Overview of Barcode Registration in India
In the 1970s, barcodes were introduced to make the checkout process in supermarkets faster and more efficient. What started as a simple solution for quicker product scanning has now evolved into a global standard. Today, barcodes are used in nearly every industry to track and manage products, optimize inventory, and ensure smooth and accurate transactions.
In India, registering barcodes has become crucial for businesses of all sizes. Barcodes have completely transformed how businesses function, making them an essential part of modern commerce. They are not just a technical requirement; they ensure that your products are easily recognized both in India and across international markets, helping you stay in line with industry standards. Whether you are a small retailer or a large manufacturer, having registered barcodes makes your product identifiable to consumers, retailers, and supply chains, both in India and abroad.
Registering your barcode with the proper authority ensures you remain compliant with regulations, improve operational efficiency, and open up opportunities for your business to grow. Kanakkupilai is here to simplify the barcode registration process for you. With our expertise, we’ll guide you through the entire procedure, helping you get your barcodes registered quickly.
What is a Barcode?
A barcode is a graphical representation of information that a scanner can read. It is made up of black lines and spaces, each representing data related to a product, like its price, unique identification number, or other specifications. Barcodes have become the backbone of modern retail, logistics, and inventory management.
Who Governs Barcode Registration in India?
GS1 India is a non-profit organization and the official body responsible for barcode registration. It is part of the global GS1 network, which is recognized worldwide for setting the standards for barcode identification and supply chain management. GS1 India manages the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) system, which assigns unique identification numbers to products and ensures that the assigned barcodes can be universally recognized. When you register with GS1 India, you get a globally recognized barcode which can be used anywhere.
The GS1 India governs barcodes in compliance with Indian trade and consumer protection laws. It ensures that products meet the necessary standards for trade and that you remain compliant with established industry norms.
Types of Barcodes
The barcodes come in many different types, and some of them are mentioned below:
- EAN-13 (European Article Number)
The EAN-13 is a 13-digit barcode commonly used for retail products and consumer goods. It is widely recognized globally and is the standard barcode used for product identification in most retail stores.
- EAN-8 (European Article Number)
The EAN-8 is a shorter, 8-digit version of the EAN-13 barcode. It is used to label products, especially for smaller products where there is limited space for a full-sized barcode, such as cosmetics or small packaging.
- UPC (Universal Product Code)
UPC is a 12-digit barcode widely used in North America. It serves the same purpose as the EAN-13 but is the standard format for retail products in the USA and Canada.
- GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
GTIN is a broader category that includes multiple barcode formats like GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, and GTIN-14. It is used for product identification at a global level.
- ITF-14 (Interleaved Two of Five)
ITF-14 is a 14-digit barcode used for shipping cartons or pallets containing multiple units of the same product. It helps track bulk products in warehouses and supply chains.
- QR Code (Quick Response Code)
QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store much more information than traditional one-dimensional barcodes. They are often used for marketing, digital payments, and easy access to product details on websites by smartphones.
- DataMatrix
DataMatrix is a 2D barcode that stores information. It stores large amounts of data in a small space and is commonly used in industries like aerospace, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
- PDF417
PDF417 is a 2D barcode that can store large amounts of data and is commonly used for applications that require encoding detailed information, such as driver's licenses, transport documents, and shipping labels.
- Aztec Code
The Aztec Code is a 2D barcode similar to the QR code, but it can be scanned even if partially damaged. It is used in mobile ticketing and transportation systems; it has industrial applications as well.
- Code 128
Code 128 is a high-density 1D barcode that can represent all 128 ASCII characters. It can encode a large range of data and is used in various industries like shipping, packaging, and warehousing.
- Code 39
Code 39 is one of the oldest and most common 1D barcodes. It is alphanumeric, meaning it can encode both letters and numbers. It is used in a variety of industries like automotive, healthcare, and defence.
- Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF)
This 1D barcode can encode even and odd digits and is used in logistics, shipping, and warehousing, including packaging.
- Codabar
Codabar is a 1D barcode that is primarily used in the healthcare and library industries. It is simple to print and decode and is commonly used for inventory and tracking purposes.
- MSI Plessey
MSI Plessey is a 1D barcode often used for inventory control and point-of-sale applications. It encodes numbers in a linear format and is mainly used in the retail and warehousing industries.
- RSS-14 (Reduced Space Symbology)
RSS-14 is a 2D barcode that allows data to be encoded in a small space. It is commonly used in retail applications for product identification, especially where space is limited on small items.
- Telepen
Telepen barcode can encode both letters and numbers, and its format is used in a variety of applications, such as identifying products and shipping packages.
- MaxiCode
MaxiCode is a 2D barcode created by UPS that is used for package tracking and routing in the logistics industry. It is commonly used for high-speed sorting systems and delivery processes.
Why Register a Barcode in India?
If you are running a business in India, registering your barcode can have a major impact on everything from your supply chain to customer trust. Here's how it directly benefits businesses:
- Better Tracking - When you register a barcode, it makes it much easier to track your product every step of the way, like in a warehouse, on a store shelf, or in transit to a customer. Without barcodes, tracking can become a never-ending task that can lead to errors that cost businesses time and money.
