Packaging Levels are based on a hierarchy which normally starts with the "each" unit first, and then "inner pack," and so on. In GS1 standards, each packaging level would normally be allocated its own unique identifier - the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN).
Let’s take a look at the more common packaging levels:
The lowest level of the item hierarchy intended or labelled for individual sale. Generally, this is the consumer unit sold at the check-out or online. In the UK, this sort of item would typically be identified with a GTIN-13 or a GTIN-8 if it was a small item.
Example: a single jar.
Intermediate package of multiples of the same trade item or a predefined assortment of trade items.
This level of packaging is normally broken up before sale to a customer.
Example: pack of yoghurts for shipping/receiving only.
A standard shipping unit that contains “eaches” (packaged either individually or grouped as an inner pack).
Example: a case containing jars.