How is the GSIN Formatted?
GSIN identifies the logical grouping of one or several logistic units each identified with a separate SSCC and containing trade items as being part of a specific seller / buyer relationship and that travels under one dispatch advice and/or Bill of Lading.
- Application Identifier (AI): AI 402 to indicate a GSIN
- GS1 Company Prefix: A globally unique number assigned to a GS1 member company
- Shipper Reference: The number allocated to identify the shipment of logistical units
- Check Digit: A mod-10 algorithm digit used to check for input errors.
The Application Identifier (402) indicates that the GS1 Application Identifier data field contains a GSIN. When encoded within a barcode, the available Symbologies are the GS1-128 and the GS1 DataMatrix. The GSIN is a 17-digit numerical number, including the Check Digit. The combined length of the GS1 Company Prefix and Shipper Reference will always total 16 digits.
- USE YOUR GS1 COMPANY PREFIX. Your GS1 Company Prefix is the globally unique number assigned to your company by GS1 US™ or another GS1 Member Organization. GS1 Company Prefixes are assigned to companies in varying lengths. Some GS1 US members may have a prefix license certificate that shows only a U.P.C. Company Prefix (formerly a UCC Company Prefix). A U.P.C. Company Prefix must be converted to a GS1 Company Prefix for use in the GSIN. This is accomplished by adding a zero to the front of the U.P.C. Company Prefix. The following table illustrates the conversion of a U.P.C. Company Prefix to a GS1 Company Prefix for use with GSINs.
- CREATE THE SHIPPER REFERENCE. This number is assigned by you, the holder of the GS1 Company Prefix, one-by-one to create a globally unique GSIN. The Shipper Reference length varies as a function of the GS1 Company Prefix length. Note: The combined length of the GS1 Company Prefix and Shipper Number is always 16 digit.
- CALCULATE THE CHECK DIGIT. The Check Digit is a calculated one-digit number used to ensure data integrity. To understand how this digit is calculated, refer here.
To learn more about applying EDI standards and become a certified EDI Professional please visit our course schedule page.