Let’s start with the very basic. We all understand what products are, right? Anything that can be offered to customers/businesses to satisfy need/demand is a product. It’s that simple.
From stationery items to your ID cards and documents, everything is a product.
Now that we have understood the meaning of product, let’s dig a bit deeper. We are aware that each product we buy from marketplaces goes through a proper checkout procedure. The cashier scans the product at the counter to determine its price. But have you ever noticed how the cashier does it?
The thing that gets scanned is a barcode. A barcode is important for every product. A product’s barcode is inseparable from it – it works like its identity. Humans have an Aadhar card as their identity, and products have a barcode. In this blog, we will learn how to create a barcode for a product and, most importantly, how to obtain GS1-certified barcodes.
What are GS1 Certified Barcodes?
The moment sellers step into the world of product retail, they’re told to “get GS1 certified barcodes”. Why GS1? GS1 is an industry standard, used and applied across the global supply chains.
Every country has its own GS1 Member Organisation, which helps in the implementation of this standard. For example, India has GS1 India, which helps businesses on how to create barcodes for their products. Currently, around 150+ countries are affiliated with GS1.
Their global acceptance and ability to facilitate faster supply chain processes have led to their certification. EAN and UPC are the most widely used types of barcodes globally.
Why You Need a GS1 Certified Barcode?
A GS1-certified barcode is more than just a label—it’s a smart step for your business. These barcodes adhere to global standards, enabling you to sell your products in stores and online, both locally and internationally.
GS1 barcodes help you manage your inventory better. They allow for quick scanning, accurate tracking, and smooth communication between systems. This means fewer errors, better stock control, and faster operations.
Most importantly, a GS1-certified barcode builds trust. It shows customers and partners that your product is genuine and professionally managed. In a world where brand credibility matters, using the right barcode can make a big difference.
How to Create a Barcode for a Product (Step-by-Step Guide)
Creating a barcode the right way is essential for selling products across retail stores, online marketplaces, and international markets. In India, GS1 India is the official body responsible for issuing GS1 barcodes. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for Indian businesses:
Step 1: Obtain a GS1 Company Prefix from GS1 India
The first step is to register with GS1 India. Once registered, you’ll receive a GS1 Company Prefix – a unique number that identifies your business in the barcode. This prefix forms the base of all your product barcodes.
Step 2: Assign Unique Product Numbers (GTINs)
After registration, you need to assign a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) to each product. Each variant (like size or colour) must have its own GTIN. This ensures accurate product identification across supply chains and marketplaces.
Step 3: Choose the Right Barcode Type
Depending on your product and where it’s sold, choose a suitable barcode type:
- EAN: Standard for retail products in India
- UPC: Used mainly for exports
- GS1-128: Used for outer cartons and bulk logistics
- QR Code: For marketing and more detailed information
Step 4: Generate the Barcode Using DataKart
GS1 India provides access to DataKart – a platform where you can manage product data and generate barcode images for printing. DataKart ensures the barcode images meet global quality standards. Free and easy to use for registered members, it also helps in updating product listings on various online platforms.
Step 5: Print and Apply the Barcode Correctly
Print barcodes with high resolution to ensure they’re easily scannable. Follow GS1 guidelines for size, clarity, and placement. Typically, barcodes are placed on flat surfaces away from folds or seams. Testing barcode readability before applying it to all packaging is a best practice.
Using GS1 barcodes in India ensures compliance, improves supply chain efficiency, and is often required by large retailers and e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
Conclusion
Creating the right barcode is the first step to taking your product to market. GS1-certified barcodes ensure global compliance, better inventory management, and credibility with retailers and customers.
For Indian sellers, registering with GS1 India and using DataKart makes the process simple and reliable.
Whether you’re selling online or in stores, a GS1 barcode is your product’s identity—and its ticket to trusted markets.
