Whether you sell beauty products, toys, or something else entirely, your business likely relies on GS1 UPC barcodes. These barcodes may seem simple, but they empower businesses worldwide to manage inventory, transactions, and logistics more efficiently. In fact, they are crucial for businesses, whether retail, e-commerce, or logistics.
So what’s the deal with this little barcode? Read on to learn everything you need to know about the GS1 UPC barcode, including its format, how to assign numbers, and more.
What Are GS1 UPC Barcodes?
GS1 UPC barcodes are standardized barcodes that are used globally for product identification and tracking. They are issued by GS1, a nonprofit organization that sets global standards for supply chains.
Each product has a unique identifier so that no two products share the same number. Most retailers require GS1-issued UPCs to list and sell products in stores and online. GS1 UPC barcodes work universally in different systems worldwide, from grocery stores to warehouses.
GS1 UPC barcodes are made up of these components:
- Company prefix: A number assigned by GS1 to your business.
- Product number: A number assigned by your organization to each specific product.
- Check digit: A number that ensures the barcode is valid.
In total, these barcodes are made up of 12 digits.
What Is a Company Prefix?
A company prefix is a unique number that is assigned by GS1 to a business when they register for barcodes. It forms the foundation of all GS1 identifiers, including UPC barcodes, GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), and other tracking codes used in supply chains. The company prefix is typically made up of 6 to 9 digits. It identifies the GS1 UPC barcode as belonging to your company.
How to Assign Product Numbers
Once you have a GS1 company prefix, you’ll need to assign a product number to each unique product that you sell. When purchasing your company prefix, you have the option to choose different capacities, from 10 up to 100,000 unique barcodes. Assigning 10 product numbers is simple, but if you have thousands of products, you might be wondering how best to assign product numbers.
According to GS1, the best way to do this is to utilize serial numbers. If your company prefix is 6 digits, the product number will be 5 digits (the check digit makes up the 12th digit). Your first product number would be 00001, then 00002, 00003, and so on. Make sure you keep a record of each to avoid duplicate numbers. If you have different sizes, colors, or variations, each one will need its own unique product number. Once you have both the company prefix and the product number, you can use GS1’s check digit calculator to generate the check digit. From there, you can generate a barcode image and print it on your products or labels.
When to Use GS1 UPC Barcodes
GS1 UPC barcodes are essential for businesses from a variety of industries. You should use them when:
- Selling in retail stores: Most major retailers, like Walmart and Target, for example, require GS1-registered UPC barcodes for inventory tracking and checkout scanning.
- Listing products on e-commerce platforms: Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart Marketplace require these barcodes for product authentication.
- Managing inventory: UPC barcodes help with warehouse management, inventory tracking, and automated reordering.
- Protecting your brand: Some retailers verify UPC ownership through GS1 databases. If you use third-party or fake barcodes, your listing may get removed. A GS1 UPC barcode ensures that your brand is correctly identified across the supply chain.
- Expanding to global markets: GS1 UPCs are internationally recognized, which makes them ideal for businesses that are expanding beyond the US. They are compatible with GS1 GTINs and EAN barcodes.
How to Use GS1 Barcodes
Now that you have your GS1 UPC barcodes, it’s time to put them to use for your retail, e-commerce, and inventory management. Here are the steps you can take to properly use these barcodes:
- Generate the barcode image: With your UPC number, you can use a GS1-approved barcode generator to create a scannable barcode. Make sure the printed barcode meets the size and format requirements for packaging.
- Print the barcode: Place the barcode on a flat, visible area of the package. Maintain proper size, contrast, and quiet zones. Most organizations use black bars with white spaces, but there are a few other color options that are scannable.
- Share your UPC with retailers: Provide your UPC when listing products on Amazon, Walmart, eBay, Target, etc. Some platforms verify barcodes through GS1’s Global Database.
- Use barcodes for inventory and supply chain management: Scan barcodes to track stock levels, automate reordering, and manage shipments. Integrate UPCs into POS systems for accurate pricing and sales data.
- Maintain your UPCs: Each product variation needs a unique UPC. Keep a record of assigned GS1 UPC barcodes to avoid duplication.
Are There Location Requirements and Sizing Requirements?
Yes, there are location and sizing requirements for GS1 UPC barcodes. These requirements ensure that barcodes can be accurately scanned. When you purchase your company prefix, you’ll be sent the specific information from GS1. In general, the barcode needs to be on a flat, visible surface that avoids seams and wrinkles. Keep the barcode in a standardized location across all products for easy scanning, typically the lower, right-hand corner on the back side of the packaging. For bottles and cylindrical items, place the barcode vertically so that the curved surface doesn’t cause scanning issues.
The standard size for GS1 UPC barcodes is 1.46” x 1.020”. This is considered 100% magnification. Sizing can vary, but the aspect ratio must be maintained so the barcode still works. The minimum size, which is 80% of standard size, is 1.1875” x .813”, while the maximum size (200%) is 2.938” x 2.04”. In addition to the barcode, you’ll also need to include a minimum quiet zone of .125” on each size.
Do Different Industries Have Different Requirements?
While most GS1 UPC barcodes follow the same set of standards, some industries may have different requirements. For example, Utah, Texas, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, New York, and Washington require more information for CBD product barcoding. It’s important to research the specific requirements for your industry to comply with local laws.
GS1 UPC Barcodes Guide Conclusion
GS1 UPC barcodes are essential for businesses today. They provide a reliable way to track inventory and meet retailer requirements. But if your UPC labels fade or peel off, you lose the benefit.
That’s why you need custom labels from Coast Label. Our custom GS1 UPC barcode labels are made to endure the toughest conditions–from extreme temperatures during shipping to chemicals, abrasion, and more. Contact us today for a proposal!
