International · Validation
New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) validator.
An NZBN is a 13-digit GS1 Global Location Number. This tool checks the length and recomputes the GS1 modulo 10 check digit. It does not look the number up in the NZBN Register.
How it works: weight the first twelve digits alternately 1 and 3, add them, and take the amount needed to reach the next multiple of ten. That must equal the thirteenth digit.
Inputs
Result
Enter a number and press Check.
How the NZBN check digit works
The NZBN site explains that each NZBN is a Global Location Number (GLN) supplied by GS1 New Zealand, and the NZBN is a 13-digit identifier. GS1 defines the modulo 10 check digit for its identification keys, and its manual method is: multiply the digits by alternating weights of 1 and 3 (the digit next to the check digit takes 3), add the products, and subtract the sum from the nearest equal or higher multiple of ten.
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | Weight digits 1 to 12 alternately 1, 3, 1, 3 … from the left |
| 2 | Add the products |
| 3 | Subtract the sum from the next multiple of ten; the result is the check digit |
GS1's own example, 629104150021, has a sum of 57, so the check digit is 60 − 57 = 3.
About the 94 prefix
NZBNs issued through GS1 New Zealand use GS1 New Zealand company prefixes, which begin 94. This tool shows whether your number starts with 94 but decides validity on length and check digit only.
Format check, not a register lookup
Nothing here contacts the NZBN Register. A matching check digit does not show that the number was issued. Use the NZBN Register to confirm a business.
Sources
- NZBN: each NZBN is a Global Location Number (GLN) supplied by GS1 New Zealand
- GS1: How to calculate a check digit manually
- GS1 New Zealand: company prefixes (begin 94)
Retrieved October 2026. Rules can change; check the issuing authority if a result matters.
FAQ
How many digits is an NZBN?
Thirteen. Each NZBN is a Global Location Number, supplied by GS1 New Zealand.
Why do NZBNs start with 94?
GS1 New Zealand company prefixes begin 94, and an NZBN is built on one of those prefixes. This tool reports whether the number starts with 94 but does not require it.
How is the NZBN check digit calculated?
It is the GS1 modulo 10 check digit: weights alternate 1 and 3 across the first twelve digits, and the check digit brings the total up to the next multiple of ten.
Can this tool show the business name?
No. It never contacts the NZBN Register. To see who holds an NZBN, search the official register.
Check digit only, not a register lookup
This tool tests the structure and check digit of the number in your browser. It does not query any register, and a passing result does not show the number was issued or is still active. To confirm that, search the NZBN Register. Nothing you type is transmitted, stored or logged.