GSRN

GSRN stands for Global Service Relationship Number. It is a global identifier defined by GS1 to uniquely identify a service relationship between two or more parties in commercial exchanges. A service relationship refers to an agreement under which one party provides services to another, such as maintenance, outsourcing, or customer support. The GSRN is designed to support data synchronization, electronic data interchange, and master data management within GS1 systems by providing a stable, unique reference to the service relationship independent of locations or assets.

The GSRN is typically a 13-digit numeric identifier. It is generated within the GS1 system, with digits that often reflect the assigning organization’s GS1 prefix and digits that identify the service relationship instance. The final digit is a check digit computed using the GS1 check digit algorithm.

In practice, GSRNs are used in supply chain documents and systems to reference a specific service relationship rather than repeating contract details. They can be linked to GLNs that identify involved locations and may be used alongside other GS1 identifiers such as GIAI, depending on the data model and integration needs. The GS1 General Specifications define the use of GSRN within data pools and, where applicable, the Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN) context to enable consistent master data across trading partners.

Assignment and management of GSRNs are handled by GS1 member organizations; organizations must be authorized to obtain and maintain GSRNs. GSRNs are particularly relevant for service-based exchanges, vendor-managed services, support contracts, and service-level agreements where a portable, globally unique reference is needed.

See also: GLN, GIAI, GS1, GDSN.