For big industries or companies, a barcode isn't just a product identifier, it’s much more than that. Everything moves at such a fast pace that there's simply no time to manually fetch data for each product. Every barcode is highly unique and can carry important information like product number, batch ID, location code, inventory levels, and pricing, making the entire process much easier.

However, depending on your industry, the type of barcode registration you need may vary. That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this blog. To register a barcode, you first need to understand the different types and choose the one that best fits your industry. 

Understand Barcode Registration & Its Purpose 

Barcode registration means giving your product a unique number code and registering that code in an official database.

This helps when someone buys a product like a dress or a makeup item, and the barcode is scanned at Walmart, Flipkart, or any store or warehouse; all the product details instantly appear, such as the product name, price, brand name, stock availability, and product ID for tracking. It makes billing and inventory updates faster

Different Types of Barcodes

Each industry uses different types of barcodes because every industry has its own specific needs and requirements. So, below are the major barcode types and their ideal use cases:

UPC (Universal Product Code)

• 12-digit numeric barcode

• Widely used in U.S. and Canadian retail stores

EAN (European Article Number)

• 13-digit (or 8-digit for smaller items)

• Standard for global retail outside North America

Code 128

• Compact, alphanumeric format

• Ideal for inventory, shipping, and logistics

QR Code (Quick Response Code)

• 2D barcode that stores URLS, text, or digital content

• Used in marketing, payments, and contactless sharing

ITF-14 (Interleaved Two of Five)

• Numeric-only barcode for outer cartons

• Durable and used for bulk packaging and shipping

Code 39

• Alphanumeric

• Common in military, automotive, and healthcare sectors

Data Matrix

• 2D barcode that fits on tiny items

• Common in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace

PDF417

• Stacked linear barcode

• Used for IDs, driver’s licenses, transport tickets

ISBN / ISSN / ISMN

•  Used for books (ISBN), magazines (ISSN), and music (ISMN)

•  Encoded within an EAN-13 structure

Industry-Wise Barcode Suggestions

To register a barcode suitable for your industry, check this out! 

Each of these barcodes has its strengths depending on size, readability, and the data encoded

How to Register a Barcode?

Once you've chosen the right type as per your industry, follow these steps below:

• Go to the GS1 authority or GS1 India's website: The official international organisation that issues barcodes is called GS1.

• You will receive a unique company prefix for your business 

• Now, assign numbers to your products and create unique identifiers for each SKU.

• Generate and print barcodes using the barcode software

• Lastly, register your barcode details online and make sure your barcode is listed in verified databases like GEPIR for validation.

Conclusion 

Barcodes have become essential for modern businesses. With just one scan, you can access product info like price, inventory, color, size, and quantity, making everything easily trackable. We understand that barcode registration can feel tricky, which is why E-Startup India is here to help. We offer complete online barcode registration services. From company formation and GST registration to barcode, AD code, and trademark registration, we’ve helped countless clients set up their businesses smoothly. We are ready to do the same for you, all online.

FAQs

How many types of barcodes are there?

There are 100+ types of barcodes, but the most widely used are the ones that we’ve discussed above. 

Which type of barcode is used in India?

The internationally used barcode (including India ) is EAN-13 (European Article Number-13)

What is a GS1 barcode?

A GS1 barcode is a globally recognised, issued by GS1, a non-profit organization that develops and maintains supply chain standards across industries.

How are barcodes registered?

By acquiring a GS1 company prefix and creating distinct product codes via the GS1 portal, barcodes can be registered.

Do I need a barcode for each product variant?

Yes. Every variant (size, color, flavor, etc) requires a separate barcode.

Can I generate a free barcode online?

You can generate barcodes, but they won’t be registered or accepted by major retailers unless issued via GS1.

What are the Benefits of GS1 Barcodes?

• Accepted by major marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart

• Makes inventory and supply chain management easier

• Compatible with retail billing systems

• Easy to scale as your product list grows

• Helps build product authenticity and brand trust

What is the format of the EAN-13 Barcode?

EIN-13 consists of 13 digits, and it is used worldwide to identify products. 

What are EAN & UPC?

The main difference between them is that EAN is used globally, while UPC is mainly used in the US and Canada.

Does a Barcode expire? 

No, it doesn't expire. However, if you've registered with GS1, you might renew the license or its subscription.