What Is GTIN-8? Simple, Friendly Explanation of the 8-Digit Product Identifier

GTIN-8 is a concise version of a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) that fits into just eight digits. It is designed for products with very limited packaging space and is commonly encoded in the EAN-8 barcode symbol. For beginners, GTIN-8 allows products to be tracked, scanned at checkout, and referenced in databases without requiring a longer code that might not physically fit on small items.

Where GTIN fits in the GTIN family

GTIN is an umbrella term for several barcode number lengths: GTIN-12 (UPC-A), GTIN-13 (EAN-13), GTIN-14 (ITF-14), and GTIN-8 (EAN-8). All share the same purpose—uniquely identifying trade items worldwide—but each length serves different packaging and application constraints. GTIN-8 is the shortest of these and often used when packaging space is the key constraint.

Structure and check digit

A GTIN-8 consists of 8 digits: the first 7 are the item identifier (some numbers may be allocated by GS1 or national authorities), and the 8th digit is a check digit computed using a standard algorithm (modulo 10) to help detect scanning or entry errors. The check digit calculation alternates weights of 3 and 1, beginning with the rightmost digit of the seven-digit payload. The check digit ensures data integrity during scanning and manual entry.

How it’s created

GTIN-8 numbers are typically assigned by GS1 or national GS1 member organizations. In some cases, a brand or small manufacturer can request a small block of EAN-8 numbers directly from their GS1 office. Because the 8-digit space is limited, GS1 manages allocation carefully to avoid duplication and to maintain global uniqueness.

When and why to select GTIN-8

GTIN-8 is chosen primarily when physical label size prevents use of larger GTIN formats. Examples include cosmetic samples, small confectionery, jewelry tags, small hardware pieces, and tiny promotional items. It is also used when a business requires a small, easily printed code while still maintaining global identification standards.

Compatibility and conversion

Most modern point-of-sale and inventory systems can accept GTIN-8. For systems that expect a GTIN-13, GTIN-8 values can be converted by inserting leading zeros to form a 13-digit representation (for example, prefixing five zeros to make the GTIN-13 equivalent). This preserves the original GTIN-8 value while allowing compatibility with systems standardized on longer GTIN lengths.

Examples of common uses

• Single-serving candy wrappers and gum packets.
• Small cosmetic samples and single-use sachets.
• Small hardware like screws packaged in tiny blister packs.
• Compact promotional items and sample-size toiletries.

Advantages and limitations

• Advantages: Compact, globally standardized, scannable, appropriate for very small packaging.
• Limitations: Fewer unique numbers than GTIN-13 or GTIN-12, can constrain SKU expansion. Allocation is managed tightly by GS1, so large brands rarely use GTIN-8 for major product lines.

Check digit example (simple overview)

To compute the check digit for a GTIN-8, multiply each of the first seven digits by alternating weights of 3 and 1 starting from the rightmost digit, sum the results, and choose the check digit that brings the total up to the nearest multiple of 10. This is the same concept used in other GTIN check digit calculations and helps detect simple data entry or scanning errors.

Practical beginner steps

1. Decide if your product truly needs an 8-digit code (measure available label space and SKU needs).
2. Contact your national GS1 member organization to request GTIN-8 allocation or guidance.
3. Implement the EAN-8 barcode on your packaging using correct dimensions and a verified check digit.
4. Register the GTIN-8 with any online marketplaces or inventory systems that require product identifiers.

In short, GTIN-8 is the practical, space-saving GTIN option when packaging is small but a global, scannable identifier is still required. It preserves compatibility across retail, logistics, and e-commerce systems while keeping labels neat and unobtrusive on tiny products.