What is a GTIN?
A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is the EAN-13 or UPC barcode number that identifies each retail product. It is a 12 or 13 digit globally unique product ID used worldwide in retail systems.
EAN-13 or UPC barcode images encode that number on retail packaging and are scanned at the point of sale. The GTIN identifies the product and displays relevant info in the retailer's system.
Each product variant (such as size, color, or flavor) requires its own GTIN to ensure proper tracking, inventory management, and sales reporting.
How do I get a GTIN?
There are several ways to get a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number);
- Choose a “PLANS + GTINS” membership when signing up with IBN Link — we can provide GTINs bundled with your 2D Barcode plan. Please note: this includes the GTIN barcode numbers only (in EAN-13 format). No barcode images are provided.
- Buy GTINs from the International Barcodes Network (IBN), a global network of barcode suppliers. Visit the main IBN website or find your local IBN office here. You will receive barcode numbers and barcode images.
- Alternatively, purchase GTINs from your national GS1 office or another reputable barcode supplier.
IBN Link is part of the International Barcodes Network (IBN), a global group of barcode suppliers headquartered in New Zealand. IBN launched IBN Link to help businesses adapt to the future of retail with 2D Barcodes, which are expected to be scanned at all retail points of sale by 2027.
Why do you need a GTIN to create a 2D barcode?
Your GTIN generates a unique web address (Digital Link URI) for your product. This Digital Link is what gets encoded into the 2D Barcode (QR Code), making each product’s barcode unique and digitally connected.
In the example below, the product’s GTIN (UPC) 609722880008 is embedded into the URI. For more info, visit our FAQ page.
