You’ve likely encountered barcodes on countless products. Barcodes are unique identifiers that enable product tracking and identification. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or an established brand owner, this guide aims to clarify the barcode, particularly the GS 1 US barcode, which has many benefits.

We’ll explore the basics of these identifiers, including their connection to UPC barcodes and the Universal Product Code system. You’ll learn about the GS1 standards, how to get a GS1 company prefix through GS1 registration, and the differences between QR codes and GS1 DataBar.

What is a GS1 US Barcode?

A GS1 US barcode, GS1 barcode, or GS1 code is a unique digital identifier that gives your products a standardized “fingerprint” in the supply network. It helps to make your items easy to find, buy, trace, and fulfill and is part of a common digital language used by over two million companies worldwide to fuel commerce and manage their supply chains.

Each barcode serves a specific purpose.

The most common ones include:

1. UPC-A: A 12-digit linear barcode used globally for retail products.
2. EAN-13: A 13-digit linear barcode, similar to UPC-A but more common outside North America.
3. GS1-128: A versatile barcode that can hold up to 48 characters, often used in logistics and distribution.
4. ITF-14: A 14-digit barcode used for product packaging and cases.
5. GS1 DataMatrix: A 2D barcode that can store large amounts of data in a small space.
6. GS1 QR Code: A 2D barcode that smartphones can scan for product information.

Barcodes facilitate the communication of trusted data across the supply chain and provide a foundation for consistent experiences and efficient business operations in retail stores and online marketplaces.

Getting Started with GS1 US Barcodes

To begin using GS1 US barcodes, you must obtain a GS1 Company Prefix through GS1 registration on the GS1 website. This unique number identifies your company as the owner of your barcodes and products. The prefix is available in different capacities, allowing you to barcode from 10 to 100,000 unique products.

When choosing a prefix capacity, consider your current and future needs, including product variations. You’ll need a barcode for each product variation, such as size and color. To help you decide, use the barcode estimator tool provided by GS1 US.

Once you have your prefix, you can create GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), which will serve as unique product identifiers; you can use GS1 US Data Hub to generate barcodes and manage your product data efficiently.

Understanding GTIN and UPC

A GTIN is a unique number that identifies your product globally. At the same time, a UPC is a type of barcode commonly used in North America for retail barcodes. Together, they form a complete barcode system within the GS1 system.

GTINs can be 8, 12, 13, or 14 digits long, with the 12-digit GTIN-12 being synonymous with UPC. The UPC barcode on products visually represents the GTIN-12 in a machine-readable format. It consists of black lines that scanners can read, with the GTIN number displayed beneath.

Many retailers require UPCs on products, making them a necessity for market entry and logistical management. The GTIN Management Rules provide guidelines for assigning and maintaining identifiers.

Implementing GS1 US Barcodes in Your Business

To apply barcodes in your business, focus on key areas. Start using GS1 standards to identify, capture, and share data accurately to help you improve inventory management and speed up fulfillment.

Use the UPC-A format for retail products and GS1-128 for logistics. Place barcodes consistently on product packaging, ideally in the lower-right quadrant of the back, 8-102 mm from any edge. Print a high-quality image of your barcode for accurate scanning.

Implementing GS 1 US barcodes is the first step for anyone getting started. It’s essential to review and update your product information and specifications regularly. Regular audits will keep your business running smoothly across all platforms and systems. Regular audits allow you to catch any discrepancies or errors and take corrective measures. 

About AccuGraphiX

As a GS1 US Solution Partner, AccuGraphiX has been trusted since 2004 to provide businesses with accurate and efficient barcode solutions. Our commitment to staying up-to-date with GS1 Standards ensures that we deliver only the best solutions to our clients.

Contact our customer service team for more information or to get started with your barcode labels today

We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact Information:

AccuGraphiX
https://bar-code.com/

Phone: (714) 634-9000

Email: [email protected]