GTIN

Term from Ecommerce industry explained for recruiters

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a standardized number used worldwide to identify products in retail and e-commerce. Think of it as a product's unique passport number that helps track items across different stores, warehouses, and online platforms. It's like a more advanced version of a barcode system, and it's essential for businesses selling products online or in stores. When you see terms like UPC, EAN, or ISBN on products, these are actually different types of GTINs. This standardization helps businesses manage inventory, list products on marketplaces like Amazon or Walmart, and ensure customers get exactly what they ordered.

Examples in Resumes

Managed product database of over 10,000 items with GTIN and UPC compliance

Implemented GTIN management system for multichannel e-commerce operations

Led team in standardizing product data using Global Trade Item Number across all platforms

Typical job title: "Product Data Specialists"

Also try searching for:

E-commerce Data Specialist Product Content Manager Catalog Manager Product Information Specialist E-commerce Operations Specialist Product Data Coordinator Inventory Systems Specialist

Where to Find Product Data Specialists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a GTIN system for a company transitioning from local to international sales?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover planning for different GTIN types (UPC, EAN) across markets, managing the transition of existing inventory, training staff, and ensuring compliance with different marketplace requirements.

Q: What strategies would you use to maintain GTIN data accuracy across multiple sales channels?

Expected Answer: Look for answers about centralized database management, automated verification systems, regular auditing processes, and procedures for handling product variations and bundles.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle product variations (size, color) in GTIN assignments?

Expected Answer: Should explain that each unique variation needs its own GTIN, describe a system for organizing parent-child relationships between products, and mention how this affects marketplace listings.

Q: What are common issues with GTIN compliance in e-commerce, and how do you address them?

Expected Answer: Should discuss duplicate GTINs, missing numbers, incorrect format issues, and describe processes for verification and correction.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a GTIN and why is it important in e-commerce?

Expected Answer: Should explain that GTIN is a unique product identifier used globally, and mention its importance for inventory tracking, online selling, and maintaining product data accuracy.

Q: What are the different types of GTINs?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify UPC, EAN, ISBN as types of GTINs and explain their basic differences and common uses.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of product identifiers
  • Data entry and verification
  • Use of inventory management systems
  • Basic marketplace listing creation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multiple marketplace management
  • Product data standardization
  • Bulk data handling and validation
  • Integration with inventory systems

Senior (5+ years)

  • Global e-commerce operations
  • Cross-platform data strategy
  • Team management and training
  • System implementation and optimization

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with major e-commerce platforms
  • Lack of attention to detail in data management
  • No understanding of product categorization
  • Unfamiliarity with inventory management systems