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Barcode Registration

NSC India > Barcode Registration
Barcode Registration in India – Apply for GS1 Barcode Online

Barcode Registration is the process of obtaining authorised product identification numbers that can be used to identify and track products across retail stores, e-commerce platforms, distributors and supply chains. In India, businesses can obtain standardised GS1 barcodes through GS1 India, the authorised organisation for allocation of GS1 identification numbers in India.

A GS1 barcode provides a unique identification number for a product and helps businesses manage product information, inventory, product listings and supply-chain operations. GS1 India provides GTINs with the 890 prefix for Indian products.

NSC India provides professional assistance for barcode registration, documentation, application preparation, online filing and related support for businesses looking to obtain GS1 barcodes.

What is Barcode Registration?

Barcode Registration is the process through which a business obtains authorised product identification numbers for its products. These identification numbers can be represented as barcodes and scanned at retail points, warehouses, distribution centres and other locations.

A barcode does not simply represent a product’s price. It identifies a particular product or product variant through a unique identification number such as a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number).

Businesses can use GS1 identification standards to create unique product identifiers and manage product information through GS1 systems such as DataKart.

What is a GS1 Barcode?

A GS1 barcode is a barcode based on globally recognised GS1 standards for identifying products and other trade items.

GS1 barcodes help businesses establish standardised product identification throughout the supply chain. They can be used by manufacturers, brand owners, retailers, distributors and online sellers.

In India, GS1 India allocates authorised GS1 identification numbers beginning with 890.

What is a GTIN?

GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number.

A GTIN is a unique identification number assigned to a trade item or product. It allows a product to be uniquely identified throughout the supply chain.

Different products, sizes, flavours, quantities, packaging configurations or variants may require different product identification numbers depending on the applicable GS1 rules.

What is a GCP?

GCP stands for Global Company Prefix.

A GCP is allocated to a registered GS1 member organisation and provides the foundation for creating unique GTINs for products.

After successful registration, GS1 India provides the applicable company prefix/GCP and access to its product-information systems.

Who Needs Barcode Registration?

Barcode registration may be useful for businesses that manufacture, market, distribute or sell products through organised retail or online marketplaces.

It may be relevant for:

  • Manufacturers

  • Brand owners

  • Private-label businesses

  • Product-based startups

  • FMCG companies

  • Food manufacturers

  • Cosmetic companies

  • Pharmaceutical and healthcare businesses

  • Garment manufacturers

  • Electronics businesses

  • Consumer goods companies

  • Exporters

  • Importers

  • Retail suppliers

  • E-commerce sellers

  • Businesses supplying products to supermarkets and organised retailers

The exact barcode requirement depends on the products, sales channels and business model.

Why Do Businesses Need Barcodes?

Barcodes provide a standardised way of identifying products and can simplify product handling throughout the supply chain.

They can help businesses with:

  • Product identification

  • Inventory management

  • Retail scanning

  • Warehouse management

  • Product listing

  • Supply-chain operations

  • Distribution

  • Product traceability

  • Data management

  • E-commerce operations

GS1 India notes that standardised GS1 identification supports interoperability, product visibility and supply-chain efficiency.

Benefits of GS1 Barcode Registration
Unique Product Identification

Each qualifying product can be assigned a unique identification number, helping businesses distinguish one product from another.

Retail Compatibility

GS1-standardised barcodes can support product identification across retail and supply-chain environments.

E-Commerce Product Listing

Many online marketplaces use product identifiers such as GTINs for product listings. GS1 India specifically notes the importance of GTINs for online sellers and marketplace listings.

Better Inventory Management

Barcode-based identification can make it easier to scan and manage products throughout inventory operations.

Supply Chain Efficiency

Standardised product identification helps businesses communicate product information consistently between manufacturers, distributors, retailers and other supply-chain participants.

Product Information Management

GS1 India provides access to DataKart, a platform for managing and sharing product information.

Consumer Confidence

Standardised product identification can help businesses establish product authenticity and reliable product information across the supply chain.

GS1 India Barcode Registration

GS1 India is the authorised organisation providing GS1 identification numbers in India. GS1 India states that it is the only organisation in India authorised to issue barcodes beginning with the 890 prefix.

