Genuine Barcodes Authentication – Know All About Types, Benefits & Process

Genuine Barcode authentication is a critical process in ensuring product authenticity and combating counterfeit goods. This system involves the use of unique, machine-readable barcodes assigned to products, enabling businesses and consumers to verify the origin and legitimacy of items. This ensures enhanced supply chain transparency, improved customer trust, and reduced losses from fake products. The growing reliance on barcodes in retail, manufacturing, and distribution underscores the importance of robust authentication methods. This guide delves into the current practices, challenges, and emerging trends in barcode authentication, highlighting its increasing relevance in a globally connected market.

 

Introduction of Genuine Barcode Authentication

Barcodes have revolutionized the way businesses track and manage products. As a cornerstone of modern inventory systems, they provide a quick, reliable, and cost-effective method for identifying items. In a market where authenticity and security are paramount, the role of genuine barcode authentication has become increasingly crucial. By verifying the legitimacy of barcodes, businesses can protect against counterfeit products, maintain product integrity, and enhance consumer trust.

 

Types of Barcodes and Their Authentication Methods

Overview of Common Barcodes

There are various types of barcodes in use today, each with unique characteristics. The most common types include:

  • Universal Product Codes (UPC): An essential key in retail, UPCs are numeric and uniquely identify products and their manufacturers. Essential for inventory and point-of-sale systems, they streamline sales and tracking processes.

  • European Article Numbers (EAN): Similar to UPCs in function, EANs (European Article Numbers) are more common globally, especially in Europe. They facilitate international trade and tracking by providing a standardised product identification system.

  • Quick Response (QR) Codes: Versatile and two-dimensional, QR codes store extensive data, ranging from URLs and text to other digital information. Their ability to link directly to online content makes them valuable in marketing, information sharing, and enhanced user interactivity.

Authentication Techniques

Barcode authentication techniques vary based on the type of barcode and its application. These methods include:

  • Verified by GS1

    Verified by GS1 is a comprehensive platform designed to enhance trust and efficiency in the global marketplace by providing a reliable way to search, look up, and verify information about products, companies, and locations. It enables users to verify the authenticity of barcode numbers (GTIN, UPC, EAN), Global Location Numbers (GLN), and other GS1 keys, ensuring accurate product, company, and location information. This system supports supply chain visibility, enhances the buying experience, and drives consumer trust by verifying company identities and promoting transparency. Retailers ensure authenticity by checking data with central databases. By ensuring accurate and trusted IDs, Verified by GS1 plays a crucial role in increasing trust across the global business ecosystem.

  • Smart Consumer App

    The Smart Consumer mobile app offers a platform for brands to directly engage with consumers, providing a wealth of digital product information at their fingertips. Powered by DataKart, India’s national product data repository, the app ensures users have access to accurate, updated, and complete details about products, including availability, discounts, coupons, and reviews. It serves as an essential tool for consumers to make informed decisions, enhancing their shopping experience. For brand owners, it’s an invaluable resource for promoting products effectively, demonstrated by its impressive statistics of over 39 million products on the app and over 16 million total scans. The Smart Consumer app is a testament to the power of digital empowerment in the consumer goods sector.

  • Barcodes From Authorised Sources

    Barcodes should be bought from an authorized source only. GS1 India is the only authorized source in India. Authorized source is crucial for ensuring the authenticity and traceability of products across various industries. GS1 India provides unique identification codes that help in accurately tracking goods through supply chains, enhancing efficiency and reducing the risk of counterfeit products. Obtaining barcodes from GS1 India not only facilitates global recognition and compatibility across retail and online platforms but also supports compliance with international standards and regulatory guidelines. This authoritative sourcing of barcodes is essential for businesses aiming to establish trust with consumers, streamline operations, and foster transparency. By leveraging GS1 India’s barcodes, companies can significantly improve inventory management, customer satisfaction, and overall business integrity.

 

Benefits and Challenges in Barcode Authentication

Benefits

  • Enhanced Product Security: Barcode authentication plays an important role in guaranteeing that only authentic products reach consumers. This process significantly ensures only authentic items enter the market, thereby ensuring the safety and reliability of products.

  • Counterfeit Prevention: By validating the authenticity of products through barcode authentication, businesses effectively deter the distribution and sale of counterfeit goods. This is crucial in maintaining brand integrity and consumer trust, as it protects the brand’s reputation from the negative impacts of fake products.

Challenges

  • Potential Issues and Risks: Despite its advantages, barcode authentication faces challenges like technological breaches and advanced counterfeiting methods. These risks necessitate continuous advancement in authentication technologies to stay ahead of counterfeiters.

  • Balancing Security and User Accessibility: A significant challenge is to implement robust security measures without overcomplicating the user experience. It’s essential to maintain a balance where security protocols are stringent enough to deter fraud yet user-friendly to ensure smooth and efficient operations for both businesses and consumers.

 

Implementing Barcode Authentication Systems

Choosing the Right System

Selecting the ideal barcode authentication system requires careful consideration of several factors. For businesses that need a barcode system, the nature of the product plays a critical role; perishable goods, for instance, may demand different features compared to electronics. Market requirements, such as compliance with regional regulations and industry standards, are also important to be considered. Furthermore, the level of security needed varies; high-value items might need more sophisticated authentication methods. It’s about finding a system that aligns with the specific demands of the product and market, ensuring both security and operational efficiency.

Numerous businesses have adeptly incorporated barcode authentication into their systems, demonstrating its effectiveness. From enhancing product traceability to bolstering anti-counterfeiting measures, the applications provide valuable insights into the benefits of barcode authentication systems in various sectors.

Step-by-Step Guide

  • Setting Up Authentication Protocols: A critical initial step involves establishing clear, comprehensive authentication protocols. This includes defining how barcodes are generated and verified. Ensuring these protocols align with industry standards and specific business needs is essential for effective implementation.

  • Training Personnel: Equally important is thoroughly training the staff on these protocols. Adequate training empowers employees to effectively use and manage the barcode authentication system. This encompasses understanding how to scan, verify authenticity, and troubleshoot common issues, ensuring smooth daily operations.

 

Best Practices for Barcode Authentication

Regular audits and updates are crucial for the longevity and effectiveness of barcode authentication systems. Continuous monitoring helps in promptly identifying and rectifying any vulnerabilities or inefficiencies, ensuring the system remains robust against evolving counterfeiting techniques. Additionally, aligning with industry standards, particularly getting associated with organisation like GS1 India, is essential. This collaboration guarantees that barcode systems are globally compatible and efficient, facilitating seamless international trade and compliance with universal best practices in product tracking and authentication.

 

Future Trends in Barcode Authentication

The future of barcode authentication is poised for transformation with the integration of emerging technologies like blockchain and AI. Blockchain promises to add an unprecedented level of security and transparency by creating tamper-proof records of barcode data, enhancing traceability and trust. AI, with its advanced data analysis capabilities, can significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of authentication processes. Together, these technologies are expected to revolutionize barcode authentication, making it more secure, reliable, and adaptable to a range of complex market needs in the coming decade.

Conclusion

Barcode authentication is a crucial and evolving component of contemporary business practices. Recognizing its importance, understanding various methods, and adopting best practices are key steps for companies aiming to fight counterfeiting, boost product security, and build consumer confidence. Embracing these strategies not only safeguards business interests but also enhances overall market integrity. Partnering with GS1 India can provide your business with cutting-edge and authentic barcode solutions and expert guidance. Take the steps towards secure and reliable product authentication and ensure your business stays ahead in the dynamic world of modern commerce.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the significance of barcode authentication in today’s market?

