Helpful Barcode Resources From the GS1Website
GS1, a non-profit agency headquartered in Brussels and with member organizations in over 100 countries, maintains the most widely used supply chain standards system in the world. Their primary goals include designing and implementing global standards and solutions, and improving the effectiveness of supply and demand chains the world over.
Standards improve the accuracy of data within the supply chain and maximize profitability for businesses, large and small. From grocery stores and supermarkets using new bar code technology to enhance food safety by providing more information about the products (even on very small items) to more mature RFID tags and readers working to reduce counterfeiting and medical errors, uniform standards make things run more smoothly.
And the GS1 system of standards is the product of over 30 years of experience across multiple sectors and industries. GS1 lays the foundation for clear, understandable exchanges between companies, bringing together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, hospitals, transporters, customs organizations, software developers, and local and international regulatory agencies.
Listed below are links to some helpful resources on the GS1 website.
When your business is ready to start creating and using bar codes, follow these 10 steps to ensure your bar codes meet the worldwide standard. Click on the name of your country and the steps will be customized for you.
Stumped on bar code terminology? Need to comply with a trading partner's request? Search the Frequently Asked Questions for both basic and more advanced information on bar codes.
Questions about which type of bar code best fits your business application? This bar code gallery gives technical details on the six basic types and shows multiple images of each.
Need more information about the nine identification keys (GTIN, GLN, etc) used to identify objects and other components in the supply chain? This page has clickable links to each key, where you'll find specifics on creating the data structure.
Want more in depth guidelines about the rules for Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) allocation? Click here for links to specifications and best practices.
Use the Check Digit Calculator to confirm that your bar codes read accurately. The page has automated calculators for GTIN and SSCC formats and also information on how to perform a manual check.
Need some definitions? This searchable glossary is an A to Z reference for common bar code industry terms.
Mobile phone use is exploding worldwide and smart phones can now interact with bar codes and read RFID tags. Download white papers focused on choosing the right bar codes for mobile commerce, and strategies for getting the in-store environment ready for mobile.
Do you have a bar code (GTIN), a container code (SSCC), or a Global Location Number (GLN) that belongs to a GS1 member company? Use the Global Electronic Party Information Registry (GEPIR) to locate basic contact information for the company.
Industry sectors such as retail, healthcare, transport and logistics, consumer electronics, defense, and various collaborative groups benefit from improved supply chain efficiencies. Learn more about the latest industry engagement strategies used within your field.
Click here for the GS1 GTIN Validation Guide
Check out YouTube video from GS1:
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