GS1 General Specifications

The GS1 General Specifications are the core standards document describing how barcodes and identification keys should be used to comply with GS1 standards. They are used throughout the GS1 System.

Key Questions

• Where can I find the GS1 General Specifications?
• How are the GS1 General Specifications structured?
• Where can I find a basic introduction to GS1 identification keys?
• Where can I find an overview of GS1 bar code symbologies?

 Where can I find the GS1 General Specifications?

For optimal support, obtain a copy of the GS1 General Specifications from your local GS1 Member Organisation. You can also buy a copy of the GS1 General Specifications for 100 euro from GS1 Global Office.

How are the GS1 General Specifications structured?

The main sections are as follows:

Section 1: Basics and Principles of the GS1 System

This section contains the GS1 principles of Open Standards, Differentiation, Transparency, and Non-Significance. Also included are the identification system policies under which the specifications are developed, the technology adoption policies, and the methods by which Sunrise and Sunset Dates are set. Human factors and performance requirements are included in this section.

Section 2: Application Identification

This section contains the Areas of system Application:

1. 1. Trade Items
2. 2. Numbering and Marking of Logistics Units
3. 3. Assets
4. 4. Locations
5. 5. Numbering and Marking of Service Relationships
6. 6. Numbering and Symbol Marking for Special Applications

Section 3: GS1 Application Identifier Definitions

This section contains the definition and data structure for each Application Identifier independent of the Data Carrier.

Section 4: Application Rules

User established application rules for GS1 keys are contained in this section:

• Global Trade Item Numbers (GTIN)
• Logistics Unit (SSCC)
• Global Location Numbers (GLN)
• Global Individual Asset Identifier (GIAI)
• Global Returnable Asset Identifier (GRAI)
• Global Service Relation Number (GSRN)
• and Global Document Type Identifier (GDTI)

Section 5: Data Carriers

This section contains the technical specifications and production and quality assessment specifications for GS1 approved data carriers. It contains specifications for each unique application environment.

Section 6: Symbol Placement Guidelines

This section contains package bar code placement guidelines and Label placement for transport, clothing, and fashion accessories.

Section 7: System Processing in EDP Applications

This section contains bar code processing techniques, message structures, and check digit calculations.

Section 8: Glossary

This section contains the GS1 Glossary of Terms and Definitions, Acronyms and Legacy (Retired) terms.