GS1 basics
GS1 barcodes and GTINs, without the fog.
Barqode can create the barcode image, but it does not issue official retail product numbers. If you are selling through stores, distributors or marketplaces, the number itself often needs to come from GS1.
A barcode is the symbol
The black bars, spaces or square modules are the scannable artwork. Barqode creates that artwork from the data you enter.
A GTIN is the product number
For retail products, the number under an EAN or UPC barcode is usually a GTIN. It identifies the product in stores, marketplaces and supply chains.
GS1 issues official numbers
If a retailer or marketplace asks for an official product barcode, they usually mean a GS1 GTIN assigned to your company or product.
Common GS1-related barcode formats
GS1 describes EAN/UPC as the familiar retail barcode family, and GS1 support material notes that GTINs can be encoded in different barcode symbols depending on where they will be scanned.
EAN-13 / GTIN-13
A 13 digit product identifier widely used outside North America and on international retail packaging.
Open related generatorUPC-A / GTIN-12
A 12 digit product identifier commonly used in North America.
Open related generatorITF-14 / GTIN-14
Often used for cases, cartons and packaging scanned in warehouses or distribution.
Open related generatorGS1 DataMatrix and GS1 QR
Can carry product identifiers plus extra attributes such as batch, serial or expiry data when used with GS1 syntax.
Open related generatorCan Barqode give me an official GS1 barcode number?
No. Barqode generates barcode artwork. Official GS1 GTINs are issued by GS1 member organisations.
Can I still test with my own numbers?
Yes, you can generate test artwork from valid barcode data. For products sold through retailers or marketplaces, make sure the number is properly assigned.
Is EAN the same as GTIN?
EAN-13 is the barcode format. GTIN-13 is the product identifier encoded in it. In everyday use people often say EAN when they mean the retail product number.