Trade items handled in the store’s checkout points are called consumer packages and are labeled with a barcode so that the trade item number can be read quickly and easily. With the trade item number, prices and functional names are retrieved from the store’s trade item directory to create a cash receipt. The trade item number is also a prerequisite for obtaining accurate sales statistics for, for example, purchasing decisions, monitoring profitability, and shelf coverage.
The process of labeling the consumer packaging takes place in two steps: First, you create the trade item number and assign to the consumer package, and then you label it with the barcode.
1. Create trade item numbers to assign to the consumer package
Before you label your consumer package with a barcode, the package must be assigned a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). There are three types of item numbers that you can use: GTIN-13, GTIN-8, or a Restricted Circulation Number.
GTIN-13 and EAN-13
Consumer packages are usually assigned a GTIN-13, to give the package a unique identity. If you choose to use GTIN-13, you label the package with the barcode EAN-13. EAN-13 transmits the item number to a barcode that can be printed on the packaging and is readable by a scanner at a checkout point.
GTIN-8 and EAN-8
GTIN-8 is used for small consumer packages that have limited space for a EAN-13 barcode. You should use EAN-8 to transfer GTIN-8 to a barcode. To create GTIN-8, you need a special GS1-8 prefix.
Restricted Circulation Number
Consumer items with varying measures, for example, meat, cheese, and fabrics, are assigned a national Restricted Circulation Number and labeled with the EAN-13 barcode. For items with varying measures, you need to order both a GS1 Company prefix and a GS1 Variable Weight Prefix.
- Order a GS1 Company Prefix and Variable Weight Prefix.
- Create a Restricted Circulation Number for your trade items.
2. Label the consumer packages with the barcode
Finally, after you have created a trade item number and assigned it to your consumer packages, you label the packages with a barcode. Keep in mind that GTIN-13 is only compatible with EAN-13, GTIN-8 with EAN-8, and Restricted Circulation Number with EAN-13.