your company requires based on the volume of trade items
that may require numbers for your company.
Company Prefix Length Vs Number of GTINs Created
Company Prefix Length
Item Reference Length
Six Digits
Five Digits
(NNNNN)
100,000 Trade Items
Seven Digits (NNNNNNN)
Four Digits
(NNNN)
10,000 Trade Items
Eight Digits
(NNNNNNNN)
Three Digits
(NNN)
1,000 Trade Items
Nine Digits
(NNNNNNNNN)
Two Digits
(NN)
100 Trade Items
(NNNNNN)
Number of GTINs Enabled
A Sample Company Prefix Certificate
GS1 US
0614141
0614141
0614141778898
614141
Changes to Use/Registration of Company Prefixes
If your company has been through or is in the process of a merger, acquisition, name change, or a transfer of a GS1 US
Company Prefix is needed, there are specific steps you must take with regard to your prefix.
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Important: The basic rules for the management of the Company Prefix are listed below, but for answers to specific
questions, contact GS1 US at 937.435.3870; and select option 8.
•
GS1 Company Prefixes are only transferable when specifically identified as part of the transaction in a merger or
acquisition. In all other situations, the new company must apply for their own GS1 Company Prefix.
•
When a company is acquired, or is merged with another company, GS1 US requires a letter from the “Executive”
contact of the company that was originally assigned the GS1 Company Prefix. You will also need to complete a
Company Profile Form in order to update the records maintained by GS1 US.
•
•
•
If the Company Prefix is included in the purchase, the acquiring company may continue to use the
acquired GS1 Company Prefix to assign identification numbers.
•
If the purchase does not include the GS1 Company Prefix, then the acquiring company has up to one
year to transition to another Company Prefix to assign identification numbers.
When a company splits into two or more separate companies it is necessary for each GS1 Company Prefix
assigned to the original company to be transferred to only one of the new companies.
•
Any company left without a GS1 Company Prefix will need to apply to GS1 US to obtain one.
•
If a company is split up and the GS1 Company Prefix is included as an asset with one of the new
companies the “other company” must acquire a new GS1 Company Prefix from GS1 US.
If the name of your company changes, you will also need to complete a Company Profile Form in order to update
the records maintained by GS1 US. For more information on completing an update, contact the GS1 US
Customer Service team at +1 937.435.3870; select option 8.
Assigning Identification Numbers
After receiving a Company Prefix, a company may begin assigning identification numbers to their trade items, locations,
and logistics units. Each type of identification number has a specific format that combines your company prefix with
reference numbers that you assign in order to create globally unique identification numbers.
Methods for assigning identification numbers vary based on a number of factors including organizational strategy, current
business practices, and customer requirements.
This document recognizes that different methods are used, and provides guidance to organizations who
implement the minimum requirements of this initiative, or who decide to employ more advanced identification
strategies.
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Identification Number Basics
Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs)
The GTIN is a unique GS1 System identification number and is a globally accepted 8, 12, 13, or 14-digit number used for
trade item identification. It is recommended that a GTIN be represented in all software applications as 14 digits by right
justifying and zero filling left, as appropriate.
A trade item is any item (product or service) upon which there is a need to retrieve pre-defined information and that may
be priced, or ordered, or invoiced at any point in any supply chain. This definition covers services and products, from raw
materials through to end user products, all of which may have pre-defined characteristics. Example of trade items that
may be identified with GTINs includes pallets, totes, barrels, cases, inner packs, and even individual items.
GTINs serve multiple roles in the supply chain as they can be encoded in a variety of barcodes based on informational
requirements, and shared with trading partners in a variety of popular electronic formats such as the Global Data
Synchronization Network® (GDSN®) and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions.
The brand owner for the GTIN is responsible for determining how to assign these numbers, and the receiver (distributor or
operator) depends on the manufacturer or brand owner to ensure uniqueness. Contract manufacturers should obtain
GTINs for private label trade items from the brand owner.
Global Location Numbers (GLNs)
The GLN provides a standard means to identify legal entities, trading parties and locations to support the requirements of
electronic commerce. The GLN is a globally unique 13 digit number designed to improve the efficiency of integrated
logistics while contributing added value to all partners involved in the supply chain. The GLN is a required component of
the GDSN and other types of e-commerce transactions. They are most commonly used on purchase orders, and delivery
and payment documents.
Examples of parties and locations that can be identified with GLNs include:
•
•
•
Legal Entities - Manufacturers, distributors, and operators, either the whole company, or a division or subsidiary.
Functional entities - Such as a purchasing or accounting department within a legal entity
Physical locations – Such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or restaurant, or a particular unique location within
one of those facilities such as a loading dock, delivery point, a particular room, or other defined location.
Important: If your organization is not a brand owner responsible for GTIN assignment, but you do need to assign
GLNs, GS1 has a program to obtain a company prefix to enable GLN identification. To get more information, visit
http://barcodes.gs1us.org/dnn_bcec/Default.aspx and complete a Partner Connections membership application.
Partner Connections members are licensed a Company Prefix as a benefit of membership.
Serial Shipping Container Codes (SSCCs)
The SSCC is used to Link barcoded information on a logistics unit with the Advance Ship Notice (ASN). An ASN is a
notification of pending deliveries similar to a packing list and is known as the EDI 856 document in X12 EDI. The ASN
provides the contents of a shipment plus additional information ahead of a shipment to speed the receipt of trade items by
the receiver to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
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Barcode Symbologies Used for the GS1 US Foodservice Initiative
A barcode is the data carrier or symbology used to enable the automatic electronic capture of information about the trade
item or product. The GTIN is the primary data element encoded within barcode symbologies for the foodservice industry.
There are a number of symbologies or data carriers used today in the foodservice industry to support bar coding of
products. The level of information encoded into the barcodes differ dependant on the barcode symbology used. All
barcode formats with the exception of the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) contain a Global Trade Item Number
(GTIN). The U. S. foodservice supply chain utilizes the following barcodes for product and location identification.
Current Foodservice Barcodes
SSCC
Pallet
Fixed-Weight and
Variable-Weight
(Serialized Shipping
Container Code)
GS1-128 with AI
“00”
Case
Fixed-Weight and
Variable-Weight
Case
Fixed-Weight
GS1-128
ITF-14
UPC-A
Consumer Item
UPC-E
Fixed-Weight
EAN-8
EAN-13
Consumer Item
Variable-Weight
UPC-Type 2
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Consumer Item
Fixed and
Variable-Weight
Available January,
2010
GS1 DataBar
Stacked
Omnidirectional
for Produce
GS1 DataBar
Expanded
Stacked for
Meats
(01) 00614141000039 (3202) 000123 (15) 020101(3922) 567
The GS1-128 barcode is used for the SSSC, an 18-digit number used for the unique identification of logistics units.
Typical foodservice practice is to assign an SSCC to each pallet of mixed trade item cases, each of which is identified with
a GTIN. The SSCC is unique for that individual logistics unit based on the combination of your company’s GS1 Company
Prefix number and a serial number that you create to ensure a globally unique SSCC.
The GS1-128 barcode is also used when there is a need to capture additional information about a case or pallet of trade
items. This symbology not only encodes trade item data, but provides a method to encode and share different data types
defined by the GS1 System, such as best before date, batch / lot number, and serial number (up to 48 characters). This is
accomplished by utilizing Application Identifiers (AI’s) that uniquely define both the additional data format and its meaning.
The most commonly used Application Identifiers used in the foodservice industry include weight of a variable weight case,
and dates that enable shelf-life management. Dating information may vary based on the product type or customer
requirements. The following describes the dating Application Identifiers used most frequently for foodservice:

