What is GTIN?
In the era of product transparency and regulatory transformation, the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) has evolved from a mere barcode into a foundational pillar of digital traceability. Whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, or sustainability leader, understanding GTIN is not just helpful—it’s essential. As Digital Product Passports (DPPs) become mandatory across the EU, the GTIN steps into a new role: the unique digital identifier that unlocks trustworthy product information across borders, systems, and supply chains.
In this glossary entry, we explore what GTIN is, how it functions, and—most importantly—why it's indispensable in the age of Digital Product Passports.
What is GTIN?
GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, is a unique numerical identifier used globally to distinguish products and trade items. It’s administered by GS1, a non-profit organization that standardizes the identification of goods and services worldwide.
GTINs come in several formats depending on the type and origin of the product, including:
- GTIN-13 (commonly seen in EAN barcodes)
- GTIN-12 (used in UPC barcodes)
- GTIN-14 (for grouped trade items)
- GTIN-8 (for small or space-constrained items)
No matter the format, the principle is the same: a GTIN provides a globally unique identity for a product, enabling accurate and interoperable identification across any market.
Why GTIN is critical for Digital Product Passports
In the context of Digital Product Passports, the GTIN is more than a barcode—it's the digital key that connects a physical product to its verified, structured digital identity.
Here’s why it matters:
- Uniqueness: A GTIN ensures that each product version or configuration can be distinctly identified, avoiding mix-ups and counterfeits.
- Interoperability: GTINs are already recognized by ERP systems, retailers, and customs globally. This makes them a reliable bridge to integrate DPPs across value chains.
- Scalability: Businesses don’t need to reinvent the wheel. If a product already has a GTIN, it can be used as the primary identifier within the Digital Product Passport ecosystem.
In short, the GTIN becomes the anchor that allows a DPP to pull in trusted data: from origin and composition to environmental impact and recycling instructions.
How GTIN fits into the DPP structure
Within a Digital Product Passport, the GTIN typically serves as:
- The primary identifier used to query or retrieve DPP data
- The link between product-level data and databases, including regulatory repositories and manufacturer systems
- The reference embedded in QR codes or RFID tags, allowing scanning and immediate access to verified digital content
For example, a sneaker with GTIN 1234567890123 can have a QR code linked directly to its DPP profile. That profile may include:
- Materials used and their origin
- CO₂ footprint and certifications
- Repairability score
- Recycling instructions
- Warranty and batch information
All this becomes possible and reliable because of the GTIN.
Who assigns GTINs and how to obtain one
GTINs are issued by local GS1 organizations. To get one:
- Register with GS1 in your country or region.
- Receive a GS1 Company Prefix, which forms the base of all your GTINs.
- Generate GTINs for your products using this prefix, often through online tools provided by GS1.
- Embed GTINs in your systems (ERP, product packaging, product pages, etc.)
For startups or small manufacturers embracing DPPs, this process may seem bureaucratic, but it's worth it. GTINs are globally accepted, digitally verifiable, and future-proof—especially in the context of upcoming EU regulations.
GTIN vs serial numbers, SKUs, and UUIDs
It’s easy to confuse GTINs with other identifiers. But GTINs serve a distinct purpose:
- GTIN: identifies the type of product (e.g., a model of a T-shirt)
- Serial Number: identifies individual units (e.g., a specific T-shirt)
- SKU: internal reference used by a company, not globally standardized
- UUID: a random, software-generated identifier, often used in databases or blockchain
For DPPs, GTIN is the most standardized and recognized product-level ID—suitable for public-facing transparency and regulatory compliance.
How DPPBuilder supports GTIN integration
At DPPBuilder, we’ve designed our platform to seamlessly incorporate GTINs as part of your Digital Product Passport generation flow. Whether you’re uploading your product catalog or generating passports at scale, you can:
- Import existing GTINs
- Auto-map GTINs to product entries
- Link GTINs to QR codes and DPP public profiles
- Validate GTIN structures to avoid errors
This ensures that your Digital Product Passports remain compliant, interoperability, and future-ready.
Final thoughts
In a world increasingly demanding transparency, traceability, and trust, GTIN is no longer just about logistics—it’s about digital accountability. It is the quiet enabler of a more sustainable, circular economy, powering the very structure of Digital Product Passports.
By aligning your product data with GTIN standards, you're not just complying with regulations—you’re building credibility, streamlining operations, and preparing for the future of product intelligence.
And at DPPBuilder, we’re here to make that future easy, intuitive, and secure.