What is a GLN and when should I use it?

A Global Location Number (GLN) is a 13-digit identifier issued by GS1 that uniquely identifies a legal entity, a function within an entity, or a physical location such as a warehouse or accounting department.

On the Peppol network, GLNs use the scheme code 0088. A Peppol address based on a GLN looks like 0088:1234567890123.

When to use a GLN

• Multiple delivery or billing points — When a company has several locations (e.g. warehouses, branch offices) that each need to receive documents independently, each location can be registered with its own GLN.
• Internal routing — Large organizations use GLNs to route incoming invoices or orders to the right department automatically.
• Trading partners require it — Retail, logistics, and healthcare sectors commonly use GLNs as their primary Peppol identifier. If a recipient is registered under 0088 rather than a national scheme like 0208, you must address them with their GLN.

How it relates to other schemes

Belgian companies are typically registered with scheme 0208 (enterprise number), but some are registered under 0088 (GLN) instead — or under both. If you cannot find a recipient using 0208, try verifying them with 0088 and their GLN. See What is the correct format for a Peppol address? for more details on schemes.