What is a GVL label code?

The label code is issued by GVL (Society for the Exploitation of Neighboring Rights). It identifies the label or rights holder behind a music release. The GVL label code serves the following purposes:

• Unique assignment of sound carriers and their rights holders.
• Settlement of royalties for artists, producers and labels.
   

Example of a label code:

• LC 12345 - a label code that identifies a specific record company or music label.

In contrast to the EAN/GTIN, the label code is not about the individual product, but about the label behind it.

Distribution codes: What are EAN and GTIN?

The distribution code is a unique product number that is assigned to each individual music product. In the music sector, the distribution code usually corresponds to an EAN (European Article Number) or GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). EAN or GTIN serve the following purposes:

• Unique identification of your product in stores and on online platforms.
• Prerequisite for listing on streaming platforms, online stores or in physical stores.
• Billing of sales and royalties.

Example for EAN/GTIN:

• 4006381333931 - a 13-digit number that uniquely identifies a specific music product such as a CD or vinyl.

In short, the distribution code ensures that every product is uniquely recognized - from the physical CD to the digital release.

Label code vs. distribution code: The most important differences

Why do I need both codes?

• Label code (GVL): Without it, no GVL royalties will flow to you and your label, as the rights holders cannot be clearly identified.
• Distribution code (EAN/GTIN): Without it, you cannot list your music professionally in online stores, streaming platforms or in stores. Each product variant requires its own number.

With both codes, you ensure that your music is correctly recorded, sold and billed - whether digitally or physically.

How do I apply for a label code and distribution code?

Label code (GVL):

• Apply for your label code via GVL if you don't already have one
• Every sound carrier and every digital release that you publish via FEIYR can be assigned to the label code so that the royalties are billed correctly
   

Distribution code (EAN/GTIN) via FEIYR:

• When uploading your release, you can either enter an existing EAN or have a new one generated automatically
• Each product variant (CD, vinyl, special edition) has its own EAN

Use label code and distribution code correctly: When do I enter which code?

With FEIYR, managing the distribution code and label code is simple and clear:

• Sales code field: Optionally enter your own EAN/GTIN here if you already have one. If you leave the field empty, FEIYR automatically generates a valid GTIN for your product
• Label code field: Here you can enter your GVL label code (LC + 5 or 6 digits), if available. Although this field is optional, it is crucial for the correct billing of ancillary copyrights

Important note:
Never mix up the codes! The EAN/GTIN belongs in the distribution code field, the GVL label code in the label code field. This is the only way to record your release correctly and ensure that the rights are billed correctly.

Conclusion

The difference between the distribution code (EAN/GTIN) and the label code (GVL) is clear: the EAN/GTIN identifies each individual product, while the label code assigns the product to a label or rights holder. Both codes are essential for publishing your music professionally, making it visible in stores and billing it correctly. If you want to distribute music successfully, you should understand and use both systems.