GLN (Global Location Number)
What are GLNs?
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 prerequisite 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 simply a 13-digit number used to uniquely identify any legal entity, functional entity, or physical location. The GLN is constructed as follows:
GLNs can identify:
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A physical location
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A legal entity
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A function within a legal entity
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Why would you use GLNs?
GLNs are specific to one unique location within the world.
You are most likely part of several distinct 'supply chains'. Within these 'supply chains' you take on different roles such as:
- Supplier/Seller of finished goods to distributor(s)
- Consumer/Buyer of parts and/or raw materials
- Consumer/Buyer of services (e.g. labelling, packaging, transportation, etc.)
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Consumer/Buyer of products to support operations (e.g machinery, industrial parts, maintenance supplies, computers and office equipment, office supplies, etc)
All of these supply chains require up-to-date, accurate location information everyday.
Benefits of having a GLN
- Multi-sector: GLNs can be used by any company or organisation, in any sector, in any part of the world.
- Flexible: GLNs may be assigned to any location, providing maximum flexibility to meet the needs/requirements of all businesses anywhere in the world-from loading docks at a warehouse, to production lines or specific points along the production line.
- Simple: GLNs enable organisations to efficiently and effectively manage precise supply chain information for all of their various corporate identifiers and physical locations using standardised identifies which they assign and control.
- Open: A user can share their GLNs with anyone with whom they do business. Please note that GLN ownership must remain with the legal entity it was assigned by GS1 (i.e. distributors cannot pass on their GLNs to suppliers to use as their own).
- Automatic Data Capture: Suppliers can encode GLNs in data carriers, such as bar codes and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, to support automatic data capture.
- Enhanced Organisational Visibility: Active use of GLNs in your business creates a structured part/location hierarchy that provides a precise business view of your organisation.
- Global: Implemented around the world and supported by GS1 NZ and the international network of other GS1 Member Organisations, covering more than 100 countries, in the local language.
How do you get GLNs for your business?
Simply log into your MyGS1 account to obtain your GLNs!
Full members of GS1 NZ receive 5 free GLNs, which can be accessed through logging into MyGS1. If you require more GLNs there is a function in MyGS1 where you can purchase via credit card.
If you can not remember your MyGS1 login details please call 04-494-1050 or email info@gs1nz.org
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.
