Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is a Trade Number?
- The Importance of GTINs in eCommerce
- Identifying and Obtaining GTINs
- Implementing GTINs on Shopify
- Conclusion
- FAQ
In the dynamic landscape of eCommerce, Shopify stands as a beacon for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to carve out their niche online. Amidst the plethora of terms and settings users encounter, one that often sparks a whirlwind of confusion is the "trade number." This elusive term, not to be confused with product-specific identifiers, is crucial for business owners who wish to navigate the Shopify platform seamlessly.
Introduction
Have you ever found yourself meticulously reviewing your Shopify settings only to stumble upon a field labeled "trade number" and found yourself puzzled? You're not alone. This term, while not frequently discussed, plays a pivotal role in the broader spectrum of eCommerce and product identification. With the rise of online shopping, the clarity and efficiency in product listings and shop settings have never been more crucial. This blog aims to demystify the concept of trade numbers on Shopify, explore their significance, and guide you through their application for your online store, ensuring your business not only complies with the relevant guidelines but utilizes these numbers for optimal operational efficiency.
By the end of this post, you'll have a thorough understanding of what a trade number is in the context of your Shopify store, how it differs from product barcodes like GTINs, and why it's more than just a technicality but a backbone for eCommerce success.
What is a Trade Number?
Traditionally, the term "trade number" might conjure images of financial transactions or international trade dealings. However, in the context of Shopify and eCommerce at large, it aligns more closely with business identification and product tracking.
At its core, a trade number on Shopify refers to Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), unique and internationally recognized identifiers for products. These numbers are crucial because they allow each product listed on your Shopify store to be identified and tracked across the global supply chain. From manufacturers to retailers, and finally, to consumers, GTINs ensure that products are precisely recognized, which in turn facilitates efficient inventory management, accurate sales tracking, and seamless customer shopping experiences.
The Importance of GTINs in eCommerce
GTINs are more than mere numbers. They are the linchpin in the world of eCommerce, ensuring that products can be easily found, compared, and purchased online. Here’s why they hold so much weight:
- Visibility in Marketplaces: Platforms like Google Shopping rely heavily on GTINs to list products accurately. Products without GTINs might not show up in search results, severely limiting their visibility to potential customers.
- Efficient Inventory Management: GTINs simplify the tracking of stock levels, helping businesses avoid overselling or stockouts.
- Data Analysis: With unique identifiers, businesses can more accurately analyze which products are performing well and which aren’t, informing better purchasing and marketing decisions.
Identifying and Obtaining GTINs
Now that we understand the importance of GTINs, let’s delve into identifying and obtaining these numbers for your products:
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Checking Existing GTINs: Many products, especially those sourced from established manufacturers or brands, already have GTINs. Tools like the Global Trade Item Number Database (GTINdb) can be used to check if a product already has a recognized GTIN.
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Obtaining New GTINs: If a product lacks a GTIN, businesses must contact their supplier or manufacturer to obtain one. For proprietary products, obtaining GTINs directly from GS1, the global authority on supply chain standards and identifiers, might be necessary.
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SKU vs. GTIN: It's essential to differentiate between stock keeping units (SKUs) and GTINs. While SKUs are internal product identifiers unique to each business, GTINs are global identifiers that ensure a product is recognizable across different platforms and supply chains.
Implementing GTINs on Shopify
With a clear understanding of what GTINs are and how to obtain them, the next step is implementing them on your Shopify store. Shopify’s platform allows for the seamless integration of GTINs within product listings. Accurately entering GTINs in the designated fields not only enhances product visibility across online marketplaces but also streamlines the integration with inventory management and fulfillment services.
Conclusion
Navigating the eCommerce landscape with its myriad of terminologies and requirements can be daunting. Yet, understanding the purpose and application of trade numbers, or GTINs, can significantly impact your store's success. These identifiers are not just numbers but are foundational elements that enhance product visibility, streamline operations, and ultimately, drive sales.
Embracing GTINs on Shopify means not only ensuring compliance with marketplace requirements but leveraging these identifiers to optimize your online store’s performance. Now that you're equipped with this knowledge, it's time to examine your own Shopify settings, ensure your products are properly identified, and set your store on the path to greater visibility and success.
FAQ
Q: Can I sell products on Shopify without a GTIN?
A: While it's possible to list products without GTINs, doing so may limit their visibility on major marketplaces and platforms that rely on these identifiers for product listing and comparison.
Q: How can I obtain a GTIN for my product?
A: If the product doesn’t already have a GTIN, you can request one from your supplier or manufacturer, or if applicable, obtain it directly from GS1.
Q: Are GTINs necessary for handmade or unique products?
A: Unique or handmade products may not require GTINs for personal storefronts; however, to sell these items on broader platforms or utilize certain marketing tools, obtaining a GTIN might be recommended.
Q: How do GTINs improve inventory management?
A: GTINs allow for the global tracking of each product variant, facilitating accurate stock level monitoring, minimizing the risk of overselling, and simplifying the restocking process.
Q: Can GTINs affect my store’s SEO?
A: Yes, GTINs can positively impact your SEO by ensuring your products are correctly indexed and visible in search results across various online shopping and comparison sites.
