Registering your ad produces an Ad-ID code with metadata consisting of the details associated with your ad.
This code consists of 11 characters (for all media except High Definition or 3D video). High Definition (HD) and 3D video creative must include a 12th character, either an H for HD or D for 3D to be valid.
Prefix: The first 4 characters of the Ad-ID code is called a Prefix. This is the Advertiser identifier. A Prefix can consist of any combination of letters or numbers but cannot start with the number zero.
Many Advertisers already have at least one Prefix or in some cases have the rights for certain alphanumeric prefix combinations, therefore not all requested combinations are available.
Before access to existing prefixes can be granted or new prefixes can be added to an Account you need to provide permission in writing from the Advertiser to register the creative on their behalf. The Client Success Team can check the Ad-ID database to confirm if Prefixes already exist for your Advertiser client. With permission from the Advertiser, access can be provided for those that apply.
If the Advertiser is new to Ad-ID, the Client Success Team can check if the requested 4-character identifier is available and suggest alternatives if the preferred Prefix is not.
Code format: The 7 characters following the Prefix make up the heart of the code. 5 code formats are available to help you track your ad assets.
The most commonly used format is called the 4 Digit code, which refers to 4 numeric characters that follow the Prefix. Ad-IDs using this format are created in sequential order and the count is contained in this part of the code. The count will continue in the Overflow area if the limit is reached in the 4 Digit section.
Two Year tracking options are available using the 4 Digit code area: The current year is tracked with the last number of the year in the first or 4th position after the Prefix. The count is maintained in the 3 Digit area.
The Custom 4 format requires a User defined 4-character section following the prefix. Instructions must be included when the prefix is set up. Once entered the 4 characters cannot be edited. The count will be maintained in the Overflow area in order to prevent any duplicate codes.
The Custom 7 format allows for the most flexibility, however, must be manually maintained by you. The 7 characters following the Prefix can consist of any combination of letters or numbers. The special instructions for this custom code format must be included setting up the Prefix. You will get an error if you have created a duplicate code. You can also edit the code in your Custom 7 entries if you have an error.
Definition: The 12th character is only used for HD and 3D videos.