When do I need to change the GTIN of an item and when can I keep the same GTIN?

There are international rules for which changes to an item require the item to be given a new GTIN and which changes are permitted without a new GTIN being allocated.

You must change the GTIN if you change:

• brand name
• package dimensions
• content’s weight or volume
• comparison amount
• contained items (number or type)
• ingredients (where this is significant for the consumer). Example: An item’s ingredients change from gluten-free to containing gluten. The change affects consumers who are gluten intolerant.

You do not need to change the GTIN for:

• a new package design
• promotions when material such as competition details is included in or printed on the package, on condition that volume, weight or price are not changed
• a new supplier selling existing stocks
• an item that changes status from not orderable to orderable.

Read more about the international GTIN allocation rules >>