In one sentence
A GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, is the barcode number, like a UPC or EAN, that identifies one product the same way across every retailer, marketplace and shopping engine, so they all know it's the same item.
GTIN formats: UPC, EAN and more
- UPC (GTIN-12): the 12-digit code common in the US and Canada
- EAN (GTIN-13): the 13-digit code used in most other countries
- GTIN-8: a short code for very small packages
- GTIN-14: used on cases and cartons, not single items
Each product variant gets its own GTIN. A shirt in three sizes has three.
GTIN vs. SKU
See SKU for the code you use to track your own stock.
Why GTINs matter for ecommerce
Shopping engines and marketplaces use GTINs to match your listing to the right product, merge reviews and compare prices. Google Merchant Center asks for a GTIN on products that have one.
A correct GTIN in your product feed helps AI shopping tools recognize your product as the same item across every place it's listed.
GTIN FAQs
Do I need a GTIN if I make my own products?
Not always. Many channels let you list your own brand's products without one. If you plan to sell on large marketplaces or through retailers, get them, because many require them.
Where do I get GTINs?
From GS1, the organization that manages barcode numbers. Buy them from GS1 or its local member office, not from resellers, so the numbers are registered to your brand.
Where does the GTIN go in Shopify?
In the Barcode field on each variant. Shopify passes it to sales channels that read it.
Related terms