GTIN (Global Trade Identification Numbers) & UPC Barcodes

There is a lot of confusion surrounding GTIN (Global Trade Identification Numbers). GTIN is not a new bar code. There is no such thing as a 14 digit GTIN bar code. The GTIN 2005 Sunrise did not necessitate new bar codes.

GTIN defines a way to store data represented in 14 digit numeric strings. If you and I are trading partners and our computers talk to each other, things will go smoother if you always send me 14 digit strings. I'll anticipate them, recognize them when you send them, and act on them accordingly.

GTIN numbers are usually represented by bar codes: UPC, EAN, Code 128, or Interleaved 2 of 5. Scan a bar code and use it to recreate a 14 digit GTIN. It's not that there's a GTIN barcode out there. Existing bar code structures are being used to encode GTINs.

January 1 2005 was the GTIN Sunrise 2005 date. Afterwards, all trading partners are expected to support GTINs. Database and spreadsheet developers as well as those in the shipping and distribution industries were most effected. For most of us the transition was a non-event.

To learn more about GTIN, bar codes, and other auto ID nerdy stuff, please read our white paper. It's actually a fun read and not as boring as it sounds. GS1 US also has a white paper you should read.

Relax. All of Azalea Software's products are GTIN compliant.

Questions? salesinfo at azalea dot com or 1.206.336.9575