If you have ever wanted to sell products on Amazon, in supermarkets, or export them abroad, you have probably realized that barcodes are mandatory. It sounds simple: you just get the code, print it, and stick it on the packaging. But many small businesses often encounter difficulties with unreliable suppliers, expensive “barcode packages,” or registrations that look legitimate but don’t work when scanned at major stores. This article will guide you on how to generate barcodes for products correctly, safely, and effectively.

What a barcode really is

A barcode is not just a label; it is the digital identity of the product. Each barcode contains information about the company, the product code, and sometimes the country of origin. When scanned, the actual product is linked to a database, ensuring that shipping, payment, and inventory management are accurate. When you are learning how to generate barcodes for products, you are essentially creating a global ID that stores and retail platforms can recognize and verify.

Why many people get scammed when generating barcodes

Every month, thousands of new business owners search for “how to generate barcodes for products” and find many cheap options like “Only ₹499 for 100 barcodes!”, “Lifetime use!”, “GS1 verified!”. The truth is that most of these transactions do not have legitimate GS1 codes. These sellers often provide expired or previously used company prefixes. As a result, products may be rejected or removed from retail platforms.

Signs of barcode scams

• No GS1 prefix or business registration.

• Advertising “barcode packs available for immediate download.”

• Prices that are too cheap compared to the market.

• No contact information or clear address.

The simple rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

How to generate barcodes for products correctly

To ensure a barcode works correctly, you need to follow a few basic steps.

Register with GS1 – The trusted global authority

GS1 is an international organization trusted to issue barcodes, from major products like Coca-Cola to local snacks. Visit the GS1 website in your country to register. You need to prepare: business name and contact details, detailed product information, and valid business registration. GS1 will then issue a Company Prefix, the first part of your barcode number sequence.

Assign codes to each product

After receiving your prefix, assign a unique number to each product. For example, if you sell 10 different snacks or 5 types of beverages, each item will have its own number to track SKUs (Stock Keeping Units). This step is crucial, especially for food products, as each flavor or packaging size needs its own barcode.

Choose the appropriate barcode type

The most common types are:

• EAN-13 (13 digits): Used globally for retail.

• UPC (12 digits): Mainly used in the US and Canada.

• GS1-128 / ITF-14: Used for shipping boxes or cartons.

If you want to sell packaged products in stores, EAN-13 is the best choice.

Generate the barcode image

Once you have the number sequence, use GS1 software or licensed software to create a barcode image in PNG, EPS, or PDF formats. You can print directly on boxes or create labels. Avoid using “free barcode generators” online, as they often create images only and not legitimate GS1 codes.

Check and revise

Always verify your barcode using an online scanner before releasing the product. Many free tools allow scanning via phone or PC. This is a simple way to ensure correct print size, scannability, and proper formatting.

Generating barcodes for food products

If you sell food or beverages, additional regulations must be followed:

• The barcode must not obscure production or nutritional information.

• Include batch numbers and expiration dates for easy tracking.

• Use the EAN-13 format for quick scanning.

• Track batches to facilitate recalls if needed.

• Register early to undergo checks and certifications before distribution.

Many FMCG companies generate barcodes before final packaging to test scanning at stores.

Common mistakes when generating barcodes

• Codes are not legally registered even if scannable.

• Reusing old codes for new products.

• Poor print quality, too small, or placed near folds.

• Not verifying after printing.

Mistakes can be costly to fix, so it’s important to do it right the first time.

Why you should not buy cheap barcodes online

Websites selling cheap barcodes often use fake, reused, or GS1-logo-mimicking codes. Risks include invalid prefixes, product rejection on Amazon or stores, global blocking, and intellectual property violations. The only safe way is to register through GS1 or a certified provider.

Solutions for small businesses

• GS1 provides short-term licenses for small businesses.

• Startup support programs or trade associations may help obtain GS1 numbers.

• Some large stores provide temporary numbers for small businesses.

Legitimate barcodes always trace back to GS1.

Real-world example

Harvest Lane Foods, a local granola and snack brand, did not buy cheap codes online but registered with GS1 and assigned unique codes to each flavor and size. Within weeks, their products were listed on BigBasket and Amazon Pantry, scanned correctly, and built trust with customers.

Conclusion

Generating a barcode may seem simple, but it is one of the best ways to build trust and credibility for your product. Shortcuts or fake codes can ruin reputation, listings, and peace of mind. Registering with GS1 is the only way to ensure your barcode is globally recognized and legally valid.

The Beetech difference

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Our experienced engineering team supports businesses from consulting and implementation to full product lifecycle support, ensuring RFID solutions operate stably and deliver maximum value.

Let Beetech be your trusted partner in building smart management systems, helping businesses enhance competitiveness and progress further in the digital era!

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Source: QodeNext India Private Limited. (2025, October 28). How to generate Barcodes for products: Don’t get scammed. QodeNext