What is the Global Location Number (GLN) and what is it used for?

The Global Location Number is a unique 13-digit numerical identifier created by GS1 to unambiguously identify locations and entities within the supply chain. It functions as a “digital address,” allowing systems and companies (ERP, EDI, marketplaces, etc.) to speak the same language and avoid identification errors.

Quick Definition

The GLN Code assigns a standardized and verifiable identity to:

Legal entities (corporate names, subsidiaries).
Physical locations (offices, factories, distribution centers).
Functional units (departments, loading docks, delivery points).

With a Global Location Number, each party knows who their counterpart is and where they are located in every transaction

What information is associated with a GLN?

Although the GLN is only the code itself, it is usually linked to master data such as company name, tax ID/VAT number, address, contact details, billing data, and responsible parties. This “data package” enhances traceability, data quality, and master data governance among trading partners.

Why it is important for companies?

Unique and global identification. Prevents duplications and confusion between headquarters, warehouses, and internal units.
EDI standardization. The Global Location Number travels through orders, invoices, DESADV/shipping notices, or logistics labels, ensuring smooth and automated workflows.
Fewer errors and lower costs. Reduces issues caused by misidentified addresses, misassigned invoices, or failed deliveries.
Interoperability. Connects with ERP systems, EDI platforms, logistics operators, and international marketplaces without ad hoc mappings.

GLN and EDI: The foundation of automation

In Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), the GLN identifies the buyer, seller, delivery point, and billing point. Examples:

Order (ORDERS): buyer’s and supplier’s GLNs ensure correct routing.
Invoice (INVOIC): issuer’s and receiver’s GLNs allow automatic posting.
Logistics (DESADV/SSCC label): warehouse, dock, or cross-dock GLNs allow efficient receiving.

Result: less operational friction, clearer validations, and faster payment cycles.

Success Story: ASICS and Process Automation with EDI

The ASICS success story clearly shows the benefits of a well-implemented EDI solution. The company launched a digital transformation project with EDICOM to automate its Order-to-Cash cycle (from order to payment) and speed up the onboarding of new retailers into its distribution network.

Discover the full story

GLN within GS1 (and differences from other codes)

GS1 maintains a system of global, consistent identifiers:

GLN (Global Location Number): identifies locations and entities.
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number): identifies products.
SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code): identifies logistics units.
Barcodes/GS1-128 and GS1 QR: encode these identifiers for automatic scanning.

Complementary roles: the GTIN ensures item-level traceability; the GLN ensures that information and goods reach the correct destination.

How to obtain a Global Location Number?

Apply to GS1 (through your local member organization).
Receive a GLN that is unique worldwide.
Integrate it into your ERP, address master data, and EDI platform.
Use it operationally in EDI documents, logistics, electronic invoicing, and interactions with Public Administrations.

In Spain, management is handled through AECOC (a GS1 member).

Key Benefits

Data quality and compliance. A standardized identifier reduces discrepancies, simplifies audits, and supports regulatory compliance
End-to-end traceability. Tracks orders, shipments, and documents at every stage of the supply chain.
International scalability. Facilitates expansion into new countries, partners, and digital channels without rebuilding integrations.

Common use cases

Multi-warehouse logistics network: assign a GLN to each site, aisle, or loading dock to streamline inbound receipts and outbound shipments
B2B/B2G Electronic Invoicing: using the sender’s and receiver’s GLNs speeds up routing and validation.
Global marketplaces: link stores, fulfillment centers, and returns to specific company locations.
EDI projects with retailers or 3PL providers: GLNs eliminate heterogeneous internal mappings and shorten time-to-go-live.

Best Practices for Implementing GLN

Master data governance: define a catalog of locations and their lifecycle (creation, modification, deactivation).
Continuous integration: synchronize the GLN with ERP, WMS/TMS, CRM, and the EDI platform.
Labeling and documentation: use GLN in templates, labels, and portals to reinforce adoption.
Quality KPIs: measure rejections due to incorrect locations, receiving times, and touchless invoice rates.

The GLN is more than just a number: it is the key to interoperability that enables a digital, traceable, and efficient supply chain. By aligning with GS1, it ensures common standards across companies, industries, and countries. For organizations with multiple sites or high transaction volumes, implementing GLNs is an accelerator of EDI automation, data quality, and international expansion.

Got your GLNs? Now you need an EDI solution

EDICOM is an EDI provider with over 30 years of experience and projects delivered worldwide. Our EDI SaaS solution automates transactions across your supply chain, where GLN codes serve as the identifiers for your company and its locations, and GTINs identify product units.

Discover the core capabilities of our EDI SaaS software in just 3 minutes: