GS1 traceability standards
GS1 Global Traceability Standard (GTS2) introduces two key concepts for interoperable traceability: 1) Critical Tracking Events (CTEs), these are the actual events, such as receiving, packing, shipping, transporting, that occur to the traceable object during its lifecycle, and 2) Key Data Elements (KDEs), these are the elements of data that describe the actual instances of the CTEs.
GS1 identification standards Global Trade Item Number® (GTIN) and Global Location Number (GLN) uniquely identify the objects that are moving throughout supply chains and the locations to which and from which they travel. Identification keys enable the connection of physical and information flows within a trading partner’s processes as well as across different trading partners’ processes.
Barcodes and EPC/RFID, data capture standards, along with data sharing standards the Global Data Synchronisation Network® and EPCIS (Electronic Product Code Information Services) enable automated processing and sharing of information between and across trading partners. EPCIS is a critical component for traceability systems. EPCIS enables trading partners to share information about the physical movement and status of products across supply chains.
GS1 provides sector-specific traceability standards that enable traceability across and within industry sectors. Explore our standards for traceability in Healthcare, Retail and Rail. Interested in assessing your current traceability capabilities? The GS1 Global Traceability Compliance Criteria standard enables companies to evaluate their traceability control points and implement best practices.