# GS1 Digital Link

> GS1 Digital Link is a URL syntax that carries GS1 identifiers such as a GTIN, batch and expiry date. It lets a single QR code on packaging serve both consumers and supply-chain scanners.

Source: https://useqr.app/glossary/gs1-digital-link · Last reviewed 2026-08-21 · UseQR is free forever, MIT licensed, no signup.

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## The syntax

```
https://example.com/01/09520123456788/10/ABC123/17/260901
```

`01` is the GTIN, `10` the batch or lot, `17` the expiry date, `21` a serial number. A
web server reads the path and returns a consumer page; a supply-chain scanner reads the
same string as structured GS1 data.

## Why it matters now

Retail is migrating from the 1D barcode to a 2D code at point of sale — the **Sunrise 2027**
initiative. The same code that scans at the till can carry batch and expiry for recall
management, and link the consumer to provenance and allergen information.

The **EU Digital Product Passport** is pushing in the same direction: regulated categories
will need a data carrier linking a physical product to durable digital information.

## Practical notes

- Keep the domain short. The identifiers are long, and every character costs modules.
- Serialised codes are unique per item, so this implies variable-data printing.
- The uppercase-alphanumeric trick applies: an all-uppercase host and path encodes more
  efficiently.