If you're launching a product, you’ve probably asked yourself this: “Do I need a barcode?” The short answer is yes. Without it, your product may never reach the hands of customers through major retailers or online platforms, let alone make it past the warehouse.

Barcodes aren’t just a string of parallel lines. They're your product’s digital passport. They simplify inventory tracking, prevent stock mismatches, and make your product retail-ready. However, for many small business owners and first-time sellers, obtaining a barcode can seem confusing, technical, and overly complicated. Finding the best way to get started with barcodes can streamline this process significantly.

This blog clears that up. In just five simple steps, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get a barcode — from understanding what kind you need to registering it the right way. Whether you plan to sell in stores, on online marketplaces like Amazon, or both, this guide helps you avoid common mistakes and ensures your product is accepted wherever you choose to sell.

Understanding the Basics of Product Barcoding

Before diving into how to obtain a barcode, it’s essential to understand what barcodes do and why they're a crucial part of selling products, whether in-store or online. From tracking inventory to improving your inventory turnover ratio and speeding up checkout, barcodes make operations smoother for everyone involved.

What is a Barcode and Why is it Essential?

Barcodes are visual symbols—usually made up of a series of vertical lines or patterns—that hold essential and much information about different barcodes for your product. When scanned, they allow systems to identify and retrieve data instantly.

Here’s why they matter:

• Automate checkout: Barcodes enable fast and error-free point-of-sale transactions by quickly retrieving product details and prices.

• Inventory control: They help businesses monitor stock levels, track items across warehouses, and reduce losses or duplication.

• Efficient supply chain management: Barcodes simplify shipping, receiving, and product movement throughout the supply chain.

• Retail compliance: Most retailers and eCommerce platforms require barcodes for smooth integration into their systems.

• Professional product identification: A barcode adds legitimacy to your product and signals that it’s ready for retail shelves.

Different Types of Barcodes Used for Products

Not all barcodes are the same. The right one depends on where and how your product will be sold or used.

• UPC (Universal Product Code): It is commonly used in North America, especially in retail. It is ideal for selling in supermarkets, convenience stores, and retail chains.

• EAN (European Article Number): Similar to UPC, it is more widely accepted outside North America and required by many international retailers.

• QR Code (Quick Response Code): The square-shaped barcode stores more data than a traditional barcode, making it ideal for digital marketing, linking to websites, providing instructions, or promoting offers.

• Data Matrix Code: Compact and powerful. Used in logistics, electronics, and manufacturing to hold large amounts of data in small spaces, and are often scanned in industrial environments.

Each barcode type serves a specific purpose. Choosing the right one ensures your product is readable, trackable, and accepted by your intended sales channels.

Also, read our "Thermal Label Printers for Better Industrial Barcodes" blog to find high-performance printers that ensure accuracy and durability in demanding environments.

5 Steps to Implement Barcodes for Products

Step 1: Determine the Number of Barcodes Needed

Single Product vs. Multiple Product Lines

• Each unique product variation (size, colour, flavour, etc.) needs a separate barcode.

• Example: A shampoo sold in 200ml, 500ml, and 1L sizes requires three barcodes.

• The same applies to items available in different colours or styles.

• Estimating the number of barcodes helps with proper planning and inventory tracking.

• It helps avoid duplication and ensures each product is uniquely identifiable.

Step 2: Apply for a GS1 Company Prefix

The Role of GS1 in Barcoding

GS1 is the global organization that sets standards for product identification in Canada. It manages the assignment of unique identifiers called Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), which serve as the basis for barcodes worldwide. Using GS1 barcodes ensures peace of mind that your products will be recognized and accepted by retailers and retail stores in supply chains worldwide.

Process of Getting a GS1 Company Prefix

• Visit your local GS1 member organization's website to submit your application.

• Submit basic company information (name, contact, number of products, etc.).

• Choose the number of barcodes you need based on your product range.

• Pay a registration fee, which varies based on company size and the number of barcodes.

• Receive a unique GS1 Company Prefix, which becomes part of all your product barcodes.