Barcode authentication plays a critical role in ensuring product authenticity and combating counterfeiting in today’s market, especially when it comes to ensuring the circulation of genuine barcodes.

2. How does barcode authentication contribute to enhanced product security?

It ensures that only genuine products are distributed and sold, enhancing overall product security.

3. Can barcode authentication effectively prevent counterfeiting?

Yes, it’s a powerful tool in deterring counterfeit products and protecting brand integrity.

4. How do businesses balance security and user accessibility in barcode authentication?

By implementing user-friendly yet robust authentication methods that don’t impede operational efficiency.

5. Are there any case studies showcasing successful implementations of barcode authentication?

Many businesses across various sectors have successfully implemented barcode authentication systems, demonstrating their effectiveness.

6. How can personnel be effectively trained for the use of barcode authentication systems?

Training should focus on the practical use of the system, understanding its importance, and troubleshooting common issues.

7. What are the best practices for conducting regular audits and updates in barcode authentication?

Regular audits help in identifying vulnerabilities, and updates ensure the system remains effective against evolving threats.

8. How can businesses collaborate with industry standards for effective barcode authentication?

Aligning with standards set by organisations like GS1 india ensures interoperability and global compliance.

9. What predictions exist for the future trends of barcode authentication in the next decade?

The integration of advanced technologies like blockchain and AI is likely to revolutionise barcode authentication.

GS1 India Authenticity: Protect Your Business from Scammers and Fraudulent Barcode Sellers

Barcodes, a common sight in our daily lives, are machine-readable symbols that represent data visually. Introduced in the 1970s, barcoding has become an integral part of commercial transactions. A barcode is a series of parallel bars or lines of varying width, typically black on a white background. They are found on product packages in supermarkets, convenience stores, and other retail outlets. These barcodes, consisting of varying widths of bars and spaces, can be verified for GS1 India Authenticity. This verification process helps ensure the product you're purchasing is genuine and combats counterfeiting. They can be read with an optical barcode scanner. This data is entered into a computer system using an optical (laser) scanner. The scanner, either handheld or built into a checkout counter, reads the barcode by moving across the code or having the code moved across it. 

GS1 barcodes

The GS1 system of standards aims to raise the efficiency of business processes and to provide cost savings through automation based on globally unique identification. The GS1 barcodes system provides globally unique and unambiguous identification keys to identify goods, services, assets, locations, etc.. These keys can be represented in data carriers, such as barcodes or EPC/RFID tags, to enable automatic data capture. They may also be used in electronic communications, improving speed and accuracy when sharing master data, transactional data and visibility event data.

GS1 barcodes are designed to overcome the limitations of using company’s, organization's, or sector-specific interfaces. It enables large scale deployment, flexibility in the selection of the most suitable system components and innovation − ultimately making trade much more efficient and responsive to customers. GS1 barcodes are designed for use in any industry or trade sector, and changes to the system are introduced in a way that does not disrupt existing users.

 

Understanding the GS1 Barcode System

Overview of GS1

GS1 is a global supply chain standards organisation that develops and maintains global standards. It is linked to the issuance and maintenance of barcodes, a symbol printed on products that can be scanned electronically. GS1 barcodes are scanned more than ten billion times every day, making them one of the most widely used information systems in the world.

It has a crucial role in the standardization of barcodes as it provides a common language that ensures key processes run smoothly wherever they happen. GS1 standards bring together companies representing all stakeholders of the supply chain or regulatory authorities – manufacturers, distributors, retailers, transporters, customs , software developers, and more. GS1 standards are designed to improve the efficiency, safety, and visibility of supply chains across physical and digital channels in various sectors. They form a business language that identifies, captures, and shares key information about products, locations, assets, and more.

GS1 role in Standardizing Barcodes

The role of GS1 in standardizing barcodes involves several aspects. GS1 develops standards based on industry global best practices. These standards provide a framework that allows products, services, and information to move efficiently and securely, providing visibility and traceability for businesses and their customers.

GS1 assigns unique identification numbers to companies for use in their barcodes. These numbers are globally unique and ensure that every product can be identified in the supply chain. They promote the use of its standards and barcodes across industries. It also provides training and resources to help businesses implement and use these standards effectively. They also plays a role in ensuring that companies comply with its standards. It provides tools and guidelines to help businesses meet these standards and maintains a database of companies that are in compliance.

GS1 plays a pivotal role in standardizing barcodes, ensuring that they can be used effectively and consistently across different industries and countries. This standardization is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and integrity of global supply chains.

Explanation of GS1 Barcode Structure and Encoding

GS1 barcodes are structured to contain a series of digits that are encoded in a sequence of bars and spaces. Each digit from 0 to 9 is represented by a unique pattern of bars and spaces. The structure of a GS1 barcode includes a GS1 Company Prefix, an Item Reference, and a Check Digit. The GS1 Company Prefix is assigned by GS1 to a company, allowing it to identify its products globally. The Item Reference is assigned by the company to each of its products. The Check Digit is a calculated one-digit number used to ensure data integrity. To read the barcode, the scanner decodes the pattern of bars and spaces to extract the digits and interpret the information.

 

Importance of GS1 India Authenticity in Barcodes

How GS1 India Authenticity Ensures Global Uniqueness

Authenticity is a key feature of GS1 barcodes as it ensures the global uniqueness of each barcode. This is achieved through the GS1 Company Prefix, which is a unique identifier assigned to each company by GS1. This prefix, when combined with the Item Reference and Check Digit, creates a globally unique identifier for each product. This system prevents duplication of barcodes, ensuring that each barcode is authentic and traceable back to its original source.

Benefits of Using GS1 Barcodes for Businesses

GS1 standards provide unique identification for products, locations, which forms the backbone on which applications such as track and trace , product authentication, recalls are built. GS1 standards are interoperable and technology agnostic making them independent of Hardware /software platforms and technology solutions.

They facilitate efficient inventory management by enabling quick and accurate scanning of products. They also support global trade by providing a common language that businesses around the world can understand. GS1 barcodes help in reducing errors in data entry and retrieval, thereby improving operational efficiency. They also play a crucial role in fighting counterfeit products by ensuring the authenticity and traceability of products. By adopting GS1 barcodes, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and protect their brand reputation.

The use of GS1 barcodes is a proactive step towards ensuring the authenticity of products and protecting business from counterfeiters. It is critical to stay informed in order to stay protected!

Rising Concerns: Scammers and Fraudulent Barcode Companies

The Increasing Prevalence of Barcode Scams

In the digital age, the prevalence of barcode scams has seen a significant increase. Unscrupulous entities exploit the trust of businesses, selling them counterfeit barcodes that are not registered with GS1. This not only leads to serious consequences for businesses but also disrupts the integrity of global trade systems.

Common Tactics Used by Fraud Companies

Fraudulent companies often employ deceptive tactics to lure unsuspecting businesses. They offer non-authorized barcodes, claiming that these barcodes are GS1 compliant. However, these barcodes are not registered with GS1 and hence, do not provide the benefits of GS1 India authenticity.

Identifying Genuine GS1 Barcodes

Guidance on verifying GS1 India authenticity

GS1 provides tools to verify the authenticity of its barcodes. One such tool is the GS1 VBG (Verified by GS1). By entering the barcode number into this tool, businesses can check the validity of a GS1 barcode, ensuring it is not a fake.

