Direct answer
Use GS1 Digital Link to connect an identified product to controlled digital resources, but treat the resolver, destination pages and production code as one system. Define who owns each identifier and link, keep the destination available, and verify the printed code on the actual pack.
Define the product identity first
The code should resolve from a controlled product identifier, not from an ad-hoc marketing URL that changes with each campaign. Define the GTIN and any batch, date or serial elements required by the use case.
Separate globally managed identity from local campaign content. This allows the physical code to remain stable while authorised digital resources are updated.
Design a resilient destination architecture
Decide which resolver or redirect service receives the Digital Link and which resources are available for consumers, retailers, service teams or regulators. Plan ownership, access control, monitoring and a fallback when a target system is unavailable.
Avoid a short-lived landing page that disappears while the product remains in the market. Keep redirects and product records for the period required by the product and market.
Print and verify the code on the pack
The code must survive the production process, distribution and normal use. Test dimensions, contrast, print method, gloss, curvature, folds, abrasion and condensation. Use the longest expected data string during trials because it can increase symbol density.
Verify samples from the complete run and define an objective acceptance threshold. A camera can check presence and data, but an appropriate verifier is still needed for formal print-quality evidence.
Govern content and change
Create an approval workflow for product data, instructions, recycling information, allergens, safety information and marketing claims. Record which version was live for each production period.
Monitor broken destinations and unexpected redirects. The digital experience is part of the pack’s information system and should be controlled like other customer-facing content.
Information to prepare
- Confirm the correct GS1 identifier
- Define fixed and variable data elements
- Choose and govern the resolver or redirect service
- Approve resource destinations and retention periods
- Test code printing on the real pack
- Verify quality and encoded data at line speed
- Monitor links and retain change records
Print and Apply
Variable-data label printing and automatic application for identified packs and logistics units.
Official references
Check the current source before relying on dates, thresholds or legal duties.