Launching a New Product? Here’s How to Get a Barcode Number

Author : quick barcode | Published On : 30 Oct 2026

You've gathered materials, designed the packaging, and set the price. There's only one thing left and someone asks you for the barcode number, leaving the room dead silent. Not to worry; it's a simple yet crucial step and here's exactly how you can get one.

What Information Does a Barcode Number Carry?

Hardly any of your personal information. It is a unique number, generally 13 digits long (in India, it is EAN 13), with the last digit being a check digit which confirms the validity of the number. A scanner reads the code and fetches the product's price and quantity. In North America, the codes are 12 digits long, and are usually found on packages.

Do I Need a Barcode Number Before Launching the Product?

In most cases, yes. Retail stores require you to have a barcode so that their scanners can read the product. Online marketplaces also require you to have a barcode number before you can put up your product for sale. Though they aren't mandatory in India, it will be challenging to sell your product without one. It is best that you get it before you print your packaging, and not the other way around.

Should I Opt for GS1 India or a Private Provider?

As you look for barcode for new product and packaging options, you will find two different types of providers offering their services. One type offers GS1 India authorized numbers, whereas the other provides private numbers that aren't recognized by GS1 India. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, which we have discussed below.

What Does an Official Barcode Number Provider Offer?

GS1 India is the official supplier for barcode numbers in India. Their numbers begin with 890. You will have to register on their website, and select a package depending on how many barcode numbers you'll need for your business. Once you have chosen a package, you can select your company prefix. The numbers offered by GS1 India are well-recognized by retailers and marketplaces. They may charge higher, but you won't have to worry about yearly renewals.

What Does a Private Provider Offer?

Certain authorized private providers sell EAN 13 numbers at a lower price, but they offer print-ready barcode images, a GST invoice, and no annual renewal. Many small-scale businesses prefer these providers because they offer cheaper rates. The numbers offered by them, however, aren't authorized by GS1 India, and begin with a different prefix. GS1 India recommends that you avoid using third-party numbers because they might cause problems with GS1-compliant scanners and users. Check the policies of your chosen provider and marketplace before making a decision.

How Can I Print and Display the Barcode?

When resizing the image, make sure you maintain the ratio, or else your scanner might not be able to read the code. Print it on a contrasting color (white is ideal) and leave a small space on the left and right side of the barcode. After printing a sample label, make sure you scan it with your phone before ordering large quantities. Make sure the code is printed at the back of the package, and not on a curved surface.

A Quick Recap

If you plan on selling your product on a large scale, or to retailers and e-commerce stores, it is best that you select the official route. If you are planning on starting small, and perhaps testing the waters, then a private number might suffice, depending on whether your sales channel accepts them. Ask the marketplace about their requirements, and save yourself a ton of hassle. Either way, make sure you don't use the same number for two different products. Every product must have a unique number. Write this down, and make sure you don't forget it.

Final Thoughts

Though getting a barcode number might seem like an unexciting task, it opens up a slew of opportunities for your product. Choose your provider, buy your number, print your barcode, and make sure everything is in order before you launch. Do all this, and you'll be one step closer to selling your product online and in local stores. We wish you the very best in your endeavor!