How to Get a Bar Code Number

Each line on a barcode carries data and must be printed carefully for accuracy.

On June 26, 1974 in Troy, Ohio, a pack of chewing gum was the first item bought using a scanned UPC bar code. The idea stuck, and now bar codes are printed on almost everything you buy in a store. They allow companies to restock stores more quickly and keep the products you want available. To get a bar code for your company, you must apply through GS1, an international non-profit organization that manages bar code standards.

Things You'll Need

• Application forms
• Method of payment

Instructions

1. Contact a GS1 member organization to get a GS1 company prefix. A list of member locations is available on the GS1 website (www.gs1.org). The company prefix is required on all bar codes you create and is a unique identifier for your company.

2. Fill out and complete the Partner Connection application to GS1. Your products and gross annual sales revenue are the basis for your membership fee. Include your method of payment, and send the application to GS1 for review.

3. Access the Data Driver tool to create and print a bar code based on your product and packaging types. Follow each Data Driver tool steps to create UPC and other types of bar codes.

Tips & Warnings

• Find applications for your smartphone to scan bar codes in the store for price comparisons or scan books on your shelves to catalog them.

• Misprinted bar codes can lead to incorrect information upon scanning. Your bar code requires a quality check to ensure precise printing.

References

• GS1 US: If You Need a UPC Barcode
• Barcoding: Barcode History

Resources

• GS1: Home page