The Real Cost of a Failed Scan
Most shoppers have experienced the frustration of a product that refuses to scan at checkout. What seems like a small delay can quickly lead to customer dissatisfaction, abandoned purchases, and a negative brand impression. For businesses, failed scans are far more costly. They disrupt inventory records, slow down point-of-sale operations, and can result in lost revenue. In many cases, these problems stem from incorrect or unvalidated product identifiers—an issue that GTIN validation is designed to prevent.
📞 Contact our barcode experts at +91 729705118 or +91 8949793519 to get started.
What Is a GTIN?
A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a globally unique identifier assigned to each product SKU. Issued by authorized GS1 member organizations, it functions as a product’s digital fingerprint and is typically encoded within a barcode.
GTINs are essential for:
- Marketplace Compliance: E-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart rely on GTINs for accurate, error-free product listings.
- Inventory Accuracy: GTINs enable precise stock tracking, reducing the risk of overstocking or stockouts.
- Global Trade Compatibility: Since GTINs are universally recognized, they support smooth cross-border trade and supply-chain operations.
Why Choose GS1 India?
GS1 India is the sole authorized body responsible for issuing GTINs in India. Using GTINs from GS1 India offers several advantages:
- Authenticity and Consumer Trust: GS1 barcodes allow customers and partners to verify genuine products.
- International Acceptance: GS1 standards are globally recognized, making them suitable for both domestic and international markets.
- Regulatory and Marketplace Compliance: GS1-issued GTINs ensure alignment with industry standards and platform requirements.
📞 Contact our barcode experts at +91 729705118 or +91 8949793519 to get started.
To know more about this, please follow the below link.
Understanding GTIN Formats and Structure
GTINs are available in multiple formats, each designed for specific packaging and distribution needs:
- GTIN-8: For very small items with limited space
- GTIN-12 (UPC): Commonly used in North America
- GTIN-13 (EAN-13): Widely used across India, Europe, and many other regions
- GTIN-14: Used for cartons, pallets, and bulk packaging
Each GTIN consists of:
- Company Prefix: Assigned by GS1 (Indian prefixes typically begin with “890”)
- Item Reference: A unique number identifying the specific product
- Check Digit: A calculated digit that verifies the accuracy of the GTIN and prevents scanning errors
Why GTIN Validation Is Critical
The check digit is the backbone of GTIN accuracy. It ensures that any data entry or scanning errors are immediately detected. Proper GTIN validation helps businesses achieve:
- Accurate and compliant product listings
- Faster, error-free POS transactions
- Reliable inventory and supply-chain tracking
- Reduced operational disruptions and manual corrections
Best Practices for GTIN Validation
To maintain accuracy and compliance, businesses should adopt the following practices:
- Obtain GTINs exclusively from GS1 India.
- Regularly verify GTINs against GS1 databases.
- Use systems with built-in validation checks to minimize human error.
- Train staff on correct GTIN usage and barcode handling.
- Continuously monitor inventory and sales data linked to GTINs.
Conclusion
GTINs form the foundation of modern retail operations, enabling seamless checkouts, precise inventory management, and efficient supply chains. Validating GTINs through GS1 India is not just a best practice—it is a business necessity. By ensuring accurate product identification, businesses can enhance customer trust, meet marketplace requirements, and scale operations with confidence in an increasingly competitive retail environment.
📞 Contact our barcode experts at +91 729705118 or +91 8949793519 to get started.