What is a GTIN?

A GTIN is a Global Trade Identification number and is used worldwide for marking products usually distributed and sold in the retail chain. The GTIN number is used to generate a barcode which is scanned at points of sale (till points). A barcode cannot be generated without a GTIN number.

(Products that do NOT use GTINs are books and serial publications, which use ISBN and ISSN respectively.)

How do I obtain a GTIN?

You need to be registered with the national consumer council in your particular country. In South Africa this would be GS1 South Africa. When registering you can obtain just one number or a bank of numbers. These numbers will include a Company Prefix which is uniquely assigned to your company. GTIN documentation is available on their website.

Who creates the BARCODE from the GTIN?

We can create the barcodes for you. We offer the following barcode symbologies: EAN-13, GS1-128, ISBN-10, ISBN-13 and ISSN-13 (this is converted into an EAN-13 barcode with optional extension of 2 to 5 digits).

How do I know which BARCODE format to choose?

Selecting the right barcode is critical to the success of your barcode implementation plan, but here are some tips:

• EAN: Used for most retail products scanned at point-of-sale (till points) worldwide. These barcodes may have an optional extension of 2 to 5 digits.
• ISBN: Used on the back of books for retail and inventory use. It may have an optional price extension.
• ISSN: Converted into an EAN-13 and used on serial publications, such as magazines and newspapers, for retail and inventory use.
• GS1-128: Used on products with variable information like serial numbers, expiry dates, dimensions and weight, product container information, inventory management, and internal codes.

If you are unsure about which barcode is appropriate for your product, contact GS1 South Africa on 0861 242 000 or visit their website for more information.

What file formats are my barcodes supplied in?

Your barcodes can be supplied in any one of four convenient file formats - simply choose the format most suited to the software being used to make up and print your labels.

EPS: This is a self-contained, high quality file that can also be placed within another PostScript document.

TIFF: This file format is useful if you want to apply colour to your barcode and is widely used by printing companies.

Adobe Illustrator: This is an open vector graphic file offering the best quality and is widely used by graphic designers - this file format can also be exported into most other formats required for printing. Specialised graphic software is required to open and read it.

JPG: An uncompressed, high-resolution setting is used for optimum quality - this format is versatile in that it can be used across a number of different platforms and computers - however, there is the risk of a gradual decrease in quality if the barcode is repeatedly opened and resaved at less than the maximum quality settings.

How do I order a BARCODE?

Simply download and complete the application form and send it back to us with proof of payment. We will create your barcode and email it back to you within 1-2 working days.

Barcode Application Form

Word doc  |  PDF