- Inventory Management - Barcodes help you avoid the problems of running out of stock and overstocking by making it easy to keep track of your inventory. With barcode systems, you can instantly know how much stock you have, when to restock, and what is selling faster. Better management helps find good strategies for business growth.
- Expanding Reach - Barcode registration is an essential requirement for entrepreneurs who are looking to expand their business globally. Without a registered barcode, your products may not be accepted by retailers or online platforms. In today’s global economy, barcodes are a universal standard that helps get your products noticed everywhere—from local stores to international e-commerce sites. A barcode registered through GS1 India ensures your products can quickly be sold across the globe without running into regulatory issues.
- Faster Transactions - When you walk into a store and buy something, you probably don’t think about the barcode, but that simple scan helps everything run smoothly. Barcodes help the checkout process by making transactions quicker and leaving less room for errors. The fast and easy process makes the customers happy.
- Meeting Industry Standards - Many businesses, including food, medicines, and electronics, require barcode registration. According to industry regulations, barcodes must be used to identify and monitor products in order to guarantee compliance and safety.
Eligibility Criteria for Barcode Registration
The eligibility criteria for barcode registration in India are as follows:
- Business Entity: Your business must be a legally registered entity (LLP, partnership, company, or sole proprietorship).
- GST Registration: When you sell products and your business's annual turnover reaches a particular threshold, GST registration is mandatory.
- Product Range: You need to have at least one product that requires barcode registration. The more products you plan to barcode, the higher the number of barcodes you will need.
Documents Required for Barcode Registration
Provide the following documents for barcode registration in India:
- Business Registration Proof, such as GST Registration Certificate, Company Incorporation Number, Partnership Agreement, and LLP Agreement.
- PAN card of the organisation
- Memorandum of Incorporation and the Articles of Association.
- Bank statement or cancelled cheque of the organization.
- A list of products you want to register, along with their descriptions.
- GS1 India application form for barcode registration.
- A letter signed by an authorized representative of your company for barcode registration.
Barcode Registration Process in India
The barcode registration process in India is:
1. Become a Member of GS1 India
To begin the registration process, businesses must first become members of GS1 India. Membership is required to access the global database of barcodes and get the necessary permissions to assign barcodes to products.
2. Choose the Right Barcode Type
GS1 India offers different barcode formats depending on the type of business and product. Choose as per your business needs.
3. Submit Required Documents
The cost of barcode registration depends on your product range and your business's annual turnover. The fee structure also depends on the type and number of barcodes required for your business. After payment, your application will be processed, and your barcode(s) will be assigned.
4. Receive Your Barcode
Once your application is approved, you will receive a unique barcode for each product, which you can print on labels and use for product packaging and retail.
Do Barcodes Need to Be Renewed?
Once a barcode is registered with the relevant authority, such as GS1 India, it does not need to be renewed annually, but you may need to renew your GS1 membership annually. Renewal of the membership ensures that you continue to have access to updated standards, support, and services. But if the products change in any way, such as size, colour, or variant, you might need a new barcode.
It is pertinent to note that Barcodes themselves do not expire. Still, if there are changes in packaging, product labelling, or supply chain requirements, it is vital to ensure the barcode is still scannable and readable. If your barcode label gets damaged or poorly printed, you may need to update the barcode on the packaging.
Why Choose Kanakkupillai for Barcode Registration?
Kanakkupillai is the leading service provider for Barcode Registration in India. Kanakkupillai has emerged as the top choice among several entrepreneurs for the following reasons:
- Professional Advice: Our staff assists you in determining the best barcode type for your company and line of products.
- Easy Documentation: To save you time and effort, we help you prepare and submit all the paperwork needed for registration.
- Reasonably priced Services: We provide economical solutions that work for companies of all sizes, from start-ups to multinational conglomerates.
- End-to-end Support: We offer assistance round the clock to ensure that your doubts and confusion are clearly and properly on time.
- Efficient Processing: We guarantee that there will be no unnecessary delays and that your barcode registration procedure will be finished as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a barcode?
Once your application is submitted and approved, you can expect to receive your barcode within 1-2 weeks.Can I register a barcode for just one product?
Yes, GS1 India allows you to register barcodes for individual products.Do I need a separate barcode for each product variant (e.g., color, size)?
Yes, each variant of a product needs a unique barcode.Is a barcode required for online sales?
Yes, most e-commerce platforms require products to have a registered barcode for listing.Can I use my barcode internationally?
Yes, barcodes from GS1 India are globally recognized, allowing your products to be sold worldwide.Can I transfer my barcode to a different product?
No, once a barcode is assigned, it is linked to a specific product and cannot be transferred.Do I need to renew my barcode every year?
You need to renew your GS1 India membership annually to maintain your barcode registration.Can Kanakkupillai help with barcode printing?
Yes, we assist with printing your barcodes on product labels that comply with GS1 standards.What makes Us Different

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