10 Essential Facts About Barcodes in India
Barcodes have revolutionized product identification, inventory management, and retail operations in India. Whether you’re a manufacturer, retailer, or entrepreneur looking to buy a barcode in India, understanding their significance is crucial. Here are ten essential facts about the barcode of Indian products and their role in business.
1. What Are Barcodes?
Barcodes are machine-readable symbols that store product information, such as price, manufacturing details, and stock-keeping data. They consist of parallel lines (1D) or patterns (2D) that scanners decode for quick retrieval. In India, barcodes are widely used in retail, logistics, and healthcare.
2. GS1 India is the Authorized Barcode Issuer
GS1 India, a non-profit under the Ministry of Commerce, is the only authorized body to issue Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) for Indian products. These barcodes start with the prefix 890, India’s country code, ensuring global recognition.
3. Types of Barcodes Used in India
The most common barcodes in India include:
- EAN-13: A 13-digit code for retail products.
- UPC-A: A 12-digit code used in the U.S. but accepted globally.
- GS1-128: Used in logistics for shipping labels.
- QR Codes: 2D codes for marketing and digital payments.
4. Barcodes Enhance Supply Chain Efficiency
Barcodes streamline inventory tracking, reduce human errors, and speed up checkout processes. Retailers and e-commerce platforms rely on them for accurate stock management and faster order fulfilment.
5. Barcodes Improve Online Product Visibility
Google ranks products with GTINs 40% higher in search results. If you want to buy barcode in India, ensure it’s GS1-compliant to boost your product’s online presence.
6. Barcode Registration Process in India
To get a barcode for Indian products, follow these steps:
- Register with GS1 India.
- Submit company documents (PAN, GST, etc.).
- Pay fees based on turnover and barcode quantity.
- Generate barcodes via GS1’s DataKart portal.
7. Cost of Barcodes in India
The price depends on:
- Number of barcodes needed.
- Company’s annual turnover.
- Subscription duration (1–10 years).
Small businesses can start with a batch of 100 GTINs.
8. Barcodes Help Combat Counterfeiting
GS1 barcodes authenticate products, reducing counterfeit risks. Retailers and consumers can verify product origins using Smart Consumer apps.
9. Industry-Specific Barcode Requirements
- Pharma: Requires Data Matrix codes for drug tracking.
- Books: Need ISBNs instead of standard barcodes.
- Food & FMCG: Use EAN-13 for retail compliance.
10. Future of Barcodes in India
With advancements like blockchain integration and smart labels, barcodes will further enhance traceability and consumer engagement. GS1 India continues to innovate with solutions like Digital Link QR codes.
Additional Insights on Barcodes in India
Barcodes are mandatory for exports and e-commerce listings on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. Many Indian startups now use dynamic QR codes for customer engagement. The government’s Digital India initiative promotes barcode adoption to digitize retail. GS1 also offers training programs to help businesses implement barcode systems effectively. Emerging technologies like RFID may complement barcodes for advanced tracking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need to buy barcodes in India or understand the barcode of Indian products, GS1 India’s standardized system ensures seamless integration into global markets. Adopting barcodes not only improves operational efficiency but also strengthens brand credibility in an increasingly digital economy.
