In any track and trace introduction everyone talks about GTINs, GLNs, and SSCCs,but few pay attention to the silent power for all of them, the GS1 Company Prefix (GCP).
GCP is the root value that defines your entire identity in the global GS1 ecosystem. Once assigned, it becomes the foundation from which every GTIN, GLN, and SSCC is generated.
1. GTIN - Product Identity (The Item Layer)
GTIN = GCP + Item Reference + Check Digit
The GCP defines who owns the product identity.
The Item Reference differentiates SKUs under that prefix.
The Check Digit ensures mathematical validity.
2. GLN - Location & Party Identity (The Organizational Layer)
GLN = GCP + Location Reference + Check Digit
The GCP ensures every location (warehouse, manufacturing , hospital) belongs to the same corporate identity.
The Location Reference is a structured allocation defining physical or functional entities.
The Check Digit validates the GLN.
3. SSCC - Logistics Unit Identity (The Shipment Layer)
SSCC = Extension Digit + GCP + Serial Reference + Check Digit
The Extension Digit gives flexibility for pallet-level sequencing.
The GCP ties every SSCC back to the brand owner/shipper.
The Serial Reference uniquely identifies each logistic unit.
The Check Digit validates the structure.