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Identification

Find out how to identify different items using GS1 Numbers

To identify something, you need to start with a unique number. GS1 calls these numbers keys. The GS1 key you need depends on what you want to identify, whether it’s a CD, a roll cage or a person.

GS1 identification numbers/keys can be used on their own to identify your product. This is common when selling online. But GS1 keys are often put into bar codes or RFID tags, or used in EDI messages or for GDSN.
 
Which GS1 identification number/key you need to use can be found in the table below:

What you need to identify: Examples: The identification number you need is: 
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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 Training

 Case Studies

GS1 Case Study article
Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust improves patient safety by implementing a positive patient identification system across all wards meeting current NHS guidelines and GS1 standards.