Production Date (AI 11) – The production date is the production or assembly date determined by the manufacturer.
This AI is used when there are requirements to know the age of product.

Packaging Date (AI 13) – The packaging date is the date when the goods were packed as determined by the
packager. This AI should be used if the process that you use alters the life of the product such as cooking or freezing
a refrigerated product

Best Before Date (AI15) – The best before date indicates the ideal consumption or best effective use date of a
product. It is a statement about quality, and is often referred to as a sell by date. This type of date should be used on
product destined for and that will be viewed by end customers.

Use-By Dating/Best-By Date (AI17) – The expiration date is the date that determines the limit of consumption or use
of a product. Its meaning is determined based on the trade item context (e.g., for food, the date will indicate the
possibility of a direct health risk resulting from use of the product after the date. It is often referred to as "use by date".
This type of date should be used in those industries where product is going to be used in another process. Its
advantage is that it shows the user the last date a product can be used.
Important: See Appendix A for a listing of all of the most common AIs used in foodservice
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The ITF-14 barcode is widely used in the foodservice industry for fixed weight cases of product. The ITF-14 barcode is
used when only the GTIN is required to be captured with the scan of the barcode. The ITF-14 is typically used for direct
printing on corrugated, but may also be used on pre-printed labels applied to cases.
UPC/EAN barcodes are typically used for POS to the consumer and are not widely used in foodservice supply chain.
GS1-DataBar Stacked Omnidirectional symbology is being implemented by some manufacturers in the produce category.
GS1-Databar Expanded Stacked Symbology enables the encodation of up to 74 characters of data about the consumer
level product and is being adopted by some specific industries such as meat and poultry which require additional data.
All of these symbologies offer the foodservice industry options to select from based on the both the type and amount of
data that is required. Prior to adoption of a specific symbology, it is important to understand the required infrastructures
and costs to implement and maintain each type of barcode symbology. Factors such as specific product categories and
trading relationships may impact your selection. The need to attach real-time product information specific to an individual
case of product may lead you towards adoption of the GS1-128 symbology. There are significant up-front and long-term
production costs associated with the adoption of this symbology, so a thorough cost/benefit analysis should be performed
based on a review of both internal and trading partner requirements.
Match the Barcode to the Business Application
Factors including where the symbol will be scanned, the type of data encoded in the symbol, and how the symbol will be
printed impact the selection of the correct barcode for a given business application. The scanning environment of your
customer should be considered in the barcode selection process. Each type of barcode has a specific format that
combines your company prefix with unique reference numbers that you assign. The barcodes used with the GS1 US
Foodservice Initiative are illustrated below:
Barcode
Business Application
Data Type Encoded
UPC-A
EAN-13
Primary use is trade item identification at retail point
of sale(includes units such as inner packs or cases
that may be sold at retail), but may be used in
general distribution scanning when printed on labels
with magnification of 150% - 200% of nominal size
GTIN only
ITF-14
Trade item identification in General Distribution
GTIN only
GS1-128
Trade item identification in General Distribution
GTIN plus additional data such as Weight,
Batch / Lot Number or Serial Number
GS1-128
Logistics unit identification in General Distribution
Serial Shipping Container Code
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UPC-A / EAN-13
These barcodes are typically used to identify trade items intended to pass point-of-sale. This may include cases or inner
packs if they are sold at retail. Sizes from 80% to 200% of the nominal size are allowed for retail items, and between
150% and two hundred percent (200%) when printed on a label that is affixed to the case. The minimum, nominal, and
maximum magnifications for these barcodes are shown below using the UPC-A barcode as the example:
Minimum (80%)
Nominal (100%)
Maximum (200%)
ITF-14
ITF-14 is a GS1 System barcode that may be used to encode assigned GTINs for standard product groupings such as
cartons, cases, and pallets. Trade items marked with ITF-14 symbols are NOT intended to pass through retail point-ofsale. This barcode is typically used for direct printing on corrugate based on the barcode’s simple construction, and the
lower reflectance of corrugated materials.
GS1-128 with GTIN and Additional Data
GS1-128 is a GS1 System barcode that may used to encode assigned GTINs for standard product groupings such as
cartons, cases, and pallets. This barcode provides additional benefits beyond the ITF-14 barcode as the symbology not
only encodes the GTIN, but provides a method for encoding and sharing a total of up to 48 characters of information that
may include a variety of different specific data types defined by the GS1 System, such as Case Weight, Best Before Date,
Batch / Lot Number, and Serial Number.
This is accomplished by using GS1 System Application Identifiers (AI’s) that uniquely define both the data format and its