Businesses can apply for GS1 barcode registration through the GS1 India registration process.

Types of GS1 Barcodes

Depending on the business requirement, GS1 standards support different barcode formats and identification systems.

Commonly used formats include:

  • EAN-13

  • UPC

  • ITF-14

  • GS1-128

  • GS1 DataMatrix

  • GS1 QR Code

The appropriate barcode format depends on where and how the product will be identified, scanned or tracked.

EAN-13 Barcode

EAN-13 is a widely used retail barcode format containing 13 digits.

It is commonly used for consumer products sold through retail channels and can be scanned at points of sale.

GS1 India provides EAN/GTIN-based product identification for businesses requiring standardised product barcodes.

GS1-128 Barcode

GS1-128 is designed for applications where additional supply-chain information may need to be encoded using GS1 Application Identifiers.

It can be useful in logistics, warehousing and supply-chain environments.

GS1 India explains that businesses receiving a GCP can use it to generate GTINs and other GS1 identifiers according to the applicable standards.

GS1 QR Code

GS1 standards are also moving towards modern 2D barcode technologies, including GS1 QR Codes.

GS1 India highlights the transition towards 2D barcodes and explains that GS1 QR Codes can support richer product information and digital experiences.

Barcode Registration Eligibility

Businesses and organisations that own or market products may apply for GS1 barcode registration subject to the applicable GS1 India requirements.

The applicant should generally have:

  • A valid business entity

  • Appropriate business documentation

  • PAN

  • Applicable registration proof

  • Product/business information

  • Required financial information

  • Authorised signatory details

  • Bank/payment information

The exact documentation depends on the type of business entity.

Brand Owner Requirement

GS1 India states that only the Brand Owner or an entity authorised by the Brand Owner can apply for barcodes. If a business is doing job work for another brand, the Brand Owner should apply directly for the barcode.

This is an important requirement for manufacturers producing goods under another company’s brand.

Barcode Registration for Proprietorship

A proprietorship business can apply for GS1 barcode registration by providing the applicable business and identity documents.

GS1 India’s current document requirements include the proprietor’s PAN and proof of business status, such as GST/VAT registration where applicable.

Barcode Registration for Partnership Firm

A partnership firm may provide documents such as:

  • PAN

  • GST/VAT registration certificate

  • Partnership Deed

  • Business address details

  • Cancelled cheque

  • Other documents requested during registration

GS1 India specifically lists GST/VAT registration or partnership deed as relevant proof for partnership firms.

Barcode Registration for Private Limited Company

A private limited company may need to provide:

  • Company PAN

  • GST/VAT registration

  • ROC certificate

  • MOA

  • Business details

  • Cancelled cheque

  • Turnover information

  • Other applicable documents

The exact documents should be submitted according to the GS1 India application requirements.

Documents Required for Barcode Registration

The current GS1 India registration information includes the following commonly required documents:

  • PAN Card of the applicant/company

  • Proprietor PAN for proprietorship firms

  • Turnover/sales proof where applicable

  • Request letter on company letterhead

  • Proof of applicant’s business status

  • GST/VAT registration certificate where applicable

  • Partnership Deed for partnership firms

  • ROC certificate/MOA for companies where applicable

  • Registration certificate for other entities

  • Cancelled cheque of the company

  • Other supporting documents as requested

A new company may not be required to provide turnover proof where the requirement is specifically waived for new businesses.

Turnover Proof for Barcode Registration

GS1 India’s current registration information asks for turnover/sales proof for the relevant financial year, while stating that this is not required for a new company.

The applicable turnover category may also affect the registration and subscription fee.

Barcode Registration Process
Step 1 – Determine Barcode Requirement

First determine how many unique products and product variants require identification.

Businesses should consider both their current SKU requirements and expected future product expansion.

Step 2 – Select Barcode Capacity

GS1 India currently provides capacity options including:

  • 100

  • 1,000

  • 10,000

  • 1,00,000 barcodes

The selected capacity should be chosen carefully because GS1 India states that the number of barcodes selected cannot subsequently be changed.

