Allocating barcode numbers (GTINs)
Barcode numbers (GTINs) are unique identifiers for items (single units, packs, pallets or global "addresses") which ensure that any coded item can be tracked, traced and identified from its source point to it final destination - be it on a supermarket shelf or in a factory being assembled into further finished product.
When allocating identifier numbers you need to determine the type of trade item you wish to number.
The two main types of identifier numbers are those for retail trade items and those for non retail trade items.
A separate unique barcode number (Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)
) must be allocated to every different variant of an item (e.g. colour, size, model, pack size, style).
It is strongly recommended that someone within your company be assigned to manage the allocation of barcode numbers (GTINs) and keep accurate and updated records of the numbers created to avoid duplication.
For guidelines on items requiring separate numbers and when to change a barcode number (GTIN), refer to the section on when to change a barcode (GTIN).
Reusing numbers
If a product is deleted from a range, the barcode number (GTIN) may be reassigned to another item if the product is no longer in the marketplace and a period of no less than four years has lapsed since the product was deleted.
Who is responsible for numbering a barcode (GTIN)?
Generally, the company (including a non profit organisation) who owns the brand name of the product, is responsible for the allocation of the barcode number (GTIN), regardless of where and by whom a product has been manufactured.
Hence, responsibility for numbering belongs to the manufacturer or supplier who sells it under their own brand name.
If an importer or wholesaler has the product manufactured elsewhere and sells it under their brand name, the importer or wholesaler has responsibility.
If a retailer has a product manufactured in any country and sells it under the retailer's brand name, responsibility belongs to the retailer.
