GLN (Global Location Number)

As the name implies, the GLN is the GS1 Identification Key for Locations. The GLN can be used to identify physical locations and legal entities where is a need to retrieve pre-defined information to improve the efficiency of communication with the supply-chain. Global Location Numbers are a prerequiste for GS1 eCom message or to access information from the Global Data Synchronisation Network.

For help implementing GLNs, visit our GLN Allocation Rules.

The GLN is constructed as follows:

GS1 Company Prefix >                 < Location Reference												Check Digit
N1	N2	N3	N4	N5	N6	N7	N8	N9	N10	N11	N12	N13

GLN Extensions

Global Location Numbers may also use an optional extension component using the Application Identifier (254) to support is restricted for internal purposes. Although optional, when used AI (254) must be in conjunction with AI (414) Identification of a physical location and can be encoded using an EPC tag, a GS1-128 symbol or a GS1 DataBar symbol.

The GLN Extension will not be communicated with trading partners except by mutual agreement and has been developed in expectation that it will be an important business requirement with the EPC Network. Locations that currently have a GLN may also use an optional GLN Extension component to distinguish unique locations (storage slots, door locations, bin storage, shelves, peg holes, rack, cabinet, computer/communication bays, etc.). However, a company may choose to assign a unique GLN, without an Extension component, as a way to identify these locations.

For a more detailed overview on the benefits of GLN see GLN Executive Summary.

Information about other Keys

• GTIN - Global Trade Item Number
• SSCC – Serial Shipping Container Code
• GRAI – Global Returnable Asset Identifier
• GIAI – Global Individual Asset Identifier
• GSRN – Global Service Relation Number
• GDTI – Global Document Type Identifier
• GSIN - Global Shipment Identification Number
• GINC - Global Identification Number for Consignment