Identification
Identify different items using GS1 Numbers
Unique number keys are used to identify something. GS1 identification numbers/keys can be used on their own to identify your product and often put into bar codesor RFID tags, or used in EDI messages or for GDSN.
The GS1 key you need depends on the item you want to identify as per the table below.
GS1 identification number/key:
| What you need to identify: |
Examples: |
Identification number: |
| Products |
CDs to sell online or a cake to sell in the shops |
GTIN (Global trade Item Number) |
| Parties and locations |
Companies, warehouses, factories, stores |
GLN (Global Location Number) |
| Logistics units |
Pallets, containers, roll cages |
SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) |
| Returnable equipment used for transporting goods |
Pallet bases, crates, totes |
GRAI (Global Returnable Asset Identifier) |
| Assets such as important equipment |
Medical equipment, manufacturing equipment, components |
GIAI (Global Individual Asset Identifier) |
| People |
Members of a customer loyalty scheme, patients, employees |
GSRN (Global Service Relation Number) |
| Documents |
Papers including tax demands, shipment forms, insurance policies, driving licences |
GDTI (Global Document Type Identifier) |
| Freight Consignment |
Logistics units that comprise a single consignment |
GINC (Global Identification Number for Consignment) |
| A grouping of logistics units that travel under one despatch advice of bill of lading |
Customs authorities identify shipments going in and out of the country |
GSIN (Global Shipment Identification Number) |
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