Tips for Businesses to Ensure They Are Dealing with Legitimate GS1 Codes

To ensure they are dealing with legitimate GS1 codes, businesses should always purchase barcodes directly from GS1. Regular checks using the GS1 GEPIR tool can help verify the authenticity of the barcodes.

The Consequences of Dealing with Fraudulent Barcodes

Legal Repercussions for Businesses Using Fake Barcodes

The use of fake barcodes can lead to legal repercussions for businesses and impact brand reputation for your business. These can range from fines and penalties to lawsuits. Moreover, the use of counterfeit barcodes can damage a company’s reputation and lead to a loss of customer trust.

Impact on Supply Chain and Customer Trust

Counterfeit barcodes can have a significant impact on the supply chain. They can lead to incorrect data being captured, resulting in stock discrepancies and delivery errors. This not only disrupts the supply chain but also erodes customer trust.

 

How to Spot Scammers: Red Flags and Warning Signs

Signs That a Company May Be Selling Counterfeit Barcodes

There are several red flags that can indicate a company may be selling counterfeit barcodes. These include unusually low prices, lack of GS1 authorization, and inability to provide proof of GS1 registration.

Case Studies or Examples of Fraudulent Barcode Transactions

While specific case studies are confidential, there have been instances where businesses have faced significant losses due to the use of counterfeit barcodes. These cases underscore the importance of GS1 India authenticity.

Reporting Scams and Protecting Your Business

Steps to Take If You Suspect a Barcode Scam

If a business suspects a barcode scam, it should report the matter to GS1 India immediately. It should also cease using the suspected fake barcodes and replace them with authentic GS1 barcodes.

Advice on Safeguarding Your Business Against Fraudulent Transactions

To safeguard against fraudulent transactions, businesses should always purchase barcodes from GS1 India. Regular checks using GS1 GEPIR app or Smart Consumer app can help verify the authenticity of the barcodes.

 

Conclusion

GS1 India authenticity is crucial for the smooth functioning of global trade systems. It ensures the global uniqueness of barcodes on their products, facilitates efficient business operations, and protects against counterfeit barcodes.

Businesses should remain vigilant against barcode scams and report any suspicious activity to GS1. By staying informed and proactive, businesses can protect themselves and contribute to the fight against barcode fraud.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are barcode number unauthorized sellers?

Unauthorized sellers are those who sell products without the necessary permissions or approvals from the brand or manufacturer. They typically operate outside the official distribution channels set up by the brand and often acquire products through unauthorized means.

2. What happens if I buy barcode numbers from an unauthorized seller?

Purchasing barcode numbers from an unauthorized seller can lead to a variety of issues. These can include legal disputes, inability to sell the product due to duplicate numbers, damage to brand image and reputation, and potential difficulties in listing on e-commerce platforms.

3. Where can I get legitimate GS1 barcode numbers?

You can obtain legitimate GS1 barcode numbers from GS1 India which is a member organization of GS1 global.

4. What is the difference between GS1 issued barcodes and barcodes from 3rd party sources? Why use GS1 barcodes instead of 3rd party alternatives?

GS1 barcodes are globally recognized and used by companies worldwide. They are unique, accurate, and adhere to current global standards. In contrast, barcodes from 3rd party sources may not be globally recognized and can lead to confusion and inaccuracies.

5. What does GTIN Non-Reuse Standard mean?

The GTIN Non-Reuse Standard implies that a GTIN assigned to a trade item should not be reassigned to another trade item.

6. Why is the need for a GTIN Non-Reuse Standard?

The GTIN Non-Reuse Standard is necessary to ensure that product identifiers are permanent and unique. This supports seamless consumer experiences across various channels.

7. What does it mean to the industries?

The GTIN Non-Reuse Standard helps industries maintain unique product identification, which is crucial for maintaining operational efficiencies and ensuring smooth operations of global supply chains.

8. Does the GTIN Non-Reuse Standard apply to all levels of the packaging hierarchy?

Yes, the GTIN Non-Reuse Standard applies to all trade items in the assigned packaging hierarchy, regardless of the sector.

9. Why individual GTINs can’t be reused?

Individual GTINs can’t be reused because reuse can create confusion online where products have a permanent presence. It can result in inaccurate catalogue data, and make GTIN management unclear for brands with products in multiple sectors.

A Comprehensive Guide on How Barcodes Work

Barcodes are a fundamental and ubiquitous element in modern commerce and logistics, crucially supporting the global economy. They serve as an efficient and reliable method for storing and retrieving information, thereby revolutionizing the way we track, manage, and sell products across various industries. This guide is all about the world of barcodes, exploring their diverse types, tracing their historical development, understanding how barcodes work and wide-ranging applications.


 From retail shelves to complex supply chains, barcodes are the unsung heroes of modern technology, simplifying processes and enhancing efficiency in ways often taken for granted.


Types of Barcodes


Barcodes come in various formats, each designed for specific uses and industries. The diversity in barcode types reflects their wide applicability and the need to encode different kinds of information, from simple identification numbers to complex data. Understanding the different types of barcodes is crucial for selecting the right one for a specific application.


Here are some of the most common types of barcodes used worldwide, their unique features, and typical uses.




  • UPC-A Barcode: This is a 1D linear barcode consisting of 12 digits. It is used for a wide range of retail products like groceries, electronics, and clothing. UPC-A barcodes are globally recognised and can also be used for packaging like cases and pallets. It is primarily used in the United States and Canada.




  • EAN-13 Barcode: Similar to UPC-A, EAN-13 is a 1D linear barcode. It contains 13 digits and is commonly found on retail products. Despite its European roots, it's recognised globally.




  • GS1-128 Barcode: This barcode is used in logistics and general distribution. It differs from other linear barcodes by its ability to include additional product attributes like expiration dates, batch numbers, and weight. GS1-128 encodes GTIN or Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) and is crucial for logistic labels.




  • UPC-E Barcode: A compact version of the UPC code, UPC-E is a 1D linear barcode used globally, mainly in the retail and grocery sectors for small items like candy and cosmetics.




  • Data Matrix Barcode: This 2D barcode can encode a large amount of information in a small space. It's used primarily in the healthcare sector. The GS1 Data Matrix is particularly notable for its error correction capabilities. It is not scanned at the point of sale.




  • EAN-8 Barcode: A shorter version of the EAN-13, the EAN-8 barcode is used when packaging space is limited. It contains eight digits.




  • ITF-14 Barcode: This barcode is used on larger packaging units like cases, typically in general distribution and logistics. ITF-14 is well-suited for printing on corrugated materials and is not scanned at the point of sale.




  • QR Code: A popular 2D barcode that links to web content. QR codes can carry GS1 identifiers and data, making them useful for both consumer engagement and supply chain functions, like price lookup. GS1 Digital Link transforms these codes into web-friendly formats, enhancing consumer interaction while maintaining their supply chain utility. It is currently not scanned at the point of sale.




 


History of Barcodes


Early Developments


In the 1940s, Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver pioneered barcode technology inspired by Morse code. They patented the first barcode system in 1952, revolutionizing inventory management.


