How to Use Your Barcodes

What do you do after getting your barcodes? Depending on what you need to identify, you will use either a GTIN or a Global Location Number (GLN). GTINs uniquely identify products at all item and package levels, and a GLN is used to identify the locations of parties involved in business transactions.

There are many formats of barcodes. The barcode formats you need for products scanned at point of sale (or checkout) are different from the ones you need for products scanned in a distribution center or a warehouse. If you’re selling online, you’ll need a GTIN.

If you’re using GS1 US Data Hub to create your GTINs, your next step is to create the barcode image and print it correctly on your items. To help ensure that your barcode will scan correctly and efficiently, it’s important to follow the guidelines on creating the barcode, selecting colors, placement on packaging, and selecting the barcode size.

Share your product and location information electronically with your trading partners. Electronic data sharing has many benefits, including reducing communication errors, increasing the speed of trade transactions, and supporting real-time product information updates.