What is a GS1 Company Prefix and Why It Matters for Trade
A GS1 Company Prefix is a special number given to businesses that allow barcode creation, globally accepted for selling products and tracking them in the supply chain.
While it doesn’t guarantee that everyone will see or validate your product globally, it ensures your barcodes work with systems that follow GS1 standards.
Knowing how and when to use
these prefixes is crucial for businesses looking to improve their supply chains and save money. For manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers, getting one is the first step in creating barcodes that are recognized and accepted worldwide.
Company Prefix and GTIN
The GS1 Company Prefix is issued by GS1, a nonprofit group that sets worldwide rules for identifying products and generating barcodes.
This prefix number is a key part of a barcode and forms Global Trade Item Numbers (GTIN) for products when combined with other identification keys.
The first few digits indicate the country or region where the company is registered with GS1, though this doesn’t reflect where the product is made.
For example, a barcode prefix starting with "940" means the company is registered in New Zealand, but the product could be manufactured elsewhere.
What Can You Do With a GS1 Company Prefix?
The length varies based on the business's needs: shorter prefixes are issued to businesses with many products, while smaller businesses get longer prefixes.
The prefix/identifier helps create GS1 barcodes for more than just selling products. It is a unique identifier, making tracking products and managing inventory easier. Businesses can use them to:
- Create retail barcodes like EAN-13 or UPC to scan and track store items.
- Enable businesses to generate GS1 QR codes. When scanned, QR codes can provide customers with
- promotional content or detailed product information.
Assign unique codes for internal use, such as organizing warehouse stock or tracking supplies.
This usage not only smooths the flow of products through the supply chain but also improves record-keeping and reduces logistical errors. Retailers can track sales more easily, while suppliers can manage restocking based on batch numbers.
GS1 QR Code Integration and Consumer Engagement
Building on the GS1 Company Prefix, businesses can integrate GS1 QR Codes to boost both operational efficiency and consumer engagement.These QR Codes improve processes like inventory management and product tracking while offering customers direct access to information, promotions, or usage instructions.
GS1 Digital Link QR Codes are especially impactful. When scanned, they provide instant consumer access to product details. This extends the relationship between the product and the consumer, offering a touchpoint for engagement beyond the point of sale.
Combining operational efficiency and enhanced customer experience makes GS1 QR Codes an essential tool in modern supply chains and retail.
These tools simplify logistics and open growth opportunities by enhancing consumer interaction and fostering brand loyalty.
How to Get a GS1 Company Prefix and Generate Barcodes or QR Codes
To get a company prefix, businesses must apply to their local GS1 branch, which manages the issuance of these unique identifiers.Determine Your Product Range
Before applying, estimate the number of products and variations that need barcodes. This helps determine the appropriate length, as shorter ones allow for more unique identifiers.This initial planning stage is especially important for business owners aiming to ensure their operations run efficiently and remain scalable as they grow.
Register with GS1
The registration process involves providing company details, paying a fee (based on factors like company size and product range), and completing the application.Upon successful registration, businesses are issued a digital GS1 certificate, confirming their ownership of a unique company prefix.
Generate Barcodes or QR Codes
Use your prefix to create barcodes (e.g., EAN-13, UPC) or GS1-compliant QR Codes for your products. QR Tiger’s GS1 QR Code generator is the best platform for this task.Maintenance
You must renew your registration annually or as specified by your local GS1 branch to keep them active.The Importance of the GS1 Prefix in Global Trade
With increasing demand for transparency, businesses must offer more comprehensive product information beyond GTINs. The standardized system of GS1, based on the Company Prefix, guarantees uniform data sharing across platforms, simplifying processes and enhancing compatibility.
Additionally, the GS1 prefix enables identifying and linking product and location data, which can be securely stored and shared with partners.
This capability is crucial for programs that trace products back to their origin. Such programs are vital for recall readiness, particularly in sectors like food and healthcare, where strict regulations exist.
The GS1 Prefix: A Key Part of Global Trade
The GS1 Company Prefix is a cornerstone of global trade, enabling businesses to create standardized product identifiers that simplify tracking, supply chain management, and international compliance.
Whether in retail, healthcare, or e-commerce, this system ensures seamless operations while enhancing product traceability and consumer trust.
By adopting the GS1, businesses can streamline processes, reduce errors, and unlock opportunities for growth in competitive markets.
Register with your local GS1 branch now to ensure your business meets global standards and stays ahead in the market.
DISCLAIMER: We acknowledge that GS1, as well as the materials, proprietary items, and all related patents, copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property (collectively, “intellectual property”) relating to its use, are the property of GS1 Global, and that our use of the same shall be in accordance with the conditions provided by GS1 Global.