Evolution of Barcode Technology


Barcode technology evolved from simple linear patterns to complex 2D formats, driven by the need for more data storage and faster scanning. The 1970s saw the introduction of Universal Product Codes (UPC), transforming retail. Subsequent digital advancements led to the development of 2D barcodes and QR codes. GS1, an international organization, standardised barcode formats like UPC and EAN, enhancing their global use across various industries.


 


Components of a Barcode


Barcode Structure


A barcode involves a series of parallel lines and spaces that can vary in width and spacing. These variations are critical as they encode the specific information. Additionally, barcodes usually have a 'quiet zone,' which is a clear area without any marks or symbols, positioned before the first and after the last bar. This zone is essential for scanners to recognize the start and end of the barcode. Often, barcodes include a sequence of numbers below the lines and spaces, providing a human-readable form.


Barcode Encoding


Encoding in the context of barcodes refers to the method by which information (like a product number or an identifier) is translated into the barcode format. Different types of barcodes use various encoding schemes. The choice of encoding depends on the amount and type of data to be encoded, as well as the space available for the barcode.


Barcode Decoding


This is the reverse process of encoding. It's performed by barcode scanners, which read and interpret the barcode's encoded data. Scanners use light to read the barcode: Based on the amount of light reflected the information is decoded. Since the bars reflect less light than the spaces between them, the scanner can detect the pattern of light and dark regions and translate them back into the data that was originally encoded. This decoded information is then typically sent to a computer system for processing and use.


How do Barcodes Work?


Barcodes function as a visual, machine-readable representation of data, typically about the item to which they are attached.


Scanning and Reading Barcodes


The process of scanning and reading barcodes involves specialized devices known as barcode scanners. These scanners use a light source, a lens, and a light sensor to translate the optical impulses into electrical ones. The light emitted by the scanner illuminates the barcode, and the dark bars absorb light while the white spaces reflect it. This contrast creates a pattern that the scanner's sensor detects and converts into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed and decoded by the scanner's internal decoder, which interprets the barcode's data based on the specific symbology (format) of the barcode. Finally, this decoded data is sent to a computer or other system, where it can be used for a variety of purposes, such as inventory management, point-of-sale transactions, or tracking items through a supply chain.


Barcode Applications


Barcodes have a wide range of applications in various industries, including retail, healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. They are used to track inventory levels, manage supply chains, and ensure patient safety, among other things .


Advantages of Barcodes


Barcodes enhance data accuracy by reducing human error, speed up data entry processes, and are cost-effective. They also enable real-time inventory tracking, improve operational efficiency, and are versatile enough to be used in a wide range of industries.


Barcode Technologies


Barcode technology utilizes various encoding methods, such as linear or 2D formats, to represent data visually. Scanners interpret these codes, transforming them into digital information for inventory tracking, point-of-sale systems, and efficient data management across numerous industries.


1D Barcodes vs 2D Barcodes


1D barcodes, consisting of vertical lines, encode data in one dimension and are suited for simple, small data sets. In contrast, 2D barcodes or QR codes, store information in two dimensions, allowing for embedding URLs, thus much larger data capacity.


QR Codes and Data Matrix Barcodes


QR codes and Data Matrix barcodes are two-dimensional, high-density barcode formats capable of encoding large amounts of data, including text and URLs, in a small square or rectangular pattern readable by smartphones and dedicated scanners.


Emerging Barcode Technologies


The future of barcode technology includes enhancements in readability, data capacity, and integration with digital systems.


 


Industries Using Barcodes


Barcodes play a crucial role in various industries, enhancing efficiency and accuracy:


Retail and Inventory Management


In retail, barcodes simplify product tracking and inventory control. They enable quick scanning of items at checkout, facilitating faster transactions and accurate pricing. In inventory management, barcodes help in efficiently tracking stock levels, reducing errors, and improving order fulfilment processes.


Healthcare and Pharmaceutical


In healthcare, barcodes are vital for patient safety and operational efficiency. They ensure precise medication dispensing, track medical equipment, and manage patient records, significantly reducing errors in treatment and diagnosis. In pharmaceuticals, they aid in drug verification and inventory control.


Logistics and Supply Chain


Barcodes are indispensable in logistics and supply chain management. They enable the tracking of shipments from origin to destination, improve the accuracy of order fulfilment, and enhance the overall efficiency of supply chain operations. This real-time tracking ensures timely deliveries and helps in managing inventory across various locations.


Conclusion


Barcodes have become an indispensable tool in modern commerce and industry, offering a simple yet powerful method for data management and operational efficiency.


 


Frequently Asked Questions


1. What is the purpose of a barcode?


Barcodes efficiently store data in a machine-readable format, streamlining inventory management, tracking, and point-of-sale operations.


2. How are barcodes different from QR codes?


Barcodes are one-dimensional, storing data in lines; QR codes are two-dimensional, holding more information in a matrix format.


3. Are barcodes universal, or do they vary by country?


Barcodes follow universal standards but can vary in format and information content based on regional or industry requirements.


4. What information is stored in a barcode?


Barcodes typically encode data like product identification numbers, serial numbers, or inventory information, varying by the barcode type.


5. How do I choose the right type of barcode for my business?


Select based on data capacity, industry standards, and the specific tracking or inventory needs of your business.


6. What are the potential security risks associated with barcodes?


Barcodes can be duplicated or tampered with, posing risks in authenticity verification and secure data management.


7. What is the ISO standard for UPC?


The ISO standard for UPC (Universal Product Code) is, governing its structure and print specifications.


8. Do barcodes have limitations in terms of data capacity?


Yes, traditional barcodes have limited data capacity, which is suitable for basic product information.


9. How can I troubleshoot barcode scanning issues?


Check barcode quality and scanner functionality and ensure the correct format and data encoding for effective troubleshooting.


10. What are the most promising developments in barcode technology for the future?


Future developments include enhanced data capacity, integration with blockchain for security, and improved readability under diverse conditions.


Improving Operational Efficiency Through Supply Chain Visibility

The businesses continuously focus on making operations efficient. This blog explains how supply chain visibility across trading partners can help a company improve its operational efficiency and increase profitability.

Content

  • What is Supply Chain Visibility?
  • Application of Supply Chain Visibility
    • Expiry Management
    • Inventory Reconciliation
    • Efficient Sales Forecasting
    • Product Recall
    • Restructuring Supply Chains
  • How to achieve Supply Chain Visibility?
  • Conclusion and Way Forward

What is Supply Chain Visibility?

Supply chain visibility refers to the ability of a business to know the details of the products available at each node in the supply chain, like a warehouse or a distribution centre. This includes accessing data about the number of products, their batches, manufacturing and expiry dates, etc.

Why Supply Chain Visibility is important?

Every business has a supply chain. It helps raw materials get to the factory and move products from the factory to the end consumers. In the global economy, supply chains are long, complex, and global. In a classic example, software from Bengaluru is embedded in a chip from Taiwan, which is put into a mobile in Noida along with other parts from Malaysia. The mobile is shipped to a customer in Vadodara via a warehouse in Ahmedabad.  This is a complex supply chain involving many entities across different countries. The brand needs to have end-to-end visibility of the supply chain in order to efficiently manage its operations.

Inventory visibility at different nodes in the supply chain is important for businesses for expiry management, recall management, sales forecasting, and planning operations better, among many others. Once the business has end-to-end supply chain visibility, it can take measures to improve operational efficiency. Let’s explore various applications of supply chain visibility.