Step 3 – Prepare Documents

Collect PAN, business registration documents, turnover information where applicable, request letter, cancelled cheque and other required documents.

Step 4 – Complete Registration Form

Complete the GS1 India barcode registration form with accurate business information.

Step 5 – Select Subscription Period

Choose the required subscription validity period according to the available options.

Step 6 – Submit Documents

Upload or submit the required documents as instructed during the registration process.

Step 7 – Pay Applicable Fees

Pay the applicable registration fee, subscription fee, security deposit and taxes, as applicable. GS1 India’s current fee structure identifies these as components of the barcode registration fees.

Step 8 – Verification

GS1 India reviews the submitted application, documents and payment.

Step 9 – Receive GCP/Barcode Allocation

After successful processing, the business receives the applicable barcode allocation information and Global Company Prefix.

Step 10 – Manage Product Information

The GCP can be used to access GS1’s product-information systems such as DataKart and manage product information.

How Long Does Barcode Registration Take?

GS1 India states that the registration process usually takes approximately 7–10 working days after submission of the registration form, required documents and fee payment.

Actual processing time may vary depending on document completeness, verification and other circumstances.

Barcode Registration Fees

Barcode registration fees depend on several factors.

The current GS1 India fee structure considers:

  • Annual sales turnover

  • Number of barcodes

  • Subscription period

  • Registration fee

  • Subscription fee

  • Refundable security deposit

  • Applicable taxes

GS1 India currently provides barcode capacities ranging from 100 to 1,00,000 numbers.

Because fees can change, businesses should check the current GS1 India fee calculator before making payment rather than relying on an old fixed fee.

Barcode Subscription Validity

GS1 barcodes are provided under a subscription/licensing arrangement.

The business must renew its GS1 barcode subscription before expiry if it wishes to continue using the assigned GS1 identification numbers. GS1 India specifically advises businesses to renew their subscription on time.

Barcode Renewal

Barcode subscriptions should be renewed before expiry to avoid interruption in barcode usage and related services.

GS1 India states that timely renewal helps businesses maintain:

  • Continued barcode usage

  • DataKart access

  • Product listing continuity

  • Product identification

  • GS1 service access

  • Supply-chain compatibility

What Happens If Barcode Capacity Is Exhausted?

Businesses should estimate their current and future SKU requirements before selecting barcode capacity.

GS1 India states that if the allocated barcode numbers are exhausted, the organisation needs to apply for a new registration for additional barcode capacity.

Can Barcode Numbers Be Changed Later?

The number of barcode capacity selected during registration should be chosen carefully.

GS1 India states that the number of barcodes applied for cannot be changed later, so businesses should consider both existing and expected future product requirements before selecting a capacity.

Barcode for Amazon and E-Commerce

Businesses selling products through online marketplaces may need GTIN/product identifiers for product listings.

GS1 India notes that online sellers commonly need accurate barcodes for marketplace listings and that invalid or unauthorised identifiers can create listing and operational issues.

A GS1 barcode can therefore be useful for businesses selling products through:

  • Amazon

  • E-commerce marketplaces

  • Retail websites

  • Supermarkets

  • Distributors

  • Organised retail chains

Marketplace requirements can vary, so sellers should always check the specific platform’s current product-listing rules.

Barcode for Retail Products

Retailers use barcode scanning to identify products quickly at points of sale and throughout inventory systems.

GS1-standardised identification can help retailers and suppliers maintain consistent product identification and exchange product information efficiently.

Barcode for FMCG Products

FMCG businesses often manage a large number of products, variants, sizes and packaging formats.

GS1 product identification can help FMCG manufacturers and brand owners assign unique identifiers to individual products and manage product data.

Barcode for Food Products

Food manufacturers and packaged-food businesses may use GS1 barcodes for product identification, retail scanning and supply-chain management.

Barcode registration does not replace other food-related licences or approvals such as FSSAI registration or licence.

Barcode for Cosmetics

Cosmetic brands can use standardised product identifiers for retail and e-commerce product listings.

Each product and applicable variant should be assigned identifiers according to GS1 standards.

Barcode registration does not itself constitute a cosmetic manufacturing licence or product approval.