Step 3: Generate Your Barcodes

Tools and Software for Generating Barcodes

• Use barcode generation software to create scannable codes.

• Recommended tools:

  • BarTender – popular for generating barcodes within label design files.

  • NiceLabel – offers simple barcode creation and label printing.

  • Online barcode generators – suitable for small quantities or quick use.

• BarTender enables you to combine design and barcode generation in a single step, making it ideal for creating product labels.

• Save barcodes in printable formats, such as PNG, JPEG, or PDF, for easy use.

Step 4: Test Barcode Functionality

Ensuring Scannability across Different Platforms

• Always test barcodes before mass printing.

• Use handheld scanners and mobile apps to verify that the barcode is read correctly.

• Test across different lighting conditions and devices.

• Watch for these common issues:

  • There is a low contrast between the barcode and the background.

  • Blurred or stretched images.

  • Barcode placed on curved or uneven surfaces.

• Resolving these issues promptly ensures retail compliance and seamless scanning during checkout or shipping.

Step 5: Integrate Barcodes into Product Packaging

Placement and Sizing Guidelines

• Place barcodes on flat, visible areas of the packaging.

• Best location: bottom-right corner or the back of the package.

• Maintain a “quiet zone” (white space) around the barcode for better scanning.

• Avoid placing barcodes too close to the edges or folds of the packaging.

• Ensure barcode size matches GS1 standards for readability.

Legal and Retail Compliance for Barcoding

• Check retailer-specific rules (e.g., Amazon requires FNSKU barcodes for fulfillment).

• Some platforms accept manufacturer barcodes, while others demand custom labels.

• International sales may have additional barcode formats or label requirements.

• Following these rules helps prevent shipment rejections and improves acceptance in stores and warehouses.

Barcode Printing Made Easy: Compare Top Printers for Product Labeling Success

Choosing the right type of barcode printer can make a massive difference in labelling accuracy, speed, and compliance. Whether you're labelling products in a warehouse or preparing retail tags, the right device ensures professional output and hassle-free integration. Below is a comparison of three top-performing printers, each suited for different business needs.

1. Zebra ZQ61-HUWA004-00

Designed for mobility and durability, the Zebra ZQ61 is a top choice for teams who need fast, reliable barcode printing on the move. Whether you’re managing inventory in a warehouse or issuing labels in the field, this rugged printer delivers consistent performance wherever work takes you.

Pros:

• Portable and rugged for on-the-go barcode printing

• Lightweight and easy to carry for mobile staff.

• Built to withstand drops, dust, and harsh environments.

• Supports multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

• Seamlessly integrates with mobile devices and warehouse systems.

• Fast print speeds are suitable for high-demand tasks.

Cons:

• Smaller media capacity compared to desktop models

• Requires frequent media reloads during large tasks.

• It is not ideal for high-volume stationary printing.

• Limited label size options.

• Slightly higher cost compared to entry-level desktop printers.

• You may need additional accessories, such as chargers and mounts, for full functionality.

Use Case:

Ideal for warehouse staff, field workers, and mobile point-of-sale (POS) users.

Key Feature:

• Wireless mobile printing with long battery life

• Prints from anywhere without a fixed workstation.

• Long battery life supports full-day operations.

• Real-time printing via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

• Compatible with iOS and Android devices.

• A durable build enhances reliability in fast-paced settings.

2. Zebra ZD611d-HC Barcode Label Printer

Engineered for the demands of healthcare environments, the ZD611d-HC is a compact, sterile-friendly printer that fits seamlessly into labs, hospitals, and cleanrooms. Its antimicrobial housing and reliable performance make it ideal for printing wristbands, specimen labels, and patient IDs.

Pros:

• Healthcare-grade with antimicrobial housing

• Designed with materials that inhibit bacterial growth.

• Certified for use in sterile environments.

• Supports precise, scannable barcodes for patient tracking.

• Compact enough for space-restricted areas.

• Offers easy media loading and calibration.

Cons:

• Limited to direct thermal printing (no thermal transfer)

• Not suitable for labels needing long-term durability.

• It may fade over time in sunlight or heat.

