Barcode Registration

What is a Barcode?

A barcode is a unique machine-readable code consisting of bars and numbers that identifies a product. In India, GS1 standard barcodes are issued by GS1 India and are accepted across the globe.

• Issuing Authority: GS1 India (the only authorised GS1 body in India)
• Most Common Type: EAN-13 — a 13-digit barcode used on retail products
• Global Recognition: GS1 barcodes are recognised in over 100 countries
• Unique Identity: Each product variant gets a unique barcode number (GTIN)
• Purpose: Fast billing, accurate inventory and seamless supply-chain tracking

Types of Barcodes

• EAN-13: The standard 13-digit barcode used on most retail products worldwide
• EAN-8: A shorter 8-digit barcode used on small products with limited space
• UPC: Universal Product Code, mainly used in the USA and Canada
• ITF-14: Used on outer cartons and shipping/warehouse packaging
• Code 128: Used in logistics and supply-chain applications
• QR Code: A 2D barcode that can store more data, used for marketing and payments

Note: The right barcode type depends on your product and sales channel. To choose the correct type, connect with our executive.

Why is Barcode Registration Important?

• Retail Requirement: Mandatory for selling in supermarkets and organised retail chains
• E-Commerce: Required for listing products on Amazon, Flipkart and other platforms
• Fast Billing: Speeds up checkout and reduces manual entry errors
• Inventory Management: Enables accurate stock tracking and reordering
• Unique Identity: Gives each product a globally unique identification number
• Brand Image: Adds professionalism and credibility to your products
• Supply Chain Efficiency: Streamlines warehousing, distribution and logistics
• Global Trade: Facilitates exports and acceptance in international markets

Who Needs Barcode Registration?

• Manufacturers of FMCG, food, cosmetics and consumer products
• Traders and distributors supplying to retail chains
• E-commerce sellers listing products on Amazon, Flipkart, etc.
• Retailers and supermarkets managing large inventories
• Pharmaceutical and healthcare product companies
• Apparel, footwear and lifestyle brands
• Exporters needing globally recognised product identification
• Any business that sells packaged products at scale

Documents Required for Barcode Registration

• PAN Card of the business / proprietor
• GST Registration Certificate
• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / Registration proof (as applicable)
• Cancelled cheque or bank statement of the business account
• Audited financial statement / balance sheet (for turnover-based fee category)
• Letter requesting barcode allotment on the company's letterhead
• Copy of the GS1 application form duly filled and signed
• Address proof of the business

Our Barcode Registration Process

1. Consultation: Understand your products, quantity of barcodes needed and sales channels
2. Document Collection: Gather PAN, GST, financials and business proofs
3. Application Filing: Fill and submit the GS1 India barcode application
4. Category Selection: Choose the subscription/fee category based on turnover and number of barcodes
5. Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed GS1 registration fee
6. Verification: GS1 India verifies the application and documents
7. Allotment: A unique company prefix and barcode numbers (GTINs) are allotted
8. Barcode Generation: Barcode images are generated for printing on product packaging

Benefits of Barcode Registration

• Retail & E-Commerce Access: Sell through major retailers and online platforms
• Error-Free Billing: Eliminates manual price entry mistakes
• Efficient Inventory: Real-time stock tracking and management
• Global Acceptance: GS1 barcodes are recognised worldwide
• Professional Branding: Enhances the look and credibility of your products
• Faster Operations: Speeds up checkout, dispatch and supply chain
• Data Accuracy: Improves accuracy across sales, stock and accounting

How Barcodes Are Used on Products

• Product Packaging: Print the barcode on the product label or packaging
• One per Variant: Each product variant (size, flavour, colour) gets a unique barcode
• Outer Cartons: Use ITF-14 barcodes on shipping cartons and cases
• Scanning: Barcodes are scanned at billing counters and warehouses
• Quality: Ensure correct size, contrast and placement for reliable scanning

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who issues barcodes in India?

GS1 India is the sole authorised organisation to issue globally recognised GS1 barcodes in India. For your requirement, connect with our executive.

Q2. What type of barcode do retail products use?

Most retail products use the EAN-13 barcode — a 13-digit code recognised across the world.

Q3. Do I need a separate barcode for each product?

Yes. Each unique product variant (different size, flavour, colour or pack) requires its own unique barcode number.

Q4. Is barcode registration mandatory?

It is not a legal licence, but it is practically essential for selling in retail chains and on e-commerce platforms, which require valid barcodes.

Q5. How many barcodes will I get?

The number of barcodes depends on the subscription category you choose. We help you select the right category based on your needs.

Q6. Are GS1 barcodes valid internationally?

Yes. GS1 barcodes are recognised in over 100 countries, making them ideal for both domestic and export sales.

Q7. How long does barcode registration take?

With complete documents, barcodes are generally allotted within a few working days. For more details, connect with our executive.

Ready to Get Your Barcode Registration?

Contact us today for fast and hassle-free barcode registration for your products!