Barcode for Pharmaceutical Products

Pharmaceutical and healthcare businesses may have additional product-identification and regulatory requirements.

GS1 standards can support product identification and traceability, but businesses should separately comply with all applicable pharmaceutical and healthcare regulations.

Barcode for Export Products

GS1 identification standards are designed for global interoperability.

Businesses exporting products can use internationally recognised product identifiers to support supply-chain operations and trading relationships.

GS1 India states that GS1 standards support interoperability and cross-border commerce.

Barcode and Product SKU

A SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is an internal inventory reference used by a business, whereas a GTIN is a standardised product identifier under the GS1 system.

They are not necessarily the same thing.

A business can use its own SKU system internally while using GS1 GTINs for standardised external product identification.

Barcode and QR Code

Traditional retail barcodes such as EAN-13 generally encode a product identifier.

QR codes can store or provide access to significantly more information.

GS1 is also supporting the transition towards 2D barcode technologies, including GS1 QR Codes, for richer product information and digital experiences.

Barcode Registration vs Barcode Generation

Barcode Registration involves obtaining authorised product identification numbers.

Barcode Generation involves creating the graphical barcode representation from the assigned identification number.

Businesses should obtain authorised identifiers first and then generate the barcode according to the applicable GS1 specifications.

Why Use Authorised GS1 Barcodes?

Using an authorised GS1 identification system helps businesses maintain standardised and interoperable product identification.

GS1 India states that it is the authorised organisation in India for GS1 identification numbers beginning with 890.

Businesses should be cautious about purchasing product identifiers from unauthorised sellers or sources that claim to provide GS1 barcodes.

DataKart and GS1 Barcode

DataKart is GS1 India’s product-information platform.

After barcode registration, businesses can use the relevant GCP and DataKart access to manage product information and product identifiers.

Barcode Registration for Brand Owners

Brand owners are responsible for ensuring that their products have the appropriate product identification.

GS1 India states that the Brand Owner or an entity authorised by the Brand Owner can apply for the barcode.

Barcode Registration for Manufacturers

Manufacturers producing their own branded products may apply for GS1 barcodes as the brand owner.

Where a manufacturer is producing products for another company’s brand, the brand owner should generally handle the barcode application according to GS1 India’s requirements.

Barcode Registration for Private Label Products

Private-label businesses that own the brand may need their own GS1 identification numbers for their products.

The applicant should ensure that the entity applying for the barcode is the Brand Owner or is authorised by the Brand Owner.

Barcode Registration for Startups

Startups launching physical products can obtain GS1 barcodes for product identification and retail/e-commerce distribution.

New companies should carefully estimate their future product and SKU requirements before selecting the barcode capacity.

Common Mistakes in Barcode Registration

Businesses should avoid:

  • Selecting insufficient barcode capacity

  • Using incorrect business information

  • Providing incomplete documents

  • Applying without brand-owner authority

  • Choosing unauthorised barcode providers

  • Ignoring future SKU requirements

  • Failing to renew the subscription

  • Using expired barcode subscriptions

  • Entering incorrect product information

  • Confusing SKU with GTIN

Importance of Correct Product Information

A barcode number alone does not automatically create a complete product listing.

Businesses should maintain accurate product information such as:

  • Product name

  • Brand name

  • Product description

  • Net quantity

  • Product category

  • Packaging information

  • Manufacturer information

  • Other applicable attributes

GS1 India’s DataKart system supports the management and sharing of product information.

Barcode Compliance

Businesses should ensure that their GS1 identification numbers remain valid and are used according to the applicable GS1 terms and standards.

GS1 India’s current terms state that the GS1 identification key is valid for the specified subscription term and must be renewed for continued use.

How NSC India Can Help With Barcode Registration

NSC India provides professional assistance for businesses seeking barcode registration.

Our services may include:

  • Barcode registration guidance

  • Eligibility assessment

  • Document checklist

  • Application preparation

  • GS1 registration assistance

  • Business information verification

  • Barcode capacity guidance

  • Online application assistance

  • Fee and subscription guidance

  • GCP registration support

  • DataKart-related guidance

  • Barcode renewal assistance

  • General product-identification support

Why Choose NSC India?
Professional Assistance

We help businesses understand the barcode registration requirements and application process.