meaning. The combination of unique identification and standardized data content makes this symbology good for sharing
additional data in the supply chain between suppliers, distributors, operators, retailers, and logistic service providers.
Important: See Appendix A for a listing of the most common AIs for foodservice applications
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Application
Identifier
GTIN
Batch
Application
Lot
Number
Identifier
GS1-128 for SSCC
When used as the “license plate” to identify specific information about cartons, pallets or even trailer loads of products, the
SSCC supports moving products from one trading partner to another quickly and efficiently. The SSCC provides a link
between barcoded information on a logistics unit and the information that is communicated between trading partners via
the Advanced Ship Notice (ASN)
Application
Identifier
Extension
Digit
GS1
Company
Prefix
Serial
Reference
Check
Digit
Select a Barcode Printing Method
After a barcode symbology has been selected based on the scanning environment and type of data to be encoded, a
decision must be made on the method of printing the barcodes for the trade item. Many factors influence this decision,
including required volumes and whether the barcode contains static or dynamic data.
Static Barcode Data
If the barcode contains static data and a large volume of labels or preprinted cartons are required, consider using preprinted labels or an external printing company.
For small volumes of labels with static data, consider on-demand printers such as laser or thermal transfer.
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Dynamic Barcode Data
High volumes of labels that contain dynamic data may impact current production processes and costs associated with the
development of in-line-printing and programming to capture the dynamic data for each case of product.
For small volumes of labels with dynamic data, consider on-demand printers such as laser or thermal transfer.
Important: With both methods, barcode quality is an essential step of the process. See the section of this document
on developing a barcode quality plan for more information on barcode quality and verification.
Barcode Printing Methods and Considerations
Barcode
Type
Business Application
Barcode Printing Method
Trade item identification at Retail Point
of Sale or General Distribution
Printed on trade item (or labels for general distribution)
Trade item identification in General
Distribution (GTIN only)
May be printed directly on corrugate, or on pre-printed
or labels applied to the corrugate
GS1-128
Trade item identification in General
Distribution (GTIN plus extended data)
Typically printed on labels only
GS1-128
Logistics unit identification in General
Distribution (SSCC)
Typically printed on labels only
EAN/UPC
ITF-14
Additional Considerations
Trade item volume and financial
impact based on internal versus
external printing and static versus
dynamic barcode data
Typically printed internally with on
demand printers
Determine Correct Barcode Placement
Many distribution and warehouse management systems use automated barcode scanning systems in order to increase
the efficiency of shipping, receiving, inventory control, load building, and other distribution and logistics functions. In an
automated scanning environment, the symbol must be placed in a standardized position in order to always pass through
the field of vision of a fixed scanner.
Although at least one side of all General Distribution Scanning items shall display barcode information, it is recommended
that two adjacent sides of the item carry a barcode symbol with the exact same data. The GS1 System barcode
placement guideline for pallets, tote boxes, cartons, and cases, is illustrated below:
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Barcode Placement for Pallets
and Tote Boxes
Barcode Placement for Cartons and Cases
Target Maximum
32 Inches
Target Minimum
16 Inches
Target height for the bottom of the bar code is between 16 inches and 32 inches
from the base of the pallet. For pallet less than 16 inches high, the bar code
should be placed as high as possible while protecting the bar code.
Develop a Barcode Quality Plan
As industries have become more global in nature, the importance of barcode quality becomes even more critical. A
problem with barcode quality is no longer a “local issue” when your trading partner is half a world away. The use of
automated systems in warehouses and distribution centers is becoming more widespread, and for these systems to work
effectively, the data content, format, and print quality must all be accurate.
Data Content and Format
Barcodes are only as good as their encoded data. Each type of GS1 identification number has a specific format that
combines your company prefix with reference numbers that you assign. A barcode that contains the wrong data, or does
not scan, creates critical interruptions in the supply chain, adding unnecessary expense and delays to essential business
processes. To ensure backup for barcodes that may become damaged in transit, the data encoded within the barcode
should be printed in human readable format on the label or corrugate.
Determining Barcode Quality
Barcode quality is determined by precise measurements that are made by a device called a barcode verifier. A barcode
verifier is used to assess quality measurements that include critical aspects of barcode print quality. The overall quality is
expressed in either a numerical or a letter grade ranging from 0.0 (F) to 4.0 (A). The GS1 System sets standards for
minimum quality measurements for each type of barcode.
GS1 US Information Resources for Barcode Quality
The GS1 US Solutions Center offers several products that help organizations understand more about the technical
requirements of a barcode quality programs including:

