Allocating barcode numbers

Exporting to USA and Canada

Historically, for retail items, the GS1 System has enabled only one way compatibility with the GS1 US identification number and barcoding system used in the United States of America (USA) and Canada. This means that not all retail items numbered under the GS1 System with GTIN-13 and GTIN-8 identification numbers are able to be scanned by all retailers in the USA and Canada. Companies exporting to the USA and Canada have had to obtain a separate membership with a U.P.C. prefix to allocate GTIN-12 identification number.

However, retailers in the USA and Canada are gradually upgrading their systems. In the meantime, companies exporting to the USA are advised to ask their distributors if GS1 numbers and barcodes are compatible with their retail customers' systems.

Currently, if you do need to number and barcode your retail items under the GS1 US System, you need to become a member of GS1 Australia and then obtain GS1 US membership.

View more information on allocating GTIN-12 identification number for retail trade items.

Downloads

For more information download the below fact sheet:

Allocating a non-retail GTIN (barcode)
download [format: pdf - date: September 2005 - size: 50kb]

To apply for a GS1 US membership contact our Administration Department on 1300 366 033.