1. What is GTIN-14?

GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) is a 14-digit number used to identify trade items at various packaging levels. It's part of the GS1 system for product identification and includes a check digit for validation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard GTIN check digit formula:

Where:

• \( sum \) — Sum of weighted digits (multiplying alternating digits by 1 and 3)
• \( \mod \) — Modulo operation (remainder after division)

Calculation Steps:

1. Start with the first 13 digits
2. Multiply each digit alternately by 1 and 3 (starting with 3 for the first digit)
3. Sum all the multiplied values
4. Calculate the check digit that makes the total sum a multiple of 10

3. Importance of Check Digits

Details: The check digit ensures data integrity by allowing detection of common data entry errors like single-digit errors or transposition errors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the first 13 digits of your GTIN-14 (without the check digit). The calculator will compute the correct check digit and display the complete GTIN-14.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between GTIN-14 and other GTINs?
A: GTIN-14 is used for cases, pallets, or multi-packs, while GTIN-12 (UPC), GTIN-13 (EAN), and GTIN-8 are used for individual products.

Q2: Why does the weighting alternate between 1 and 3?
A: This pattern helps detect transposition errors (when two adjacent digits are swapped) which wouldn't be caught with a simple sum.

Q3: Can this calculator validate existing GTIN-14s?
A: Yes, enter all 14 digits and compare the calculated check digit with the last digit of your GTIN-14.

Q4: What if my number is less than 13 digits?
A: For shorter GTINs (like 12-digit UPCs), add leading zeros to make 13 digits before calculating the check digit.

Q5: Are there any exceptions to this formula?
A: This is the standard GS1 check digit calculation used for all GTINs (GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, GTIN-14).