Guidelines for Producing Quality Symbols, Quality Control Practices for Barcode Verification, and Barcode
Verification for Linear Symbologies
Internal Vs. External Quality Control Programs
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The decision made on the barcode printing method in step 4 will often provide guidance on whether to utilize internal
versus external resources for a barcode quality program. If a decision is made to utilize external printing, be sure to
discuss barcode quality requirements as a part of the process when selecting a printer. If internal resources will manage
barcode quality, it is critical that appropriate hardware and software are obtained, and that ongoing training is developed
and maintained to ensure acceptable barcode quality.
GS1 US Barcode Verification Services
GS1 US offers barcode verification services to determine if your barcodes comply with GS1 Standards. For more
information, visit http://www.gs1us.org/resources/services/barcode-verification-services.
Minimum Requirements for the Foodservice GS1 US Initiative
As noted above, methods for assigning identification numbers vary based on a number of factors including organizational
strategy, current business practices, and customer requirements. This section of the document will describe the minimum
recommended requirements for the Foodservice GS1 US Standards Initiative.
Assigning GTINs
The brand owner is responsible for GTIN assignment. Manufacturers should obtain GTINs from the brand owner for
private label trade items. GTINs are used for identification of trade items that cross point of sale, as well as trade items
that are scanned in general distribution.
The primary consideration for assignment of a GTIN to any level of the hierarchy includes a determination of whether or
not the trade item may be priced, or ordered, or invoiced at any point in any supply chain. Manufacturers who have not yet
established a strategy or assigned GTINS to their products should evaluate the needs of their trading partners in order to
identify specific levels of the product hierarchy that may require assignment of GTINS.
Historically, foodservice industry practice is based on GTIN assignment at the case level of a trade item hierarchy, as the
case is the most common unit of measure for commerce within the foodservice supply chain.
Inner-packs of cases are rarely the buying, invoicing, or shipping unit used in foodservice. However, there are exceptions
based on product categories such as spices that are sometimes sold at the inner-pack level by a distributor to an operator
based on the need to inventory at a level lower than the case unit. In these situations, manufacturers should assign
GTINS to the inner-pack level of the trade item hierarchy.
Pallet level ordering and invoicing is not common practice in foodservice. If pallets are priced, ordered, or invoiced at
any point in any supply chain, they should be assigned GTINs
If the case level is the lowest level of the trade item hierarchy that is priced, ordered, or invoiced at any point in any supply
chain, manufacturers who have established a strategy for GTIN assignment across their product hierarchies where the
case is the lowest level of the product hierarchy assigned a GTIN are in compliance with the minimum requirements of the
GS1 US Foodservice Initiative.
GTIN Allocation
GTIN allocation rules exist for determining when GS1 member companies assign new GTINs based on product changes.
The rules cover a wide variety of situations including changes to packaging, the product itself, promotional and seasonal
items, description changes that are relevant to the trading process, and changes to measurements or weight, among
Page 15
many others. Based on their volume and complexities the rules are too detailed to list in this document. The guiding
principle and fundamental rules are listed below, but be sure to visit the GS1 GTIN Allocation Rules website at
http://www.gs1.org/1/gtinrules/admin.php/p=overview to check your specific situation against the rules. If you still have
questions, contact your GS1 US representative and they will work with you to resolve the question.
The Guiding Principle for GTIN Allocation:
If the customer is expected to distinguish a new trade item from an old trade item and purchase accordingly, a new GTIN
should be assigned to the new trade item. A separate, unique GTIN is required whenever any of the pre-defined
characteristics of an item are different in any way that impacts the trading process.
•
The basic pre-defined characteristics of a trade item include:
–
Product name, brand, or description
–
The trade item type and variety such as color, flavor or scent
–
The quantity of a trade item such as net weight, volume, or count.
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–
If any gross dimension (e.g., height, width, depth, or gross weight) changes by more than 20 percent, a new
GTIN is required. This rule is cumulative and is based on the life cycle of the GTIN.
–
Changes below 20 percent may be assigned a new GTIN at the discretion of the brand owner.
–
A change to a GTIN for the trade item at a lower level of packaging such as the each or inner pack will
always lead to a change of any GTIN used for packaging at higher grouping levels such as the case if the
lower levels are assigned GTINs.
GTIN Allocation Reference Examples for Foodservice
The following examples are used as references to provide guidance on “real world” foodservice changes that impact GTIN
allocation decisions:

If the cooking oil used in or on a product changes from one type of vegetable oil to another, a new GTIN is not
required. But if the cooking oil changes from vegetable to peanut, a new GTIN would be required.

