# Do I need GS1 barcodes for EDI? What's the difference between UPC and GTIN?

Barcodes and EDI are separate but tightly connected, and most retailers require both before you can ship.
UPC vs. GTIN: A UPC is a 12-digit barcode on your product packaging — it's actually a type of GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). GTIN is the umbrella term that includes UPC-A (12 digits, North America), EAN-13 (13 digits, international), and other formats. If you already have UPCs from GS1, you likely have what you need at the product level.
GS1-128 shipping labels: These are the barcoded labels on your shipping cartons and pallets — not on the individual product. They contain your SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code) and tie directly to the ASN (856) you send via EDI. When the retailer scans that label at receiving, it matches against your ASN data. Mismatches cause chargebacks.
Where this connects to EDI: Your ASN must reference the exact same GTINs and SSCCs that appear on your physical labels. If your product data is inconsistent: wrong UPC in the EDI document vs. what's on the box, you get compliance failures.
Our managed EDI platform, Elevate supports GS1-128 labels and packing slips creation as per your retailer's requirements starting at $250 one-time fee for setup and a minimum monthly. To discuss your specific requirements, talk to our EDI experts at <a class="a a--md" elv="true" href="https://calendly.com/edisupportllc/30-minute-meeting-z">https://calendly.com/edisupportllc/30-minute-meeting-z</a>

##### Post Metadata
- Posted at: 3 months ago
- Author title: Always By Your Side, Solving EDI Challenges
- Net upvotes: 1



## Related Product
[Elevate](https://www.g2.com/products/edi-support-llc-elevate/reviews)

## Related Category
[Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)](https://www.g2.com/categories/electronic-data-interchange-edi)

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