EDIFACT GIN segment: goods identity number.

The GIN segment carries identification numbers for goods, most commonly SSCCs (Serial Shipping Container Codes) and batch/lot numbers. GIN+BJ identifies a batch/lot number. GIN+ML or GIN+SRV identifies an SSCC. Used in DESADV messages within packaging groups.

Tag: GIN
Full name: Goods identity number
Part of the message: Packaging and shipment
Data elements: 2

A GIN segment, explained

Hover any part of the segment to see what it is. Open What your system receives to see the JSON or XML CleanEDI delivers.

GIN+BJ+LOT-2026-001'
GINGoods identity number
Serial shipping container code (SSCC): LOT-2026-001.
GIN
Goods identity number
BJ
Serial shipping container code (SSCC) (identity type)
1 Identity type BJSerial shipping container code (SSCC)
2 Identity number LOT-2026-001
```
{
  "serialShippingContainerCodeSscc": "LOT-2026-001"
}
```
Example shape. In production the field names and structure follow your own API contract.

GIN structure

Elements are separated by + and their parts by :. Positions match the explainer, so 2.3 is the third part of the second element.

Position	Element	Parts
1	Identity type	1.1 Code
2	Identity number	2.1 Number, 2.2 To number

Identity type (1.1)

Code	Meaning
`BJ`	Serial shipping container code (SSCC)
`BN`	Serial number
`BX`	Batch number

Common EANCOM and UN/EDIFACT values. Your trading partner's implementation guide is the final word on which codes they send.

Questions

GIN segment FAQ

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Explain my message

What is the GIN segment in EDIFACT?

GIN is the Goods Identity Number segment. The GIN segment carries identification numbers for goods, most commonly SSCCs (Serial Shipping Container Codes) and batch/lot numbers. GIN+BJ identifies a batch/lot number. GIN+ML or GIN+SRV identifies an SSCC. Used in DESADV messages within packaging groups.

What are the common GIN identity type codes?

BJ means serial shipping container code (sscc); BN means serial number; BX means batch number.

Where does GIN appear in an EDIFACT message?

GIN belongs to the packaging and shipment part of a message, alongside CPS, PAC, PCI, MEA.

How do I read a GIN segment in my own message?

Paste the message into the free CleanEDI explainer. It breaks every GIN segment into its elements, translates the codes and shows the JSON and XML your system would receive. Nothing you paste leaves your browser.

1	Identity type	`BJ`Serial shipping container code (SSCC)
2	Identity number	`LOT-2026-001`