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      What is a GTIN-14 and how to use these?

      GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) is a 14-digit barcode standard used globally to uniquely identify trade items. It is primarily used for products that are grouped together in a larger container, such as cases, trays or pallets.

      The GTIN-14 provides a standardized way to track and manage inventory, streamline supply chain processes, and ensure accuracy in product information across various systems. This standard is essential for companies aiming for efficient product identification and data synchronization within international trade and retail environments.

      How to Assign GTIN-14s to a GTIN-8 or GTIN-13 Consumer Unit

      Assigning a GTIN-14 to a consumer unit with an existing GTIN-8 or GTIN-13 involves expanding the existing GTIN to fit the 14-digit format used for cases or pallets. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

      Step-by-Step Guide

      1. Identify the Consumer Unit GTIN: Start with the GTIN-8 or GTIN-13 assigned to the individual product.

        • Example GTIN-8: 82345679
        • Example GTIN-13 (Netherlands): 8712345678906

      2. Add Leading Zeros: For GTIN-8, add five leading zeros to make it a 13-digit number. GTIN-13 does not require additional zeros as it will fit into the GTIN-14 format with the indicator digit.

        • GTIN-8 becomes: 0000082345679
        • GTIN-13 remains: 8712345678906

      3. Assign the Indicator Digit: This digit, ranging from 1 to 8 for fixed weight items, and 9 for variable weight items, indicates the packaging level.

        • Example for a case of six items: The indicator digit might be 1.

      4. Calculate the Check Digit: The last digit of the GTIN-14 is a check digit calculated using the GS1 algorithm. This ensures the GTIN is valid and helps prevent errors.

      5. Determine the Final GTIN-14: Combine all parts to form the complete GTIN-14.

        • Example final GTIN-14 for GTIN-8: 1000008234567X (X being the check digit)
        • Example final GTIN-14 for GTIN-13: 1871234567890Y (Y being the check digit)

      6. Combine the Indicator Digit and Expanded GTIN: Place the indicator digit in front of the expanded GTIN-8 or GTIN-13 to create the GTIN-14.

        • Example for GTIN-8: 10000082345676
        • Example for GTIN-13: 18712345678903

      Understanding the First Digit in GTIN-14

      The first digit in the GTIN-14 is crucial as it denotes different aspects of packaging and product weight:

      Indicator Digits 1 to 8

      • 1 to 8: These digits are used for fixed-content items and different levels of packaging. For instance:
        • 1 might represent a case of 6 units.
        • 2 might represent a case of 12 units, and so on.
        • These numbers help companies internally differentiate between various packaging configurations.

      Indicator Digit 9

      • 9: This digit is specifically reserved for variable weight products. These are items sold in bulk or where the exact weight/quantity is not predetermined (e.g., fresh produce, meat, or cheese).
        • Example: A crate with potatoes that can vary in weight each time it is sold.