• Requires specific thermal label media.

• Higher operating costs due to label consumption.

• Limited flexibility in label materials.

Use Case:

Designed for hospitals, labs, and sterile environments.

Key Feature:

• Compact design with healthcare-certified materials

• The space-saving footprint for busy medical counters.

• Resistant to frequent cleaning and disinfectants.

• Printhead and components designed for clean environments.

• Low-noise operation is ideal for quiet medical settings.

• Fast, accurate printing for wristbands, vials, and test samples.

3. Godex RT230i 2" Thermal Transfer Barcode Printer

For businesses that need high-quality, compact barcode printing without breaking the budget, the Godex RT230i hits the mark. Perfect for retail counters or jewelry stores, it combines high resolution and user-friendly features in a small footprint.

Pros:

• Affordable and precise with 300 dpi resolution

• Budget-friendly without compromising print quality.

• Produces sharp, high-resolution barcodes and text.

• It is ideal for detailed tags like jewelry or electronics.

• Offers both thermal transfer and direct thermal modes.

• Comes with a color LCD for easy navigation.

Cons:

• Limited label width (2 inches max)

• Not suitable for large-format labels.

• It may not meet the needs of bulk shipping labels.

• Requires narrow label rolls, which might need special ordering.

• Less versatile for industrial-scale tasks.

• Media and ribbon changes may be more frequent.

Use Case:

Great for retail, jewelry tags, and small product labels.

Key Feature:

• High-resolution printing with a user-friendly LCD interface

• 300 dpi ensures crisp, scannable output for tiny labels.

• LCD screen simplifies setup and printer control.

• Supports USB, Ethernet, and serial connections.

• Intuitive software integration for quick label design.

• Perfect for high-precision labelling tasks.

From Barcode File to Printed Label—DuraFast Has Everything You Need

A barcode isn’t just a black-and-white pattern—it’s your product’s identity in every retail aisle, warehouse, and checkout counter. DuraFast Label Printers transform your barcode files into sharp, scannable labels that meet industry standards and withstand real-world use. From serial numbers to SKU tags and packaging labels, every print is precise, durable, and compliant. Built to handle high volumes and a wide range of materials, DuraFast printers help you streamline operations without compromising quality. Don’t just print barcodes—print with confidence, speed, and clarity. Talk to us today and label smarter with DuraFast.

Conclusion

Getting a barcode system for your product doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the basics, determining how many barcodes you need, registering with GS1, generating your codes, testing them, and integrating them properly into your packaging, you set your product up for smooth sales and inventory management. Using reliable tools like DuraFast Label Printers can simplify the printing process and ensure your barcodes are clear, durable, and compliant with retail standards. Follow these easy steps to take control of your product labeling and boost your business’s efficiency and professionalism—barcode success is just five steps away!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get a barcode for a small business?

Small businesses can register with GS1 for a company prefix and GTINs, which are a great option that most retailers accept. For fewer products, you can buy single-use barcodes from GS1 resellers or use a registered service provider for online tools—just ensure they meet retailer requirements.

What is the cost of obtaining a barcode?

GS1 charges a setup fee plus an annual renewal fee, usually starting around $250–$750. Our pricing structure is such that barcode resellers offer one-time fees per code without renewals, but not all retailers accept them. Choose based on how many barcodes you need and where you plan to sell.

Can I create my own barcodes?

You can generate unique barcode images using free or paid tools, but without a GS1-issued GTIN, they won’t be universally recognized. Major retailers usually require GS1-verified codes, so DIY barcodes are risky for serious retail or marketplace listings.

Are barcodes required for selling online?

Yes. Most platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Shopify require a valid GTIN to list products. Barcodes help track items, prevent duplicates, and ensure product accuracy across systems. Without one, your product may be rejected or incorrectly listed.

What are GTINs and their significance?

GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers) are unique identifiers encoded in barcodes that help track and manage products, including raw materials, worldwide, along with a check digit to enhance their accuracy. They ensure consistency across retailers, inventory systems, and marketplaces. A valid GTIN is crucial for accurate listing, scanning, and product recognition.