Global Coupon Number (GCN)

Identify coupons with a GCN 

A Global Coupon Number (GCN) is used to uniquely and unambiguously identify a coupon.

Composition of an identification key / GCN

The structure of a GCN is based on the issuer's company prefix, which ranges from 7 to 11 digits. Additional digits are appended to reach a total of 12 digits, forming the complete identification key. A final check digit is then added to ensure the code's accuracy.

While the GCN's structure is similar to that of a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), the GCN cannot be defined by the coupon issuer. Instead, it is automatically generated by the GS1 system.

gtin-EN
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 C
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 X1 X2 X3 X4
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 X1 X2 X3
 5   4  M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 X1 X2
5 4 M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 X1

Note: If serialization of the GCN is required, 12 numeric characters can be added to create a unique serial number.

You can create your GCNs through My Coupon Manager. The GCN is encoded in either a GS1 DataBar Expanded or GS1 DataBar Expanded Stacked barcode type.