Documentation Support

Our team helps organise the required business documents before submission.

Application Assistance

We assist with preparing and submitting the barcode registration application.

Business-Friendly Process

Our process is designed to make barcode registration simpler for manufacturers, brand owners, startups and product-based businesses.

End-to-End Guidance

From understanding barcode requirements to application submission and registration support, NSC India can assist throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Barcode Registration?

Barcode Registration is the process of obtaining authorised product identification numbers that can be represented as barcodes and used for product identification.

Who issues GS1 barcodes in India?

GS1 India is the authorised organisation for issuing GS1 identification numbers in India, including numbers beginning with the 890 prefix.

What is GTIN?

GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number. It is a unique identification number used to identify trade items/products.

What is GCP?

GCP stands for Global Company Prefix. It provides the basis for creating unique GTINs for products.

Is barcode registration mandatory for every product?

Not every product or business is subject to the same barcode requirement. The need for a barcode depends on the product, sales channel, retailer, marketplace and applicable requirements.

Can I get a barcode for Amazon?

Businesses selling products on online marketplaces may need GTINs/barcodes for product listings. Marketplace requirements vary, so the seller should check the current requirements of the particular platform.

Can a startup apply for a barcode?

Yes. A startup selling physical products can apply for GS1 barcode registration if it meets the applicable requirements.

Can a proprietorship apply for barcode registration?

Yes. Proprietorship firms can apply subject to the applicable GS1 India documentation requirements.

Can a partnership firm apply?

Yes. Partnership firms can apply and may need to provide documents such as GST/VAT registration and partnership deed.

Can a private limited company apply?

Yes. Private and public limited companies can apply subject to the applicable requirements and supporting documents.

What documents are required for barcode registration?

Common documents include PAN, business registration proof, GST/VAT registration where applicable, turnover proof where required, request letter and cancelled cheque.

How many barcodes can I register?

GS1 India currently provides capacity options of 100, 1,000, 10,000 and 1,00,000 barcode numbers.

Can I change the number of barcodes later?

GS1 India states that the number of barcodes selected cannot be changed later, so businesses should consider their future requirements before applying.

How long does barcode registration take?

GS1 India states that registration usually takes 7–10 working days after submission of the required application, documents and fee payment.

Is barcode registration renewable?

Yes. GS1 barcodes are provided under a subscription arrangement and the subscription needs to be renewed for continued use.

What happens if my barcode subscription expires?

Businesses should renew before expiry. Continued use of GS1 identification after expiry can violate the applicable licence terms.

What is DataKart?

DataKart is GS1 India’s platform for managing and sharing product information associated with GS1 identification.

Is an EAN-13 barcode the same as a GTIN?

No. A GTIN is a product identification number, while EAN-13 is a barcode format used to represent a 13-digit GTIN.

Is SKU the same as barcode?

No. SKU is generally an internal inventory reference, while a GS1 GTIN is a standardised product identifier.

Can a manufacturer apply for barcode registration?

Yes, if the manufacturer is the Brand Owner or is appropriately authorised by the Brand Owner.

Can I buy a GS1 barcode from an agent?

Businesses should use the authorised GS1 India registration process. GS1 India specifically states that it does not appoint or promote facilitators, intermediaries or agents for allocation of GS1 barcode numbers.

Does barcode registration provide a trademark?

No. Barcode registration and trademark registration are separate processes.

Does barcode registration provide GST registration?

No. GST registration and barcode registration are separate business compliances.

Does barcode registration replace FSSAI registration?

No. Food businesses must separately comply with applicable FSSAI requirements.

Can NSC India help with barcode registration?

Yes. NSC India can assist with barcode registration documentation, application preparation, filing guidance and related support.

Get Barcode Registration Assistance from NSC India

Do you manufacture or sell products and need GS1 Barcode Registration?

NSC India can assist with the barcode registration process, documentation, application preparation and related support for manufacturers, brand owners, startups, exporters and product-based businesses.

Apply for Barcode Registration with NSC India today.