GS1 Image Submission Checklist: What to Know Before You Upload

Submitting product images to GS1 or GDSN datapools can be daunting—especially if your images are rejected for not meeting technical specifications.

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you ensure every product image is compliant, consistent, and ready for successful submission.

Why This Matters

GS1-compliant images aren’t just about aesthetics. They help:

• Retailers list your product correctly

• Avoid costly rejections and delays

• Maintain a consistent brand presence across platforms

Following this checklist will give your images the best chance of being accepted on the first try.

✅ 1. Use the Correct Angles

GS1 requires specific views:

• Front view (primary display panel)

• Top view

• Side view (typically right side)

Each image must be centered and shot/rendered at a straight-on perspective.

✅ 2. Check Your Background

The image background must be pure white (RGB 255/255/255). No gradients, shadows, or reflections.

✅ 3. Confirm DPI and Resolution

Your image should be at least 300 DPI and high enough resolution to maintain quality on zoom. Low-res images are one of the most common reasons for rejection.

✅ 4. Ensure Accurate Margins and Cropping

There should be equal spacing on all sides of the product. Images should not be tightly cropped, and the product must be fully visible without distortion.

✅ 5. Match File Naming Requirements

GS1 has a standardized naming system based on:

• GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

• Angle code (e.g., FRONT, TOP, SIDE)

Example: 0123456789012_FRONT.jpg

✅ 6. Use the Right Format

JPEG (.jpg or .jpeg) is the preferred file type. Avoid PNG, TIFF, or other formats unless otherwise specified.

✅ 7. Double-Check for Consistency Across SKUs

If you’re submitting multiple SKUs (sizes, flavors, regions), ensure visual consistency:

• Same lighting and scale

• Same image angles and spacing

• Uniform background

✅ 8. Keep a Version History

If you make updates, keep track of version changes for internal records. Tools like Packely help you manage revisions with built-in version tracking.

✅ 9. Get Internal Sign-Off Before Submitting

Have your marketing, compliance, or packaging team review the final images. Use a platform that supports comments and feedback to streamline this process.

✅ 10. Submit with Confidence

Once everything checks out, submit your images through your GS1 datapool or MDM system. (Soon, Packely will offer direct integration for this step.)

Pro Tip: Don’t rely on manual checks alone. With Packely, GS1-compliant image specs are built into the rendering workflow, making it easy to get it right the first time.

Try your first 3D render free and see how simple GS1 image compliance can be.