GS1 numbers, represented as barcodes, can identify all products for sale, trade or transport and are used to monitor and control the flow of goods from supplier to customer.

The GS1 system is recognised at all points in the supply chain, from the handling of raw materials through to check-out. It can be used in manufacturing, distribution, warehousing and retail enabling the automated collection and validation of data. The GS1 system offers a way to capture and communicate vital management information in a more efficient, more accurate, and more timely manner.

Electronic trading systems such as EDI manage the information that flows up and down the supply chain. Integrating these with the GS1 system allows business, industry and government to implement electronic commerce solutions that significantly enhance supply chain management at local, national and international levels.