GS1 Company Prefix
The foundational block of GS1 identifiers: the company prefix allocated by GS1.
Definition
The GCP is a 4-to-12-digit string licensed to a company by its GS1 Member Organisation. The company appends its own reference (item, location, shipment) and a check digit to form a GTIN, GLN or SSCC. GCP length is variable: a shorter prefix leaves more digits for references.
Origin
Defined in the GS1 General Specifications (section 1, “GS1 Company Prefix”), published and maintained by GS1 AISBL.
Example in context
GCP “0614141” → GTIN-13 “0614141 00012 7” (prefix + item reference + check digit).