Expiry Management

All products have a defined shelf life. Depending on the type of product, it could be as short as a day for perishable foods, to a few years for some products, for example in case of cosmetics. Businesses need to implement expiry management processes to prevent losses. Without expiry management processes, a company could have a large number of items returned unsold due to expiry or near to expiry dates.

The businesses usually use a First Expiry First Out (FEFO) principle to reduce losses. To implement this effectively, they have to track the batches of the products as they are produced and released to the supply chain.

With inventory visibility, a business will know which batch of product is at which node in the supply chain. They would know the expiry date of all the products, enabling speedy movement of products, which are close to the expiry by giving some discounts, promotions, etc., if required.

Inventory Reconciliation

Businesses with complex supply chains would have products in different warehouses and with different trading partners throughout the supply chain. The number of products in the warehouses could be mapped in an inventory management system.

Real-time inventory visibility in the supply chain helps in inventory reconciliation. It can help in identifying and minimizing stock deficiencies, improving processes and preventing losses.

This can also help in reconciling mismatches between physical and system inventory. Furthermore, historical inventory data can help in determining the source of mismatch and correcting the same.

Efficient Sales Forecasting

Inventory visibility can help in sales forecasting. A company can get information on how fast a product is being sold and can adjust the production rate to meet the market demand. It also upgrades the readiness of the company to tackle unforeseen situations.

The company can also look at historical data of inventory of the product to forecast how the product sales would be in the coming months. If the inventory is running low, they can forecast and order more quantity to meet future demands.

Product Recall

Sometimes businesses are forced to recall or withdraw a product because of some unforeseen circumstances. The recall may be voluntary or because of a demand by the government.

Usually, product recalls are done at the batch level. To execute the same, brand owner must be aware of which batch of the product is available at which location in the supply chain. This is achieved through inventory visibility. Once the location of the faulty batches of products is ascertained, they can be recalled efficiently.

Restructuring of Supply Chain

Businesses have to continuously deal with dynamic situations. The supply chains should be flexible in order to resolve any situation. For example, there could be a sudden spike in demand for a product at a given location or a particular warehouse may become out of operation because of a natural disaster.

In such cases, real-time end-to-end supply chain visibility is helpful for the business to know from where it can divert the excess stock to fulfil the sudden spike.

How to achieve Supply Chain Visibility?

A company can achieve supply chain visibility using track and trace solutions. The first step is to get a unique identifier for each product SKU. They can use a Global Trade Identifier Number (GTIN) for product identification. GTINs are a globally unique product identifier issued by GS1. The GTIN can be encoded in barcodes and they can be printed on product packaging. The company can also use secondary and tertiary level barcodes for the unique identification of cartons and shipping containers.

When the products enter or leave the warehouse, the barcodes can be scanned and the data can be entered (with accuracy and in no time) in the inventory management system. The inventory management system can calculate the number of products using the scan data.

The company can use traceability solution like DataKart Trace to implement end-to-end inventory visibility in the supply chain. DataKart Trace is a seamless supply chain traceability solution that can be used by any industry or for any geography. It gives both upstream and downstream inventory visibility and enables real-time track and trace throughout the supply chain.

Conclusion and Way Forward

With end-to-end supply chain visibility, the company can improve the efficiency of operations. In the case study of Tata Steel, it has a division that sells doors and windows under the brand Tata Pravesh. They have a very complex supply chain. The supply chain includes multiple manufacturers, distributors and installation agencies, with more than 50 partners involved in all the transactions. They use the end-to-end traceability and supply chain visibility system of DataKart Trace from GS1 India to manage this complex supply chain.

Every company will have to determine how it wants to implement supply chain visibility. The solution would depend on the complexity of the supply chain, the number of products the company has, the shelf life of the products etc. The company can start with a simple barcoding solution. It can also work with GS1 India to develop more customized solutions which focus on the specific needs of the company. This could include other technology solutions like RFID tags and block chain.

The way forward for every company is to start investing in supply chain visibility solutions. This would help in improving the efficiency of the supply chain and increase the profitability of the company.

All You Need to Know About Barcoding

Getting Started with Barcoding

This blog will give you an overview about product barcodes, types of barcodes, benefits of barcodes and how GS1 India can ensure that you get unique identification for your products.

Contents:

  • What are Barcodes?
  • Types of Barcodes
  • Unique Barcode Numbers – GTIN
  • Benefits of unique barcode numbers
  • Role of GS1 India in ensuring uniqueness in product codes

barcode

Barcodes play a very crucial role in a country’s economy especially in the context of supply chain management and retail. Most of the businesses require Barcodes as a tool to manage supply chains for better tracking of their products. You must have noticed that everytime we buy something in the supermarket, the seller scans the barcode on the product to retrieve its information.

What are Barcodes?

Today most of the products you see in the market have barcodes. Barcodes are machine readable symbols which are printed on product packaging. The barcodes are embedded with barcode numbers – numeric codes that give unique identification to the product.

Types of Barcodes

There are various types of barcodes used in the industry. Some popular barcode forms are EAN barcode (linear/ 1-Dimensional barcode), QR code and Datamatrix (2-Dimensional barcodes).

EAN barcodes are mostly used on products for point-of-sale scanning, where the unique code embedded in barcodes is linked with product information like manufacturing and expiry date, manufacturing locations, product attributes, and ingredients, etc. QR codes are majorly used in applications related to entertainment, retail, advertisement, and transactions.

One-dimensional (1D) barcodes / linear barcodes

One-Dimensional Barcodes also known as Linear barcodes convert data with varying-width vertical lines and spaces, it reads horizontally, and accommodates up to 85 characters, but requires more characters for additional data.Some of the common examples of 1D Barcodes explained briefly below –

  • Code 39 – CODE 39 barcodes can encode up to 43 characters, including letters, numbers, and some symbols, making it essential for industrial applications like automotive and electronics.

  • Code 93 – CODE 93 is an updated and fully secured version of Code 39 barcodes which is able to read both letters and numbers. To encode special delivery information, these barcodes are used in fields like Military, and automotive sectors.

  • GS1–128 – GS1-128 Barcodes are the barcodes mainly used for the shipping process among retailers. These barcodes are the standard barcodes that provide a lot of data and also the meaning of data throughout the supply chain.

  • EAN (European Article Number) – EAN are the barcode numbers generated by a standardised body known as GS1. The barcodes are used to identify the products in the supply chain and help you to sell on various e-commerce platforms. It is usually 8 or 13 digits long, and globally accepted.

  • UPC – UPC (Universal Product Code) are the barcode numbers that help identify a product, uniquely. They are most commonly used in Inventory Management, and they also help in minimising the errors in order fulfilment.

There are many more linear barcodes available such as Codabar, ITF, Industrial 2 of 5, Standard 2 of 5 (IATA), MSI Plessey, and Intelligent Mail Barcode etc.

Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes / matrix codes

A two-dimensional (2D) barcode converts data using dots, squares, and shapes, storing information both vertically and horizontally. It’s ideal for web addresses, text, images, and coupons, and also very much capable of holding up to 7,089 characters.

  • PDF417 : PDF417 is a 2D Barcode, used in a variety of applications such as transport, inventory management and identification cards.

  • Data Matrix: A Data Matrix is a 2D code having black and white dots arranged in a square/rectangular pattern, known as matrix. The information encoded in this matrix can be text or numeric data.

  • QR Code: QR code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional Barcode that can be easily read with the help of a digital device. They are used to track the information of the products in a supply chain and also used in marketing & advertising campaigns.

