GS1 standards for small businesses selling on TikTok Shop

Product Identifier Codes (GTINs) for TikTok Shop Sellers in Ireland 

Selling on TikTok Shop? To get your products listed and discovered, you’ll need Product Identifier Codes—also known as GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers). These codes make your products globally unique, verifiable, and trusted by marketplaces and retailers.

What are Product Identifier Codes?

Product Identifier Codes are part of the GS1 global standards system. They ensure every product variation (size, colour, pack size) has its own unique number. Common formats include:

• UPC – 12 digits

• EAN – 8, 13, or 14 digits

• GTIN‑14 – 14 digits (used on outer cases)

TikTok Shop and other marketplaces increasingly require authentic GS1 GTINs to verify listings and prevent duplicates.

For your listings to be recognised as authentic, the GTINs you use should be issued and licensed through a GS1 Member Organisation (in Ireland, that’s GS1 Ireland) and registered in GS1’s global registries so retailers and marketplaces can verify them

Why Irish SMEs Need GTINs for TikTok Shop

• Faster product approval: Avoid listing rejections by using GS1‑issued GTINs.

• Better visibility: Verified GTINs improve search and trust on TikTok Shop.

• Future‑proof your business: Prepare for the global move to 2D barcodes by 2027.

How to Find or Get a GTIN

• Already on your product? Check the barcode on your packaging for an EAN or UPC.

• Don’t have one? If you’re the brand owner, you need to Become a Member to license authentic GTINs.

• Manage your codes easily: Use Barcode Manager - free for members - to create and maintain your GTINs.

Where to Use GTINs on TikTok Shop

• Seller Centre: Enter the GTIN in the Variation List section.

• Batch Tool: Use the product_identifier_code field.

• API: Use identifier_code and identifier_code_type.

Tip: Once submitted, a GTIN can’t be changed for that variation—so get it right first time.

How to Insert GTINs Correctly

1. Select the correct type (EAN/UPC/GTIN).

2. Match the format (e.g., 13 digits for EAN).

3. Avoid duplicates—each variation needs its own GTIN.

4. Complete all mandatory fields before saving.

5. For bundles, add extra IDs (up to 10), separated by commas.

How to get a Product Identifier Code (GTIN) in Ireland

• If you’re the brand owner/manufacturer: Join GS1 Ireland to license barcodes (GTINs/EAN/UPC) and manage your product numbers correctly from day one.
• If you resell branded items: Request the correct GTIN from the manufacturer/brand owner.

GS1 Ireland members can create and manage GTINs with  Barcode Manager, and make trusted brand‑owner data discoverable worldwide via Verified by GS1 and the GS1 Registry Platform—helping visibility in marketplaces and online stores. These services are provided for members and support better product discovery and acceptance across digital channels.

Benefits of GS1 Ireland Membership for SMEs

• Globally trusted barcodes: Your GTINs are recognised worldwide.

• Verified by GS1: Make your product data discoverable and trusted by marketplaces.

• Barcode Manager: Create and manage barcodes easily here.

• Digital Link: Connect your products to rich digital content, learn more here.

• Expert support: Guidance from the GS1 Ireland team to help you get it right.

Ready to start?Join now and get your first GTINs in minutes.

Best Practice for TikTok Shop Sellers

• Use authentic GS1 GTINs—never invent numbers.

• Assign one GTIN per unique product variation.

• Keep your product data accurate and consistent.

• Plan for 2D barcodes now to stay ahead.

Product Identifiers for TikTok Shop FAQ

Learn more about TikTok Shop Ireland