Navigating GS1 Standards can be challenging—especially for companies new to supply chain logistics or expanding into new sales channels. A clearinghouse that employs GS1-certified experts provides a crucial advantage by bridging the gap between compliance and commercial success.
What is a Clearinghouse’s Role?
Clearinghouses often act as intermediaries that validate, format, and distribute product and financial data between manufacturers and retailers. They help with:
- Product data onboarding
- Retailer item setup
- Deduction and compliance management
- Coupon processing
- EDI transactions
Why GS1 Expertise Matters
- Accuracy in Product Setup
Incorrect GTIN assignments or mislabeling can lead to retailer rejections, delays, or costly chargebacks. GS1 experts ensure accurate and compliant product coding aligned with global standards. - Faster Time to Market
With in-house GS1 knowledge, the clearinghouse can rapidly onboard items, avoiding weeks of back-and-forth with retailers or standards organizations. - Proactive Problem Resolution
Experts can diagnose and fix GS1-related issues before they become costly—such as duplicate barcodes, misallocated GTINs, or inconsistent data structures. - Avoiding Risky Shortcuts
Using another company’s GS1 prefix—whether intentionally or out of misunderstanding—is not just non-compliant; it can be considered fraudulent. This practice can trigger retailer audits, mandatory repackaging, delisting of products, or even legal implications. GS1 experts guide businesses to avoid these pitfalls and ensure each GTIN is properly licensed and traceable. - Strategic Guidance
GS1 professionals help clients adapt to changing standards, implement new barcode formats (like 2D barcodes), or integrate GS1 with systems like GDSN.
Support for Complex Retailer Requirements
Each retailer has unique item setup processes. GS1-savvy clearinghouse teams ensure compliance with even the most demanding partners, helping brands meet expectations efficiently and accurately.
Real-World Value
- One enterprise client reduced item setup errors by over 70% after engaging with a clearinghouse that embedded GS1 support into their onboarding process.
- Another client saved tens of thousands of dollars annually by avoiding retailer fines through proper GTIN validation.
- Utilizing another company’s GS1 is not only fraudulent but it create a lot of chaos as it pertains to retail POS data and getting back clean CPG data on offers.
Conclusion
Having GS1 experts on staff turns a clearinghouse into a strategic asset, not just a service provider. It ensures clients are well-positioned to meet retailer expectations, accelerate growth, and reduce risk—all while enhancing trust and data integrity across the supply chain.
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