There are many more 2D barcodes available such as PPN, Royal Mail Mailmark, Aztec Code, GiroCode, Swiss QR Code, etc.

Unique Barcode Numbers – GTIN

The barcodes on products are embedded with unique numbers called Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN). These identification numbers are issued by GS1 – a global standards organisation that creates standards for barcoding.

Globally, 4 types of barcode numbers based on the number of digits are used (GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, GTIN-14). In India the most commonly used barcode number is GTIN-13 (also known as European Article Number EAN-13).

By providing unique identification to the trade items, GTINs help avoid duplicity of the barcode, enabling product authentication.

number-structure

Benefits of unique barcode numbers

There are many benefits of having GTINs

  • Uniquely identify each product SKU

  • Key to Master Data Management

  • Globally accepted by e-commerce portals and leading retailers

  • Facilitate efficient and error-free ordering

  • Enables 40% better visibility of product pages through Google search

  • Comply with regulatory requirements set by regulatory bodies like FSSAI, FDA, EMA, AGMARK etc.

  • Facilitates product authentication and counterfeit detection

Role of GS1 India in ensuring uniqueness in product codes

GS1, is a global standards organisation. They provide barcoding solutions to companies. GS1 Global oversees operations of 115 GS1 organisations across the globe.

GS1 global along with its various member organisations, including GS1 India, maintains the integrity of GS1 barcode numbers. Since the GTINs are the global identity of your products, GS1 organisations across the globe ensure that this remains unique. With over 2 million companies using GS1 barcodes, it has become a de facto standard for the retail industry worldwide.

In India, GS1 India is the only authorised body to issue GTIN and GS1 barcodes. It is an ISO 27001 certified company. It was set under the Ministry of trade and commerce, the government of India, as a non-profit organisation.

The barcode numbers issued by GS1 India start with the number ‘890’, which is the country code for barcode numbers allocated by GS1 India.

You can avail authenticate barcode numbers from GS1 India at different prices depending upon the number of barcodes required and the years of subscription associated with the barcode numbers. You can register with GS1 India, follow some predefined steps and GS1 India will help you design and create barcodes that suit your business needs.

Over the past two and a half decades, GS1 India has improved customer experience through the use of barcodes and related services like Traceability, Master Data Management (MDM), etc. Apart from issuing barcodes, GS1 India also provides standards based services to optimise your supply chain operations. These include

To know more, contact GS1 India

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most common barcode types?

Common barcode types like UPC, QR codes, and Code 39, etc simplify inventory management, tracking and product identification in retail and other industries.

2. What barcode types are 12-digit?

UPC-A Barcodes have 12 Digits, which includes 11 digits encoding product data, country, and company code and one check digit for accuracy verification in the end. UPC barcodes can only be represented numerically, the code can only be the digits from 0-9.

3. What is the difference between EAN-8 and EAN-13?

The EAN 13 barcode is for consumer products at checkout, identified by a GTIN-13 or variable weight code. EAN-8, with GTIN-8, is for small items with limited space, like lipstick.

4. What does the barcode stand for?

A barcode is a machine-readable code consisting of numbers and parallel lines of varying widths, used to control products and especially used in stock management.

5. How is a barcode generated?

In India, barcodes are generated in partnership with GS1 India, an official standard body that plays a pivotal role in standardising and managing barcodes, ensuring uniformity and efficiency in the business landscape.

6. Is QR code a barcode?

A QR code is an efficient and user-friendly barcode that stores information in a square-shaped grid of pixels, easily readable by digital devices.

7. What is the code 128 A?

Code 128 A, defined in ISO/IEC 15417:2007, is a high-density linear barcode used for alphanumeric or numeric-only data.

Importance of Barcodes in e-Commerce Operations: Amazon’s Example

This blog gives an overview of the importance of barcodes in e-Commerce marketplace operations and supply chain processes.

Content

  • Introduction
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Supplier Relationship Management
    • Fulfilment by Amazon
    • Fulfilment by Merchant
  • Internal Supply Chain Management
  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Conclusion

Introduction

Amazon is a major e-commerce marketplace in India. Its operating revenue from e-commerce sales in India was Rs162 billion in March 2021. As per a report published by Inc42 in 2021, it has more than 850 thousand sellers selling 50 million+ products to 100 million+ users in India. This blog focusses on how barcodes help Amazon in its supply chain operations.

Supply Chain Management

As an e-commerce marketplace, Amazon has a very complex supply chain. It has to get the products from its vendors, manage warehouse operations, and supply to the customers when they order the product.

The entire supply chain management can be divided into three domains viz. Supplier Relationship Management, Internal Supply Chain Management, and Customer Relationship Management.

Supplier Relationship Management: 

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) is an approach to systematically access the contribution of suppliers in the business. It helps to improve business processes by coordination and evaluation.

Barcodes make the order receiving process accurate, scalable, fast, and traceable, thereby helping Amazon Marketplace manage supplier relationships. 

There are two modes of listing products on Amazon, viz. — Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM).

Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA)

FBA is the business model that helps suppliers and business owners use Amazon’s vast logistics network spread across India to deliver products to customers.

Sellers list their products on Amazon and then ship them to Amazon fulfilment centres for further processing.

At the Amazon fulfilment centre, the following inbound processes take place.

  1. Each product is received by the inbound team
  2. Each product has a unique barcode called Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN), which is linked with GTIN
  3. The ASIN is scanned and the product is stowed in mobile storage pods
  4. These storage pods are moved from one location to another using automated robots
  5. Details of the product, including quantity and which storage pod the product is stored in, is recorded in Amazon’s inventory system.

When a consumer orders a product the following outbound processes take place.

  1. The Amazon inventory system checks and locates the storage pod where the item is stored
  2. The storage pod is moved by robots to the pick station
  3. An associate picks the item and places it in a tray which is transported to packing station via conveyer belts
  4. The items are packed, and a barcode is placed on the package
  5. The package is sent via conveyer belt to a SLAM (Scan, Label, Apply and Manifest) station
  6. The system scans the barcode, and prints and applies the consumer address on the package.
  7. The package is then shipped to the consumer.

Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM)

In FBM, the merchant is responsible for handling and shipping products. While Amazon acts as a platform to sell the product, the seller directly ships them to the final customer.

Amazon encourages third-party sellers to use Global Trade Identification Numbers (GTIN) to uniquely identify the products when they want to list the products on Amazon. The GTIN is a globally unique identification number for a product, issued by GS1 organisations across the globe. The sellers can use GTIN (EAN Product Codes) to identify the products and manage the master data for all their products. They can use DataKart to easily share product attributes with Amazon for listing on the platform or pull the data in required format and share it externally.

Internal Supply Chain Management:

Internal supply chain management refers to the functions such as sales, distribution, inventory keeping, and warehouse management, etc.

Amazon uses ASIN to improve efficiency of its supply chain. This enables

  • Data entry in the inventory system
  • Reconciliation of physical and system inventory
  • Enabling automation in warehouses
    • Barcodes are scanned while storing and retrieving items
    • Barcode scans are used to move items on correct conveyer belts
    • Package barcodes are scanned for labelling of packages for shipment
  • Reduce processing time
  • Improved data accuracy

Customer Relationship Management:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is used to manage a company’s relationships and interactions with current and future customers to improve business relations.

The consumers get a better shopping experience while browsing on e-commerce sites as they are able to easily view products which are similar to their previous searches and purchases. This improves consumer loyalty for the company and generates positive word of mouth which results in higher profitability.