If a minor adjustment is made to the quantity of jalapeno pepper, a new GTIN is not required. But if the product
changes from “mild” to “hot”, a new GTIN would be required.

If the blend of tomatoes used as ingredients were changed, a new GTIN is not required. But if the change is from
“organic” to “non organic”, a new GTIN would be required.

Manufacturing improvements that result in less “overfills” do not require a new GTIN as long as the declared
content does not change.
Actual Wt. 17 ozs.

Actual Wt. 16.5 ozs.
Minor packaging changes that do not impact trading partners do not require a new GTIN.
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Changes must not impact other GTIN Rules!

Changes to “random or assorted” mixes do not require a new GTIN, as long the mix changes do not impact
consumer declarations or trading partners.
As long as mix changes
do not impact consumer
declarations or trading partners

Different Pallet configurations require new GTINs
Assigning GLNs
Participants who assign their headquarters a GLN are in compliance with the minimum requirements of the GS1 US
Foodservice Initiative.
Additional Important Information
Additional important information about GTIN data structures and barcodes, including matching the barcode to the
business application, selecting barcode printing methods, barcode placement, and developing a barcode quality plan are
found in other sections of this document. Please review the table of contents to find, review, and use this information.
Important: Review the table of contents for other important information on GTIN data structures and barcodes
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Advanced Product and Location Identification
After receiving a Company Prefix, a company may begin assigning identification numbers to their trade items, locations,
and logistics units. Each type of identification number has a specific format that combines your company prefix with
unique reference numbers that you assign. Methods for assigning identification numbers vary based on a number of
factors including organizational strategy, current business practices, and customer requirements.
This document recognizes that different methods are used, and provides guidance to organizations who implement the
minimum requirements of this initiative, or who decide to employ more advanced identification strategies. This section of
the document is intended for those organizations who want to understand and perhaps implement the best practice
recommendations of GS1 US for product and location identification. These best practice recommendations are based on
experiences gained in implementing the GS1 System across more than twenty three industry sectors.
Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs)
The GTIN is a unique GS1 System identification number and is a globally accepted 8, 12, 13, or 14-digit number used for
trade item identification. It is recommended that a GTIN be represented in all software applications as 14 digits by right
justifying and zero filling left, as appropriate.
A trade item is any item (product or service) upon which there is a need to retrieve pre-defined information and that may
be priced, or ordered, or invoiced at any point in any supply chain. This definition covers services and products, from raw
materials through to end user products, all of which may have pre-defined characteristics. Examples of trade items that
may be identified with GTINs includes pallets, totes, barrels, cases, inner packs, and individual items.
GTINs serve multiple roles in the supply chain as they can be encoded in a variety of barcodes based on informational
requirements, and shared with trading partners in a variety of popular electronic formats such as the Global Data
Synchronization Network® (GDSN®) and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions.
GTINs can be combined with other information in barcodes to resolve issues such as Supply Chain Visibility and Product
Safety when combined with other data such as serial numbers, batch or lot numbers, and production or expiration dates.
Assigning Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs)
In order to function properly, the GS1 System depends on unique product identification. The basic rules for GTIN
assignment for the Foodservice GS1 US Initiative are listed below:

The manufacturer or brand owner determines GTIN assignment.

Each trade item that is ordered, shipped, or invoiced at any point in any supply chain must have a unique GTIN

The receiver (Retailer / Operator) depends on the manufacturer or brand owner to ensure uniqueness

Contract manufacturers should obtain the GTIN from the brand owner
Page 19
Trade Item Hierarchy and GTIN Assignment Best Practices:

It is recommended that all levels of the packaging hierarchy from the each to the pallet be assigned a unique
GTIN. if they that may be priced, or ordered, or invoiced at any point in any supply chain. Assigning numbers to
every level of the product hierarchy, even though they may not be physically marked with a barcode, or initially
used internally or shared with trading partners, creates flexibility to handle changes in customer requirements,
marking or eCommerce strategies, or other conditions that may change in the future.
Important: Assigning a GTIN to a product may not require its use in labeling or data synchronization.
The examples below are intended to illustrate this approach to trade item identification

Each unique trade item must have a unique GTIN (e.g., oatmeal and soup, red beans and green beans)

Different sizes or counts of the same item must have unique GTINs (e.g. 8 Oz Vs 16 Oz, 10 count Vs 20 count)

Different case counts of the same product must have unique GTINs (24 count Vs 48 count)

Every intermediate packaging level must have a unique GTIN (each, inner pack, case, pallet)
Page 20
GTIN Data Structures
GTIN-12
GTIN-12 data structures are typically used for those trade items that are intended to cross point of sale. The UPC-A
barcode is used to encode this data structure. The UPC-A is accepted for general distribution scanning at between 150%
and 200% magnification when printed on a label that is affixed to the case. The steps for creating this identification
number are listed below:
GTIN-12 Data Structure
Structure
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3

