If you run an online store or are just starting your eCommerce journey, you might have come across the term “GTIN” while listing products. Don’t worry if it sounds too technical or unfamiliar—you’re not alone. Many small and medium-sized sellers get confused by it. But understanding GTIN can help you grow your business and make your products more visible online.
The GTIN number is the unique identity of a product or a good that is meant to be circulated across the global supply chains. It is important for tracking, identifying, and validating a finished good in the global marketplace. So let’s dig deeper into the various aspects of what a GTIN number is.
Let’s break it down in a very simple way via this blog.
What is a GTIN number?
GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number. It’s a unique number given to a product so that it can be easily identified worldwide.
Think of it like an Aadhaar number or a PAN card, but for your products.
Each product has its own unique GTIN. If you sell different sizes or colours of the same item, each version should have its own GTIN.
Where Do You See GTINs?
You usually find GTINs in the form of barcodes on product packaging. These are scanned at checkout in retail stores. But in the world of eCommerce, GTINs are used by online marketplaces (like Amazon, Flipkart, Google Shopping, etc.) to:
- Identify products
- Match product listings
- Improve product search results
Types of GTINs You Should Know
There are a few types of GTINs, but you don’t have to remember all the numbers. Here’s a simple explanation:
- GTIN-12 (UPC – Universal Product Code):
- 12 digits
- Common in the USA and Canada
- Used for individual retail products
- Found on most consumer goods in physical stores and online
- GTIN-13 (EAN – European Article Number):
- 13 digits
- Used internationally (outside North America)
- Standard for retail products globally
- Found on barcodes of packaged goods
- GTIN-14 (ITF-14 or Case Code):
- 14 digits
- Used for bulk packaging, outer cartons, and pallets
- Ideal for inventory management and logistics
- Helps in scanning full cases or grouped products
- GTIN-8:
-
- 8 digits
- Used for very small retail items
- Helpful when there’s limited space for a barcode
- ISBN (International Standard Book Number):
-
- 13-digit GTIN used for books
- Ensures unique identification of published titles
- ISSN (International Standard Serial Number):
-
- 8-digit GTIN for periodicals like magazines or journals
- Useful for serial publications in the logistics and publishing industries
No matter the type, the purpose of the GTIN numbers is the same: to uniquely identify a product.
Why are the benefits of GTIN for Your eCommerce Business?
Now let’s talk about why you, as a seller, should care about GTINs:
1. Better Product Visibility
When your product has a GTIN, platforms like Amazon and Google can easily recognise it. This means your product can show up in more relevant searches.
More visibility = More chances of getting sales.
2. Builds Trust with Buyers
A product with a proper GTIN looks more authentic and credible. Buyers feel more confident about buying from you, especially if the same product is listed by multiple sellers.
3. Reduces Listing Errors
Many marketplaces use GTINs to automatically fill in product details like brand, colour, dimensions, etc. This saves you time and avoids mistakes in your listings.
4. Required by Most Marketplaces
Platforms like Amazon, Google Shopping, Flipkart, and others often require GTINs for listing branded or standard products. Without one, your listing may be rejected or might not perform well.
5. Helps in Inventory and Returns Management
Using GTINs makes it easier to track products, manage stock, and handle returns efficiently. It keeps your backend clean and organised.
Do You Need a GTIN for All Products?
Not necessarily. If you sell handmade, custom, or unique products, GTIN may not be required.
But if you sell branded, resold, or manufactured goods, then having a GTIN is almost always necessary.
Also, some platforms offer a GTIN exemption process, especially for small sellers. But this only works in specific cases.
How to Get a GTIN Number for Your Products?
Here are a few ways you can get a GTIN:
1. From Your Supplier or Manufacturer
If you’re reselling a branded product, ask your supplier for the GTIN. Most brands already have GTINs assigned.
2. Buy from GS1
GS1 is the official global organisation that issues GTINs. You can visit their local website (like gs1india.org) to register and purchase GTINs for your products.
3. Use Marketplace-Approved GTIN Providers
Some marketplaces allow you to buy GTINs from approved resellers. Be cautious and ensure they are GS1-certified.
What Happens If You Don’t Use a GTIN?
- Your product might not show up in search results.
- Your ad campaigns may be disapproved.
- Your listings may be suppressed or removed.
- You may lose credibility compared to sellers using proper GTINs.
In short, you lose out on potential customers and sales.
GTIN Exemption: What is That?
Some sellers who sell unique or handmade items can apply for a GTIN exemption. For example, if you are the manufacturer of the product and it doesn’t have a barcode, some platforms allow you to list it without a GTIN.
Each platform has its own rules, so check their guidelines before applying.
Final Thoughts
GTIN might sound like a complicated term, but it’s just a way to give your product an identity online.
If you want your business to grow, attract more buyers, and stay compliant with marketplace rules, using GTINs is a smart move. It makes your listings look professional, trustworthy, and visible.
So, whether you’re a small seller or planning to scale up, now is the right time to understand and start using GTINs for GTIN products.
But what’s the next step that we are missing here? Once you get your GTIN number, the process that will follow is the preparation for shipping. Shipping your products to customers across the globe is one hell of a task, for which you’re going to need experts.
Be it shipping, logistics, or warehouse fulfilment needs, NimbusPost brings you value, efficiency, and affordability in all the services. We offer tech-enabled solutions for all-scale eCommerce enterprises. So what are you waiting for? Head to the website and join the thriving community of eCommerce experts today!