The use of ASIN facilitates better consumer relationship management.

  • Marketplaces can tailor display of product categories, based on prior order/search history of user
  • A consumer can scan the product barcode (GTIN) on the product to directly order the item from the Amazon app
  • ASIN and barcodes can be used for hassle-free tracking of orders
  • ASIN can be used as product identifiers while interacting with consumer care team

Conclusion

Amazon has showcased how unique barcodes encoded with unique product identification facilitate world-class warehousing solutions, inventory management, product visibility, effortless product tracing, and efficient supply chain management. Other marketplaces are also adopting barcodes (GTINs) to improve their operations.

How to Generate GTIN Barcodes: A Quick Guide

Quick Guide to Generate GTIN Barcodes

E-commerce websites, like Amazon, Big Basket and others require sellers to enter product IDs/GTINs to get listed on their shopping portal. GS1 India allocates GTINs, which can be generated through DataKart (MDM system that enables online generation and management of GTINs).

This blog is a quick guide which will help companies and brand owners generate GTINs or GS1 barcode numbers for their products.

Contents:

  • Register with GS1 India
  • Login to DataKart
  • Get GTIN allocation
  • Download Barcodes for printing

Steps to Generate GTIN

The steps to generate GTIN are given as below.


  1. Register with GS1 India

In case you want to sell your products or services through online platform then you can issue a request to GS1 India for allocation of GTIN. In fact, once you are registered with GS1 India or any other authorised GS1 organisation, you can create any of the GS1 ID keys using your subscription number.

GS1 India is the only authorised body in India to allocate these barcode numbers. If you are not registered yet, the first step is registering with GS1 India.

For registration, fill an online form by visiting GS1 India website.

While filling the form, it is important to carefully select the ‘number of product barcodes’ based on your both current and future requirements for barcode numbers. This is because when any change occurs to your product (in net content, ingredients, pack size, etc.) or new one gets introduced (promotional variants/new products), you would require to change the barcode number on the same.

This must be taken into account while deciding for the barcode number capacity since it’s not possible to upgrade the selected capacity after registration. In such cases, you would need to apply a fresh registration by paying the applicable registration and annual fee at that time

The GTINs are available in batches of 100, 1000, 10,000 and 100,000.

After filling the required details and attaching required company documents, pay the required fees using payment options. Once this process is completed, your will receive your barcode subscription allotment letter in 4-7 working days.


  1. Login to DataKart

    • Use the credentials given in your GTIN allocation letter to log in to DataKart portal.

  • After logging in to DataKart, click on ‘Create Product Data’ icon on your DataKart home.

  • ‘Create Product Data’ screen will appear, with GTIN as prefilled value and different product attributes as blank fields. You may take a note of this GTIN.


  1. Get GTIN

To assign GTIN number allocated to your product, add the product attributes and hit ‘Save & Publish’ towards the end.

In DataKart, you may either add data of product individually or in bulk. If you have large number of products you can download an excel template, put the details in the template and upload the same.

Once done, GTIN numbers get allocated to your products.

For help, visit the ‘Knowledge Centre’ under ‘Resources’, or seek support by visiting ‘Support’ link under ‘Resources’.

support-related-resources

In case, you get stuck at readily available product images, download GS1 India’s ClickIt mobile app from Google PlayStore to capture e-commerce ready product images from your mobile phone.


  1. Download barcode images for packaging artwork

From DataKart home, click on ‘Generate and Print Barcodes’ and go to ‘SKU’ option. Select the Product Name and Output File Type, and click ‘Generate’.

DataKart also enables you to print barcodes for your cartons and pallets, logistic labels, etc.

Why Buy GTINs from GS1 India?

With the increasing business and supply chain complexities, it is becoming essential to get barcode numbers for unique identification and better visibility of products. In barcodes, this unique code is encrypted and can be scanned electronically using laser or camera-based scanners. Organizations use product barcodes to attain multiple objectives such as maximized cost efficiency and minimized response time. In supply chain management, it is referred to as the responsiveness-efficiency frontier, where organizations struggle to provide low-cost solutions with the minimum delivery time to their customers.  Barcodes make the supply chain faster and help lower the overall supply chain cost, which otherwise is difficult to manage in global and competitive scenarios.

Barcode numbers can be generated from many online websites free of cost, but they can create several issues, such as duplicate codes for multiple products, multiple codes for a single product, and more importantly, they cannot be read and understood by all trading partners. Such codes are not unique, making back-tracing much more difficult. Moreover, these locally generated barcodes cannot be validated universally. Hence, it is essential to buy barcodes from a licensed body such as GS1 India. GS1 India enables product data entry of only authorized GTINs to the national repository, DataKart. Further, using GS1 barcode numbers can also lead to higher product visibility to brand owners/ manufacturers through search engines by using GTINs (GS1 barcode numbers) in the coding of product pages.  

A large percentage of products in the market are without GTINs. However, listing the products without GTINs can invite many issues as most of the e-commerce websites and retailers need a unique product code, which can be authenticated. This helps them list products uniquely and manage their internal processes such as ordering, invoicing, despatch, receipts, etc.  Hence, e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket, etc., require brand owners to share GTINs to list their products on websites. 

GS1 India is the only authorized body and a standards organisation in India issuing GS1 barcode numbers.  GS1 issues and manages unique product code (UPC)/ Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN) for all trade items worldwide. GTIN can be linked to information such as product specifications, serial and product number, manufacturing details, source of origin, order status, destination details, etc. Thus, barcodes ensure unique identification for products and facilitate easy tracking at any point of the supply chain. They also enable product validation by retailers and e-tailers. For example, Amazon India uses GS1 India’s GTIN validation service for listing products on its site.

DataKart is the national product information repository, hosting information on over 14 million products. It stores all product-related information that can be assessed at any time by brand owners, retailers and online marketplaces. DataKart helps its users meet several requirements such as expediting the product listing process, generating product and carton barcodes, sharing product changes with retailers/e-tailers, etc., that are crucial in the B2B, B2G, B2C space. It also helps brand owners gain global reach by sharing information in the global product data repository. DataKart allows easy knowledge management by allowing API integration with various retail software and provides implementation and operational support.

With DataKart, manufacturers can also directly connect with their consumers through the Smart Consumer mobile app which enables them to share detailed product information to its consumers by scanning the GS1 barcode numbers (GTINs) on product packaging.

Set up by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, along with other apex trade bodies, GS1 India is a standards organization that provides a B2B platform for the industry to connect together. With their GTINs issuance and traceability services, GS1 India will help you adopt global standards in your supply chain to enhance efficiency and profitability.

Is It Possible to Launch Products Without a Barcode?

In recent decades, barcodes have been leveraged in both the brick-and-mortar and e-commerce industries. Barcode encodes a unique identification number, which is issued and maintained by GS1, a global supply chain standards organization present in 115 countries globally. With Global Trade Identity Number (GTIN), GS1 provides unique product identification that brings efficiency in various supply chain and retail processes.

Barcoding is a fundamental building block for creating an infrastructure that is used across various supply chain, be it warehouse management, quality control, or product tracking till it reaches the final customer. With GTIN becoming a need with the evolving e-commerce system, the database that it creates has upsurged data analytics for gaining business insights. Listing the product with barcode number on ecommerce website or any other marketplaces makes the process much more convenient. 

