Identification Keys & Barcode Standards

Barcodetz Ltd, we help businesses uniquely identify products, assets, shipments, locations, and documents using globally recognized barcode identification standards. These identification keys allow companies to organize their operations, track items throughout the supply chain, and exchange reliable data with partners and customers.

Unique identification is the foundation of modern commerce. With properly structured barcode identifiers, businesses can accurately manage inventory, automate logistics, improve traceability, and reduce costly errors.

Barcode identification systems create a common language that enables different organizations and systems to understand and share information seamlessly.

These identification standards allow businesses to connect physical items with digital information such as product details, shipment records, and operational data, improving transparency across the entire supply chain.

Common Barcode Identification Keys

Product Identification (GTIN)

The Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) is used to uniquely identify products and services that are sold, ordered, or invoiced in the marketplace. Every variation of a product — such as size, flavor, or packaging — receives its own unique identifier to ensure accurate recognition across systems.

Location Identification (GLN)

The Global Location Number (GLN) identifies companies, warehouses, factories, stores, and other business locations. This enables organizations to clearly define where transactions, deliveries, and operations take place.

Logistics Unit Identification (SSCC)

The Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) is used to track shipping units such as pallets, cartons, containers, or parcels as they move through distribution networks.

Asset Identification (GIAI & GRAI)

Asset identifiers help organizations manage valuable equipment and reusable containers.

  • Global Individual Asset Identifier (GIAI) tracks fixed assets such as computers, machinery, or medical equipment.

  • Global Returnable Asset Identifier (GRAI) tracks reusable containers such as crates, pallets, and transport racks.

Shipment & Consignment Identification (GSIN & GINC)

Logistics operations rely on shipment identifiers to monitor goods as they move across supply chains.

  • Global Shipment Identification Number (GSIN) identifies groups of logistics units shipped together.

  • Global Identification Number for Consignment (GINC) identifies consignments transported together during distribution.

  • Document Identification (GDTI)

    The Global Document Type Identifier (GDTI) helps organizations manage official documents such as shipping forms, certificates, and licenses.

    Service Relationship Identification (GSRN)

    The Global Service Relation Number (GSRN) identifies relationships between service providers and recipients, such as loyalty program members, subscribers, or registered users.

    Coupon & Promotion Identification (GCN)

    The Global Coupon Number (GCN) allows businesses to track promotional coupons and digital offers accurately.

  • Component & Model Identification (CPID & GMN)

    Manufacturers use specialized identifiers to manage components and product models.

    • Component / Part Identifier (CPID) tracks spare parts and manufacturing components.

    • Global Model Number (GMN) identifies product models, particularly in regulated industries such as healthcare.

    These identification systems help businesses manage the many elements that make up a modern supply chain, including products, shipments, assets, locations, and documentation.

Why Identification Standards Matter

Implementing standardized identification systems provides significant benefits for organizations:

  • Accurate product identification

  • Improved inventory management

  • Faster and more reliable logistics operations

  • Enhanced supply chain transparency

  • Better traceability and compliance

  • Reduced operational errors

Globally standardized identifiers ensure that information can be shared easily between different organizations, improving collaboration across supply chains.

How Barcodetz Supports Your Business

Barcodetz provides expert support in implementing barcode identification systems for organizations of all sizes. Our services include:

  • Barcode and product identification setup

  • Label and barcode generation

  • Barcode printer and scanner integration

  • Inventory and asset tracking systems

  • Supply chain automation solutions

  • Implementation consulting and training

With offices in the United Kingdom, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, Barcodetz helps businesses adopt international barcode standards and modernize their operations for efficiency, traceability, and growth.