In this example the U.P.C. Company Prefix 614141 fills the first six positions in the barcode
Step 2 (Item Reference Number)
o

GS1 US U.P.C. Company Prefix & Item Reference
N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
Step 1 (U.P.C. Company Prefix)
o

N1
6
6
6
Check
Digit
N12
2
2
2
The Company Prefix and the company assigned reference number for a GTIN-12 data structure will
always equal eleven digits. The company prefix in this example is six digits, so the assigned item
reference number must equal five digits. In the example, 54321 will be used as the company assigned
item reference number and fills positions seven through eleven.
Step 3 (Check Digit)
o
Position twelve is reserved for a check digit for the entire GTIN. Barcode printing software creates the
check digit from the preceding eleven digits. In this example, the calculated check digit 2 is placed in
position twelve. A check digit calculator is available on the GS1 US website at www.gs1us.org/checkdigit.
Page 21
GTIN-13
GTIN-13 data structures are typically used for those trade items that are intended to cross point of sale. The EAN-13
barcode is used to encode this data structure. The EAN-13 is accepted for general distribution scanning at between 150%
and 200% magnification when printed on a label that is affixed to the case. The steps for creating this identification
number are listed below:
GTIN-13 Data Structure
Check
Digit
GS1 Company Prefix & Item Reference
Structure N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11 N12

0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
2
Step 2
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
2
Step 3
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
2
In this example the GS1 Company Prefix 0614141 fills the first seven positions in the barcode
Step 2 (Item Reference Number)
o

Step 1
Step 1 (U.P.C. Company Prefix)
o

N13
The Company Prefix and the company assigned reference number for a GTIN-13 data structure will
always equal twelve digits. The company prefix in this example is seven digits, so the assigned item
reference number must equal five digits. In the example, 54321 will be used as the company assigned
item reference number and fills positions seven through eleven.
Step 3 (Check Digit)
o
Position twelve is reserved for a check digit for the entire GTIN. Barcode printing software creates the
check digit from the preceding eleven digits. In this example, the calculated check digit 2 is placed in
position twelve. A check digit calculator is available on the GS1 US website at www.gs1us.org/checkdigit.
GTIN-14
Page 22
GTIN-14 data structures are used to identify those trade items that are NOT intended to cross point of sale such as inner
packs, cases, and pallets. An ITF-14 barcode is used to illustrate the GTIN structure as encoded in a barcode. The steps
for creating this identification number are listed below. A GS1-128 barcode is also shown as a reference:
GTIN-14 Data Structure
Structure
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4

The GS1 Company Prefix of 0614141 fills positions two through eight.
Step 3 (Item Reference)
o

This step creates the indicator digit for the GTIN-14 data structure. Numerals 1-8 are available to create
up to eight different levels of packaging for the GTIN-12 ID number that represents the unit level. In this
example, an indicator of 1 is used in the first position to represent a level of packaging such as an inner
pack or case that is above the unit level that relates to the unit level.
Step 2 (GS1 Company Prefix)
o

GS1 US GS1 Company Prefix & Item Reference
N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11 N12 N13
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
5
4
3
2
1
Check
Digit
N14
9
9
9
9
Step 1 (Indicator Digit)
o

Indicator
Digit
N1
1
1
1
1
The Company Prefix and the company assigned reference number for a GTIN-14 data structure will
always equal twelve digits. The GS1 Company Prefix in this example is seven digits, so the assigned item
reference number must equal five digits. In the example, 54321 will be used as the company assigned
item reference number and fills positions nine through thirteen.
Step 4 (Check Digit)
o
Position fourteen is reserved for a check digit for the entire GTIN. Barcode printing software creates the
check digit from the preceding thirteen digits. In this example, the calculated check digit 9 is placed in
Page 23
position fourteen. A check digit calculator is available on the GS1 US website at
www.gs1us.org/checkdigit.
GTIN Assignment and Product Hierarchies
When assigning GTINs to different packaging levels of a trade item hierarchy, the indicator digit is used to indicate each
successive level of the packaging that is related to a specific trade item as shown below. The indicator digit for the lowest
level starts with zero, and a different indicator digit is used for each higher level of packaging. In the foodservice industry,
the lowest level may or may NOT be a retail unit marked for point-of-sale.
The example below shows a recommended approach for GTIN assignment for a hierarchy of all the same fixed
measure trade items.
GTIN Assignment Illustrating Indicator Digit Method for Fixed Measure Trade Items
960 Cans of Beans
7
5
48 Cans of Beans
12 Cans of Beans 2
1 Can of Beans
0
0614141
0614141
0614141
0614141
Indicator
Digit
32160
32160
32160
32160
C (Pallet of Product)
C (Next Level of Product)
C (Next Level of Product)
C (Lowest Unit of Product)
Same Item Reference
Important: If the case or pallet level of a trade item hierarchy is variable weight, the indicator digit must be a nine (9).
GTIN Allocation
GTIN allocation rules exist for determining when GS1 member companies assign new GTINs based on product changes.
The rules cover a wide variety of situations including changes to packaging, the product itself, promotional and seasonal
items, description changes that are relevant to the trading process, and changes to measurements or weight, among
many others. Based on their volume and complexities the rules are too detailed to list in this document. The guiding
principle and fundamental rules are listed below, but be sure to visit the GS1 GTIN Allocation Rules website at
http://www.gs1.org/1/gtinrules/admin.php/p=overview to check your specific situation against the rules. If you still have
questions, contact your GS1 US representative and they will work with you to resolve the question.
Page 24
The Guiding Principle for GTIN Allocation:
If the customer is expected to distinguish a new trade item from an old trade item and purchase accordingly, a new GTIN
should be assigned to the new trade item. A separate, unique GTIN is required whenever any of the pre-defined
characteristics of an item are different in any way that impacts the trading process.
•
The basic pre-defined characteristics of a trade item include:
–
Product name, brand, or description
–
The trade item type and variety such as color, flavor or scent
–
The quantity of a trade item such as net weight, volume, or count.
–
If any gross dimension (e.g., height, width, depth, or gross weight) changes by more than 20 percent, a new
GTIN is required. This rule is cumulative and is based on the life cycle of the GTIN.
–
Changes below 20 percent may be assigned a new GTIN at the discretion of the brand owner.
Page 25
A change to a GTIN for the trade item at a lower level of packaging such as the each or inner pack will always
lead to a change of any GTIN used for packaging at higher grouping levels such as the case if the lower levels
are assigned GTINs.
GTIN Allocation Reference Examples for Foodservice
The following examples are used as references to provide guidance on “real world” foodservice changes that impact GTIN
allocation decisions:

