GTIN or the Global Trade Item Number is a unique identification number provided by GS1 India to companies that get registered for GS1 barcodes. GTIN is synonymously used with EAN/UPC (European Article Number/Universal Product Code) and carries the same function as them.
In this blog, we will learn the importance of GTIN, its applications across various industries, and how it provides unique product identification to each element across a supply chain.
Introduction
GTIN/EAN/UPC barcodes are the only barcodes that are structured, standardised, and provide the required interoperability for global trade. They are also recommended by major online marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, BlinkIt, and so on to easily list products on their platforms.
These barcodes or barcodes on myntra product serve as a gateway to detailed, accurate, and authentic product information. At point-of-sales or point-of-care, when scanned using a scanner, these barcodes facilitate the exchange of reliable and up-to-date information on products.
Each GTIN is a standardised numeric code that distinguishes a specific product variant, down to size, colour, or packaging, enabling accurate cataloguing, inventory management, and search functionality.
Barcodes, which visually encode GTINs, streamline scanning and data retrieval, ensuring seamless logistics and product tracking. On Myntra, GTINs help prevent duplication, support accurate listings, and improve the discoverability of products, benefiting both sellers and consumers by reducing errors and enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Types of Barcodes
As discussed above, there are different types of barcodes provided by GS1, A global standards organisation that manages and develops supply chain standards.
Below are the types of barcodes used globally –
- GTIN-13/EAN-13 – The most common barcode type – GTIN-13 is used to identify retail items. It is composed of 13 digits. Its structure comprises the country code, company code, product code, and check digit.
- GTIN-8/EAN-8/UPC-E – It is assigned to small retail items like battery cells, cosmetics, chocolates, etc. GTIN-8 is assigned on a case-by-case basis, and its allocation is subject to approval from the GS1 board. GTIN-8/GS1-8 barcode can only be used on products with space constraints and products that cannot carry the regular barcode type.
- UPC-A – This barcode type is used primarily in North America. It consists of 12 digits only and is used to uniquely identify retail items in these countries.
How GTIN Works With Barcodes
GTINs are generated using DataKart – India’s National Product Data Repository. Brand owners need to first get registered with GS1 India for barcodes; thereafter, they can start generating their product GTINs. Through DataKart, business owners can automatically create barcodes and encode GTINs in their selected barcode type, either 1D or 2D.
Afterwards, they can download the barcode from DataKart’s portal and send it for bulk printing. These barcodes can then be applied to products to be sold in the market.
When scanned, the system reads the GTIN from the barcode and retrieves the corresponding product data, such as name, price, brand, and stock, from a database, enabling efficient product identification and management.
Barcode on Myntra Product
The barcode printed on Myntra product tags and packaging encodes the product’s GTIN, serving as a unique digital identifier. When scanned, this barcode can reveal key details like brand, size, colour, and style, ensuring accurate product handling. Myntra uses these GTIN-based barcodes to streamline logistics—from warehouse sorting to delivery tracking—and maintain real-time inventory across its supply chain.
For example, scanning a barcode during dispatch confirms the exact variant (e.g., Nike sneakers, size 9, red), reducing errors and ensuring customers receive the right item. This system also aids in quick returns, re-stocking, and seller performance tracking.
Conclusion
GTINs and barcodes are essential tools in online retail, ensuring each product is uniquely identified, accurately listed, and efficiently tracked. On platforms like Myntra, they power everything from inventory management to order fulfilment. For sellers, understanding and using GTIN-based barcodes helps prevent listing errors and improves visibility. For buyers, it guarantees accurate product information and smooth transactions. Recognising the purpose behind the barcode on a Myntra tag means appreciating the technology that ensures the right product reaches the right customer, fast, reliably, and with full traceability.