However, if you don’t have a barcode, can you still launch your product in market? Yes, of course. In this post, we have addressed this question, which has gained prominent traction, especially from local manufacturers selling handicrafts, artifacts, and homemade products, who think barcoding costs is significantly higher owning to their low business turnover.

The necessity of GTINs depends upon the product category. Though many products can be sold through ecommerce platforms without GTINs, there are few categories for which GTINs are mandatory.  Big marketplaces such as Amazon, Flipkart ask for GTIN to list your product on their platform; however, if you do not have it, they also provide an alternative for launching your products.  While it is possible to launch your product without a barcode, the alternatives depend upon the product category and the associated brand. Let us have a look at how you can launch your product without a barcode.

  • If the Product category is already listed on Amazon: If the category for your product already exists on their site, you don’t require a GTIN to launch your product. You can link your product with Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) by using it as your product ID..

ASIN is a unique identity given by Amazon to almost all the products listed on Amazon for its identification.

  • If the product category does not exist: If your product does not fit into the existing categories, you can apply for an GTIN (EAN/UPC) exemption through their seller central login page. This is ideal when your product is homemade and non-branded and if you are selling products or a combination of products (Bundles) having no GTINs (barcode number). GTIN exemption can be done with and without a brand registry. Having a brand registry does not give you GTIN exemption but having GTIN exemption can allow you to launch your product without a brand registry. You will be required to choose a product category and name the brand for your product. Further, you will need to produce a brand support letter authorizing your product and confirmation that it does not have a GTIN. GTIN (EAN/UPC) exemption does not offer a lifetime of validity for your product to be listed on the platform, and you have to reapply for it after every month. The process of GTIN (EAN/UPC) exemption itself is very slow, and you can expect a request completion time of 30 days.

Hence, to save yourself from these hassles, it is recommended for every entrepreneur or potential entrepreneur/business while launching their products should have GTINs in place as it saves companies money while improving quality, on-time performance, and other key business factors.

EAN 13 – The Barcode Number

European Article numbering code (EAN) is a series of numbers in a unique order that helps identify specific products and is used to list products for retail businesses.

An EAN-13 barcode (originally European Article Number), but now renamed GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) even though the abbreviation EAN has been still used by retailers) is a 13 digit (12 data and 1 check) barcoding standard. The EAN-13 barcode is used worldwide for marking products often sold at retail points of sale. The numbers encoded in EAN-13 bar codes are product identification numbers.

What is GTIN?

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a system developed by the GS1 and is an internationally recognized system for identifying products. It is a blanket term to describe various GS1 numbering codes – UPC and EAN. It is, hence, safe to term an EAN-13 code as a GTIN-13. GTIN provides the global supply chain solution for the identification of any item that is traded (priced, ordered, and invoiced)..

GTIN includes four types of codes:

UPC-12:               The twelve-digit code that North America uses.

EAN-8:                The eight-digit code used on smaller retail trade items.

EAN-13:               The thirteen-digit code for all other countries.

GTIN-14:              The fourteen-digit number used on general distribution trade items, not intended to be sold at the Point-of-Sale.

To create a GTIN, a company needs to be in possession of a GS1 company prefix. The assigned company prefix forms the base for the creation of all GS1 identifiers like GLN, GTIN, and SSCC numbers.

Why EAN-13 barcode?

The advent of the EAN-13 barcode is a data structure stepping-stone toward the supply chain control. It is used in global trade to distinguish the product type, specification, etc. In other words, it helps the product be uniquely identified. It is a numeric-only bar code system used for the identification of retail products. Unique numbers are allocated to each separate retail product, not just by product brand but by unique numbers. This assists in positing the products with retailers and e-commerce companies. It facilitates a future where intelligent workflows will fuel data-driven smart supply chains.

The future smarter supply chains continue to not just embrace automation with the help of the EAN -13 barcode, but also use AI to make processes more efficient, responsive, and adaptive. Most importantly the visibility and traceability solutions in the supply chain have gained momentum, these are the “twin engines of sustainable” supply chain.

The EAN-13 barcode has withstood the test of time because it continues to serve a key role in the evolving digital future of retail where the product is identified uniquely and the data it captures will shape decisions affecting customers and retailers.

Components of an EAN-13 barcode number

The first three digits of the EAN-13 serve as the GS1 Prefix. The GS1 prefix usually identifies the GS1 Member Organization which the manufacturer has joined.

The Manufacturer Code is a unique code assigned to each manufacturer by the numbering authority and all products made by a certain company use the same manufacturer code. The product code is a unique code assigned solely by the manufacturer.

The check digit is the last number used to confirm if a bar code was scanned correctly. This additional number is mathematically determined through an algebraic equation to create a checksum.

Barcodes revolutionising the world

Barcode is worldwide used; its popularity can be attested by its use in all parts of our life. A barcode reader is an optical machine-readable representation of data relating to the object to which it is attached.

The EAN-13 barcodes are used worldwide for marking products often sold at retail points of sale. The numbers encoded in EAN-13 bar codes are product identification numbers. All the numbers encoded in UPC and EAN barcodes are known as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTIN), and they can be encoded in other GS1 barcodes.

EAN-13 is popular, recognizable, and useful for general day-to-day retail transactions since it can be read by any barcode reader. The check number also helps ensure accuracy when entering the code by hand. It combines numbers together mathematically in a certain way to get a specific, one-digit outcome. If the check digit does not match that outcome, then the code has been entered incorrectly.

Additional benefits

Barcode numbers play a crucial role in supply chains, including selling products over the counter and listing them on e-commerce websites. Various national and international regulatory bodies have endorsed the use of GS1 barcodes on products. The use of GS1 barcode numbers (GTINs) helps you in complying with various requirements, including those of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, DGFT, US FDA, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Delhi Excise EU Regulations on UDI, and more. GS1 barcode numbers on your products enable you to list your products faster with leading retailers and online shopping portals. GS1 barcode numbers, when used on a product webpage, show a 40% improvement in search results. GS1’s DataKart service enables free and easy barcode number management and the generation of barcode images

Why buy from GS1 India

  • GS1 India is the only authorised body in India to issue GS1 barcode numbers.
  • If your label your products with authentic GS1 barcodes (bought from GS1 India), your products will be visible through various GS1 repositories, including Verified by GS1, GEPIR, GS1 DataKart, etc.
  • You will get access to GS1 DataKart, the national repository of product information for retail items.
  • Your product information would be visible to consumers through Smart Consumer mobile app, wich is accessed by millions of consumers
  • You would get implementation assistance at every step of the process
  • You would get assistance in uploading information on your old products to DataKart
  • You would get complementary access to an imaging app, to click retail-ready photos of your products using your phone.

The Future

For the last 20 years, barcode technology has been the bastion of bigger businesses that adopted the technology to massively reduce human errors and increase efficiency in business operations.

Today, barcodes are completely integrated into mainstream life—nearly every product in a grocery, department, or mass merchandise store bears a barcode. It’s clear that this technology works, and will continue to do so.

If you already understand the needs of your partners and customers, choosing how to serve those needs most efficiently is where GS1 India can help.

All you need to do is connect with GS1 India team to learn more about how GS1 standards can support your needs. As it continues to provide leadership, guidance, and support for on-pack solutions that allow businesses to adapt and scale over time, aligning with GS1 India will offer you a plethora of tools and abundant globally aligned guidance to help your business along this journey.

Reach out to see how GS1 India can help.

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