GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
Definition
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a unique numeric identifier, internationally recognized, used to identify trade items, services, or products at any point in the supply chain. Managed by the global organization GS1, GTIN is the "digital name" of a product, ensuring that an item manufactured in Portugal is identified exactly the same way in a warehouse in Germany or at a retailer in China.
Structure and Types of GTIN
There are different variations of GTIN, depending on the type of product and packaging level:
GTIN-13
The most common in Portugal and Europe, used for products intended for point of sale (retail). It is the number that appears below the EAN-13 barcode.
GTIN-14 (ITF-14)
Generally used for logistics units, such as cardboard boxes containing multiple individual items. It allows the warehouse to receive a box and the WMS instantly knows how many products are inside.
GTIN-8
Used for very small products where labeling space is limited.
GTIN-12 (UPC)
Predominant in the North American market.
Importance of GTIN for a WMS System
For warehouse management software, GTIN is the foundation of data integrity. Without it, the probability of errors in order preparation increases dramatically.
Goods Reception
By reading the barcode containing the GTIN, the WMS identifies the product in the system without the need for manual search by name or description, which speeds up the stock entry process.
Picking Accuracy
During order preparation, the system requires GTIN scanning. If the operator tries to pick a similar product but with a different GTIN, the WMS issues an immediate error alert.
Omnichannel Visibility
In e-commerce, GTIN is essential for synchronizing stock between the online store and the physical warehouse, and is also a mandatory requirement for listing products on platforms like Google Shopping or Amazon.
Difference between GTIN and SKU
There is often confusion between these two terms. While SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is an internal code created by each company for its own management, GTIN is a universal code. Two companies may have different SKUs for the same yogurt, but the GTIN will always be the same worldwide.