How to Register a Barcode: Step-by-Step Guide for Small Businesses

Earnlogic Global LLP, based in Bangalore and Coimbatore, offers end-to-end business services—from company incorporation, trademarks, patents, ISO/FSSAI certifications, GST, to barcode registration—at transparent, affordable rates

A small business owner preparing to bring a product to market, one of the essential steps is registering a barcode. While barcode registration in coimbatore seem like a technical detail, they play a critical role in product identification, inventory management, and retail compatibility. From getting your product into physical stores to selling online through platforms like Amazon or Wal-Mart, a valid barcode is a must-have.

What Is a Barcode and Why Does It Matter?

It allows businesses, retailers, and logistics systems to identify and track products easily through scanning devices. Each barcode is tied to a product’s information—such as name, price, size, and manufacturer.

Barcodes are vital for:

• Inventory control
• Retail point-of-sale systems
• Shipping and logistics
• Product listing on e-commerce sites

Choose the Right Type of Barcode

There are different types of barcode, and selecting the correct one depends on where you plan to sell your products. The two most common formats are:

• UPC (Universal Product Code): Mostly used in the United States and Canada.
• EAN (European Article Number): More commonly used in Europe and internationally.

Both UPC and EAN formats are widely accepted globally, but if you're targeting specific regions, it's best to use the standard they recognize.

Register with GS1 to Get a Company Prefix

The most trusted and recognized way to obtain official barcodes is through GS1, a global organization that develops barcode standards. GS1 issues a Company Prefix, a unique number that becomes the foundation of your barcodes. This prefix identifies your business as the official manufacturer or brand owner.

To get started:

• Visit your country’s GS1 website
• Choose the number of products you plan to assign barcodes to—this helps determine

Assign GTINs to Your Products

Each product variation (such as size, color, or flavor) requires a unique barcode. This is where GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers) come into play. A GTIN is a numerical code derived from your Company Prefix, combined with a product reference number and a check digit.

You can assign GTINs using GS1's online tools or create them manually if you're familiar with the format. Be sure to:

• Keep a record of each product-GTIN combination for future reference
• Double-check the check digit to ensure accuracy

Properly managing GTINs helps avoid duplication and keeps your product data organized.

Create the Barcode Image

Now that you have GTINs for your products, the next step is generating barcode images that can be printed on your packaging. You can use:

• Barcode generation software
• Online barcode registration in chennai generators
• GS1’s Data Hub tools

Make sure the barcode is generated in the correct format (usually UPC-A or EAN-13) and follows standard size and spacing guidelines.

Best practices:

• Use high-resolution images for print quality
• Place the barcode where it’s easy to scan (typically the bottom or back of packaging)

A poorly printed barcode can lead to scanning issues and delays at checkout or during shipping.

Register and Maintain Your Barcode Data

Owning a barcode isn’t enough—you should also register your barcode data with GS1’s global database. This ensures that when retailers or partners scan your barcode, they can verify that it’s authentic and linked to your company.

GS1’s GEPIR (Global Electronic Party Information Registry) lets retailers and marketplaces validate your product information.

ongoing barcode maintenance tips:

• Update your records when you change packaging or product information

Keeping your barcode system up to date helps prevent errors, duplication, and compliance issues with retailers.

Final Thoughts

Registering a barcode registration may seem like a small step in your business journey, but it's one with significant long-term impact. From inventory tracking to expanding into major marketplaces, a valid barcode gives your product a professional presence and global reach