If the cooking oil used in or on a product changes from one type of vegetable oil to another, a new GTIN is not
required. But if the cooking oil changes from vegetable to peanut, a new GTIN would be required.

If a minor adjustment is made to the quantity of jalapeno pepper, a new GTIN is not required. But if the product
changes from “mild” to “hot”, a new GTIN would be required.

If the blend of tomatoes used as ingredients were changed, a new GTIN is not required. But if the change is from
“organic” to “non organic”, a new GTIN would be required.

Manufacturing improvements that result in less “overfills” do not require a new GTIN as long as the declared
content does not change.
Actual Wt. 17 ozs.

Actual Wt. 16.5 ozs.
Minor packaging changes that do not impact trading partners do not require a new GTIN.
Changes must not impact other GTIN Rules!

Changes to “random or assorted” mixes do not require a new GTIN, as long the mix changes do not impact
consumer declarations or trading partners.
As long as mix changes
do not impact consumer
declarations or trading partners
Page 26

Different Pallet configurations require new GTINs
Global Location Numbers (GLNs)
The GLN provides a standard means to identify legal entities, trading parties and locations to support the requirements of
electronic commerce. The GLN is a globally unique 13 digit number designed to improve the efficiency of integrated
logistics while contributing added value to all partners involved in the supply chain. The GLN is a required component of
the GDSN and other types of e-commerce transactions. They are most commonly used on purchase orders, and delivery
and payment documents.
Examples of parties and locations that can be identified with GLNs include:
•
•
•
Legal Entities & Trading Partners – e.g., manufacturers, distributors, and operators, including whole companies,
divisions, or subsidiaries.
Functional entities - e.g., a purchasing or accounting department within a legal entity.
Physical locations - e.g., a location such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or restaurant, or a particular location
within one of those facilities such as a loading dock, delivery point, a particular room, or other defined location.
Assigning Global Location Numbers (GLNs)
Methods for assigning identification numbers vary based on a number of factors including organizational strategy, current
business practices, and customer requirements. GLNs are typically assigned to every manufacturing location, warehouse,
or operator location.
If additional unique locations within an existing location that has been assigned a GLN require identification, there are two
options:

A unique GLN may be assigned to each of the unique locations

Locations that currently have a GLN may also use an optional GLN Extension component (using AI 254) to distinguish
unique locations (such as storage slots, door locations, bin storage, shelves, peg holes, racks, cabinets etc.).
o
The use of AI (254) is optional, but when used it must appear in conjunction with AI (414), identification of a
physical location.
o
The GS1 Company Prefix owner determines the extension component. Once determined, it is unchanged for
the life of the associated GLN
Page 27
The following graphic illustrates an example of GLN assignment for multiple locations
GLN Foodservice Example
Manufacturer Corp Headquarters
GS1 Company Prefix = 0061414
GLN: 0061414000017
Manufacturing Plant A
Distribution Center
GLN: 0061414000024
GLN: 0061414000062
Distributor Corp Headquarters
GS1 Company Prefix = 0054321
GLN: 0054321000017
Distribution Center A
GLN: 0054321000031
Distribution Center B
GLN: 0054321000048
Distribution Center C
GLN: 0054321000055
Operator Corp Headquarters
GS1 Company Prefix = 0098765
GLN: 0098765000017
Restaurant A
Restaurant B
Restaurant C
GLN: 0098765000031
GLN: 0098765000042
GLN: 0098765000063
Page 28
GS1-128 is the barcode used to encode the GLN data structure. The GS1-128 barcode utilizes Application Identifiers
(AIs) to string together multiple fields of information to help solve a variety of business challenges. As shown below, the AI
that is used to precede a GLN data structure is 414. The steps for creating this identification number are listed below:
Global Location Number (GLN) Data Structure
Check
Digit
GS1 US GS1 Company Prefix & Location Reference
Structure N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11 N12
13
Step 1
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
7
7
8
8 9
8
Step 2
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
7
7
8
8 9
8
Step 3
0
6
1
4
1
4
1
7
7
8
8 9
8

