A GLN (Global Location Number) is a 13-digit identifier assigned by GS1 to uniquely identify legal entities, functional entities, and physical locations worldwide. In e-invoicing, GLNs are used as party identifiers — particularly in PEPPOL and UBL invoices where they are referenced with scheme ID 0088.
GLNs are especially common in retail, logistics, and healthcare supply chains where trading partners need to exchange invoices and despatch advices referencing specific warehouses, stores, or legal entities.
Key facts
- Issued by: GS1 (via national member organisations such as GS1 Switzerland)
- Length: 13 digits (12 digits + 1 check digit, GS1 check algorithm)
- PEPPOL scheme ID:
0088 - Used in: UBL
<PartyIdentification>, PEPPOL BIS Billing 3.0 - Not to be confused with: UID (Swiss company ID) or DUNS number