RFQ and technical handoffs
Size Labels and SKUs: Build a Variant-to-Identifier Map
Use one mapping row for each garment variant, connecting the style, color, size designation, exact label text and internal SKU. Add a GTIN only when an authorized identifier has been assigned for the applicable trade item. GS1 US distinguishes trade-item identifiers, internal inventory identifiers and the barcodes that carry data; they are not interchangeable fields.
For operations buyers preparing a multi-variant label handoff.
Keep size meaning separate from the inventory code
Record the size designation used in the order and the exact text printed or woven on the label. A SKU may encode the size or may be an unrelated internal code; do not make the label operator infer the size from the code. Include the buyer’s style and color references so a repeated size word cannot link two different variants accidentally.
Add external identifiers only from the responsible owner
Ask the brand or receiving channel which identifier and data carrier it requires. Where a GTIN is needed, obtain the assigned value and its variant mapping from the responsible party; do not generate a plausible-looking number in the tech pack. Record the supplied artwork or data-file revision separately from the human-readable size text. A scan result alone does not demonstrate that the encoded value belongs to the intended garment.
Approve both the mapping and a representative applied label
Review the matrix for missing variants, duplicate internal codes and inconsistent label wording. Compare the approved row with the actual label on a representative garment and, where applicable, the receiver’s decoding result. Keep unassigned identifiers on hold rather than filling blank fields with guesses. If a variant changes after approval, update the mapping and identify which label files and packed units are affected.
Decision and evidence checklist
| Decision | Include in the brief | Review evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Garment variant | Style, color and size designation | Order variant matrix |
| Printed identity | Exact size text and internal SKU | Approved label file revision |
| External identifier | Assigned value and required carrier, if applicable | Owner-provided mapping and receiving check |
What this brief does and does not establish
GS1 US is cited only for identifier distinctions. This guide assigns no identifiers and asserts no universal legal, retailer or channel labeling requirement.
- GS1 US: What Is a GTIN?: GTIN identifies a trade item; a barcode is a data carrier and SKU is an internal inventory identifier. Identifier distinction only; no invented GTIN, universal channel rule or legal requirement.
Send the variant-to-label matrix to MyOwnWear with approved size text and owner-supplied identifier files; identify every unresolved code before label approval. Open the MyOwnWear RFQ form.
Buyer questions
Is an SKU the same as a GTIN?
No. GS1 US describes an SKU as an internal inventory identifier, while a GTIN identifies a trade item.
Can a barcode be approved by appearance alone?
Appearance is only one check. Where scanning is required, compare the decoded data with the intended variant and receiving requirement.
Should every buyer use the same label identifier?
Do not assume a universal rule. Confirm the actual channel and project requirements with the responsible owner.