GTIN-14 Data Structure
Logistic units such as shelf displays and master cartons require proper identification using a GTIN-14 identifier. Since these packaging levels are typically not scanned at retail point-of-sale systems, they utilize the ITF-14 barcode format rather than the UPC barcode symbol used for individual retail items.
Packaging Indicator
This denotes the level of packaging for a particular carton. This one-digit prefix can range from 0 to 8.
GS1 Company Prefix
Companies must have UPC (GTINs) with a GS1 Company Prefix that uniquely identifies their company. Depending on the number of items a company needs to identify, a GS1 Company Prefix may be 7 to 10 digits in length.
Item Reference
References the same product number used for the item level GTIN (GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13) when a carton is made up of the same item. For cartons that contain an assortment of items a new product number is assigned.
Check Digit
The last digit of GTIN-14 is a calculated check digit. Using a MOD10 check digit algorithm, the calculated check digit prevents substitution errors.
Creating a GTIN-14 for a carton containing the same items
When all of a cartons items have the same UPC (GTIN-12), the corresponding GTIN-14 for the logistical level is derived from the product’s GTIN.
A starting Packaging Indicator (1 – 8 )will denote a particular level (inner carton, outer carton, pallet, etc). The full GS1 Company Prefix* and Item Reference (Product) Number follow the Packaging Indicator. The 14th digit will be a newly calculated Check Digit.
If the items within a carton have different product numbers (i.e. mixed pack), the Packaging Indicator should be a “0” and a brand new unique Product Number must be used to represent this unique assortment.
** A GS1 Company Prefix for North American companies includes a padded zero. Consequently, products identified with a UPC (GTIN-12) pad their UPC Company Prefix with a leading zero.
ITF-14 Barcode Symbol
The ITF-14 barcode serves as the primary data carrier for the GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) structure throughout retail supply chains. This standardized 14-digit barcode utilizes the “Interleaved 2 of 5” symbology (commonly abbreviated as I2of5 or ITF), which efficiently encodes numerical data in a format optimized for logistics environments.
ITF-14 barcodes incorporate protective bearer bars—distinctive boundary lines that safeguard the barcode image from scanning errors and physical damage. These bearer bars serve multiple critical functions:
- They prevent partial reads during scanning operations
- They compensate for potential ink spread during the printing process
- They enhance scanning reliability across various surfaces
Implementation Requirements
The application method determines the bearer bar configuration:
- Label Application: For ITF-14 barcodes printed on adhesive labels, only horizontal bearer bars along the top and bottom edges are required. The smoother label surface provides adequate protection for the vertical components.
- Direct Carton Printing: When printing an ITF-14 directly on corrugated cardboard, a complete rectangle of bearer bars must surround the entire barcode. This comprehensive border compensates for the rougher surface texture and potential print inconsistencies.
Each implementation scenario has specific minimum sizing requirements to ensure proper scanning across the supply chain, with dimensions calibrated to accommodate both the scanning equipment and printing surface characteristics. The following illustration displays example images and the minimum sizing for each scenario.
Size: The two components which determine the width of an ITF-14 bar code symbol are the x-dimension and the wide-to-narrow ratio. As illustrated in the above picture, the minimum x-dimension varies depending on how the ITF-14 is printed. The other sizing component of an ITF-14, the wide-to-narrow ratio, is a measure of the wide elements to the narrow elements. The wide-to-narrow ratio is held constant and should always be between 2.25:1 to 3:1.
While ITF-14 remains the most widely implemented format for GTIN-14 data, this information can alternatively be encoded in other GS1-compliant data carriers, such as the versatile GS1-128 barcode system, which offers additional data encoding capabilities.
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Ensure Barcode Compliance with Expert Support
Managing UPC barcodes and logistic GTIN-14 codes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. GS1 Barcode Support subscription is the comprehensive solution for GTIN management, barcode creation, and product data validation. An assigned consultant will be there to assist assigning GTINs and converting them to corresponding GTIN-14 case barcodes. With access to the powerful GTIN.cloud portal, you can confidently manage your barcodes, meet compliance requirements, and prepare for the future of barcode technology.
Expert Guidance From Assigned GS1 Barcode Consultant
Receive dedicated, personalized support from industry professionals with years of experience in barcode management and compliance. For members requiring logistic carton barcode identification, our personal consultants will help convert (GTIN-12) into corresponding GTIN-14(ITF-14 barcodes).
Access to GTIN.cloud
GTIN.cloud is the industry’s leading tool for managing GTIN-12 & GTIN-14 assignments, validating UPC ownership, and preparing for GS1 Digital Link implementation. Subscriptions include multiple users per company at no additional cost.
Retailer and Platform Trust
Certified .eps barcodes and data validation are trusted by major retailers, including Amazon, ensuring compliance and credibility.
Accuracy and Compliance
All entered UPC product information is validated, prior to publishing, by a personal consultant to ensure accuracy and prevent bad data entering trading partners’ supply chains.
Future-Ready Technology
Stay ahead of industry changes with GS1 Digital Link readiness for 2027. The GTIN.cloud portal ensures your barcodes will meet tomorrow’s standards, integrating seamlessly into the digital ecosystem.
GS1 Barcode Support
- Assigned personal certified GS1 Consultant for 1 year
- Assign UPC/GTINS and create barcodes on GTIN.cloud®
- GTIN assignments and product data validation
- Be compliant for Digital Link Sunrise 2027 date
GS1 UK Overview Video
Every country has a local GS1 office and some provide more complimentary guidance than others. The video to the right provides an overview for the conversion of GTINs to GTIN-14.
Note: The GTINs assigned by GS1 UK are GTIN-13 so their GS1 Company Prefix does not require a zero padding when converting to the GTIN-14 format.
GTIN FAQ’s
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