Logistic shelf and master cartons should be identified with a GTIN-14 identifier. In most environments, these cartons are not read by point-of-sale scanners and do not carry a UPC barcode symbol.An ITF-14 barcode encodes the GTIN-14 information. The GTIN-14 data structure is comprised of four components:
- Indicator – This denotes the level of packaging for a particular carton. This one-digit prefix can range from 0 to 8.
- GS1 Company Prefix – Vendors must have UPC (GTINs) with a GS1 Company Prefix that uniquely identifies their company. Depending on the number of items a company needs to identify, a GS1 Company Prefix may be 7 to 10 digits in length. To obtain GS1 UPC barcodes, please visit www.barcode-us.com.
- Item Reference– References the same product number used for the item level GTIN (GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13) when a carton is made up of the same item. For cartons that contain an assortment of items a new product number is assigned.
- Check Digit – The last digit of GTIN-14 is a calculated check digit. Using a MOD10 check digit algorithm, the calculated check digit prevents substitution errors. An online check digit calculator is available at https://www.barcode.graphics/check-digit-calculator/.
Creating a GTIN-14 for a carton containing the same items
If the items within a carton have different product numbers (i.e. mixed pack), the Packaging Indicator should be a “0” and a brand new unique Product Number must be used to represent this unique assortment.
ITF-14 Barcode Symbol
The ITF-14 barcode is the most common data carrier used for the GTIN-14 data structure in retail organizations. ITF-14 is a 14-digit bar code that uses the “Interleaved 2 of 5” symbology (I2of5, or ITF). The GTIN-14 data can also be conveyed in other GS1 barcode data carriers, such as a GS1-128 barcode.
ITF-14 bar code symbols include bearer bars, which are surrounding bars that protect the bar code image. If the ITF-14 is printed directly on a corrugated carton it must be surrounded by bearer bars. For ITF-14 bar code symbols printed on a label, only horizontal bearer bars along the top and bottom are necessary. The following illustration displays example images and the minimum sizing for each scenario.
Size: The two components which determine the width of an ITF-14 bar code symbol are the x-dimension and the wide-to-narrow ratio. As illustrated in the above picture, the minimum x-dimension varies depending on how the ITF-14 is printed. The other sizing component of an ITF-14, the wide-to-narrow ratio, is a measure of the wide elements to the narrow elements. The wide-to-narrow ratio is held constant and should always be between 2.25:1 to 3:1.
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Ensure Barcode Compliance with Expert Support
Managing UPC barcodes and logistic GTIN-14 codes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. GS1 Barcode Support subscription is the comprehensive solution for GTIN management, barcode creation, and product data validation. An assigned consultant will be there to assist assigning GTINs and converting them to corresponding GTIN-14 case barcodes. With access to the powerful GTIN.cloud portal, you can confidently manage your barcodes, meet compliance requirements, and prepare for the future of barcode technology.
Expert Guidance From Assigned GS1 Barcode Consultant
Receive dedicated, personalized support from industry professionals with years of experience in barcode management and compliance. For members requiring logistic carton barcode identification, our personal consultants will help convert (GTIN-12) into corresponding GTIN-14(ITF-14 barcodes).
Access to GTIN.cloud
GTIN.cloud is the industry’s leading tool for managing GTIN assignments, validating UPC ownership, and preparing for GS1 Digital Link implementation. Subscriptions include multiple users per company at no additional cost.
Retailer and Platform Trust
Certified .eps barcodes and data validation are trusted by major retailers, including Amazon, ensuring compliance and credibility.
Accuracy and Compliance
All entered UPC product information is validated, prior to publishing, by a personal consultant to ensure accuracy and prevent bad data entering trading partners’ supply chains.
Future-Ready Technology
Stay ahead of industry changes with GS1 Digital Link readiness for 2027. The GTIN.cloud portal ensures your barcodes will meet tomorrow’s standards, integrating seamlessly into the digital ecosystem.
GTIN.cloud is GS1 Digital Link-ready for 2027, meaning your subscription is not just a solution for today but an investment in the future of barcode technology. As the industry moves toward linking barcodes with digital information, GTIN.cloud ensures your business stays compliant and competitive.