In today's interconnected world, precise location identification within facilities is crucial. The GS1 GLN Extension Component enhances the Global Location Number (GLN) by adding an alphanumeric code to pinpoint specific sub-locations, such as warehouse zones, individual shelves or service points. This improvement boosts the accuracy and efficiency of stock management, asset tracking and service delivery, streamlining operational workflows.
The GS1 GLN Extension Component is a numeric code that can be added to a Global Location Number (GLN) to identify a sub-location within a facility or site.
A sub-location is a specific space located on or within another physical location.
The GLN Extension Component offers numerous benefits for GS1 users, including:
- Greater visibility and control over sub-locations, optimising space utilisation and resource allocation.
- Streamlining processes like stock taking, asset tracking, service delivery and quality assurance.
- Enhancing data quality and interoperability of location information, improving traceability and security.
How to use the GS1 GLN Extension Component for sub-locations
The GS1 GLN Extension Component provides a flexible framework for various uses:
- It can be assigned by the owner or manager of the facility or site, in compliance with GS1 General Specifications and the GS1 GLN Allocation Rules.
- It is capable of being up to 20 digits long and can consist of any combination of numbers, letters and special characters.
- Encoding options include a GS1 DataMatrix or the GS1-128 barcode, or an RFID tag, which can then be attached to the sub-location.
- Devices or systems can scan and interpret the GS1 Application identifier (254) which identifies the GLN Extension Component. When used alongside the GLN, it uniquely identifies the sub-location and links it to pertinent information, such as the name, address, function and contact details of the facility or site.
Example of a GLN with an Extension Component in a GS1 DataMatrix.
In this case, (414) is the Application Identifier for the physical location GLN 5055218861238, whilst (254) identifies the GLN Extension Component for sub-location Bed31.
When internal to an organisation, sub-locations may be identified by GLN or by GLN with a GLN extension component. If locations or sub-locations need to be shared outside an organisation, then only GLNs can be used (unless all parties agree and can utilise the GLN Extension Component).