Step 1 (GS1 Company Prefix)
o

Step 2 (Location Reference)
o

The GS1 Company Prefix of 0614141 fills positions one through seven.
The Company Prefix and the company assigned location reference number for a GLN data structure will
always equal twelve digits. The GS1 Company Prefix in this example is seven digits, so the assigned
location reference number must equal five digits. In the example, 77889 will be used as the company
assigned item reference number and fills positions nine through thirteen.
Step 3 (Check Digit)
o
Position fourteen is reserved for a check digit for the entire GLN. Barcode printing software creates the
check digit from the preceding twelve digits. In this example, the calculated check digit 8 is placed in
position fourteen. A check digit calculator is available on the GS1 US website at
www.gs1us.org/checkdigit.
Assigning Serial Shipping Container Codes (SSCCs)
The SSCC is used to Link barcoded information on a logistics unit with the Advance Ship Notice (ASN). An ASN is a
notification of pending deliveries similar to a packing list and is known as the EDI 856 document in X12 EDI. The ASN is
provides the contents of a shipment plus additional information such as order information, product descriptions, physical
characteristics, type of packaging, markings, and carrier information. The SSCC is the “license plate” to identify specific
data about cartons, pallets, or even trailer loads of products so each pallet or carton does not have to be opened to
account for the contents... The SSCC moves products from one trading partner to another quickly and efficiently, greatly
reducing costs. The process is based on sufficient audits of prior shipments to ensure trading partner shipping accuracy.
Page 29
Typical foodservice business practice is to assign an SSCC to each pallet of mixed trade item cases, each identified with
a GTIN. Each SSCC is unique for that individual logistics unit based on the combination of your company’s GS1 Company
Prefix number and a serial reference number that you create to ensure a globally unique SSCC.
The GS1-128 barcode used to encode the SSCC data structure utilizes Application Identifiers (AIs) to tie together multiple
fields of data to help solve a variety of business challenges. As shown below, the AI that is used to precede the SSCC
data structure is 00. The steps for creating this identification number are listed below:
Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) Data Structure
Extension
Digit
Structure
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4

N4
1
1
1
1
N5
4
4
4
4
GS1 US GS1 Company Prefix & Item Reference
N6 N7 N8 N9 N10 N11 N12 N13
1
4
1
9
8
7
6
5
1
4
1
9
8
7
6
5
9
8
7
6
5
1
4
1
1
4
1
9
8
7
6
5
N14 N15 N16 N17
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
4
3
2
1
N18
7
7
7
7
This step creates the extension digit for the SSCC data structure. The extension digit in position one is
used to increase the available overall numbering capacity of the SSCC and has no defined logic. Any
number between one and nine may be used. The number 1 is used in this example.
The GS1 Company Prefix of 0614141 fills positions two through eight.
Step 3 (Serial Reference)
o

N3
6
6
6
6
Step 2 (GS1 Company Prefix)
o

N2
0
0
0
0
Step 1 (Extension Digit)
o

N1
1
1
1
1
Check
Digit
The Company Prefix and the company assigned serial reference number for a SSCC data structure will
always equal sixteen digits. The GS1 Company Prefix in this example is seven digits, so the assigned
location reference number must equal nine digits. In the example, 987654321 is used as the company
assigned item reference number and fills positions nine through seventeen. An individual SSCC number
must not be reused within one year of the shipment date from the SSCC assignor to a trading partner.
Step 4 (Check Digit)
o
Position fourteen is reserved for a check digit for the entire SSCC. Barcode printing software creates the
check digit from the preceding seventeen digits. In this example, the calculated check digit 7 is placed in
position eighteen. A check digit calculator is available on the GS1 US website at
www.gs1us.org/checkdigit.
Page 30
Appendix A: Foodservice Application Identifiers (Case & Pallet Identification)
GS1 Application Identifiers (AIs) are used with GS1-128 barcodes to share data between trading partners. This table
outlines some of the current initiatives in the food industry, and the AIs that are currently being used or planned for use at
the case and pallet level.
AI
Data
Content
PTI
Sysco
UFPC
Foodservice
Initiative
GS1 US
Minimum
Requirements
(00)
(01)
(10)
(11)
SSCC
X
X
X
X
GTIN
Batch/Lot
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X2
X2
X2
X2
Production
Date
(Planned)
(13)
Packaging Date
(15)
X
(17)
Best Before
Date
Expiration Date
X
X2
X2
(21)
(30)
Serial Number
Count of Items
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X1
X
X2
(Variable)
(3202)
Net Weight
(Variable Weight)
(3402)
Gross Weight
X
(Variable Weight)
(422)
Country of
Origin
X3
1. Required only if the Batch/Lot Number differs from the Packaging Date.
2. Selection of date(s) may vary, based on the product type or customer requirements.
3. The Country of Origin is required only for equipment tracking.
Page 31
Foodservice
Initiative
GS1 US
Recommendations