The numbering of coupons
A coupon is created to encode a discount promotion and the amount of discount. For the creation of the barcode a special GS1 prefix, that allows a GTIN-13 to be formed, must be issued so that the coupon includes the amount of discount and is identifiable at the point of sale.
In Greece we issue coupon prefixes that express the amount of discount in euros, therefore they can be used in all European countries using this currency. They begin with the special prefix 981 or 982 and according to their structure that can encode a value of discount with one or two decimals from 0€ to 99.9€
The symbol used is that of EAN-13, the same rules and specifications of the GS1 system for size and printing apply.
Coupon data structure
|
Coupon issuer number |
Coupon reference number |
Redemption value |
Check digit |
Coupon issuer number
Attributed by GS1 and consists of 7 digits. When it begins with 981 it defines the amount of discount by one decimal, when it begins with 982 it defines the amount of discount by two decimals.
Coupon Reference Number
Consists of 2 digits and reflects the discount action ( max. 100 discount coupons)
Redemption value
Consists of 3 digits and reflects amounts with 1 or 2 decimal digits, depending on whether the prefix begins with 981 or 982 respectively. In case of free sample, the redemption value is 000.
Check Digit
It is the last digit of a GTIN. It is always calculated by an algorythm based on the previous digits and ensures that the code has the correct composition.
Example
Coupon code 9813765030011 where
- 9813765 coupon issuer number
- 03 coupon reference number
- 001 redemption value expressed with the accuracy of 1 decimal digit (eg 00,1 = 10 cents)
- 1 digit number
Coupon code 9828508010106 where
- 9828508 coupon issuer number
- 01 coupon reference number
- 010 redemption value expressed with the accuracy of 2 decimal digits (eg 010 = 10 cents)
- 6 check digit
