Introduction

Barcodes are machine readable representations of data presented in either 1D or 2D formats. They can be scanned using laser or image-based technology to decode information on products. 1D formats are made up of black and white parallel lines with spaces at each end, called ‘quiet zones’, whereas 2D formats are patterns of squares and dots arranged in a grid format. Depending on the industry and business requirements, businesses can select either of the formats to encode information on products they are selling in the market. 

The barcode numbers play a crucial role in streamlining the supply chain and fostering transparency and accountability in the process. In this blog you will learn how barcodes help businesses and their future trends. 

What Are the Different Types of Barcode Symbologies? 

There are two types of barcode number symbologies European Article Number (EAN) and Universal Product Code (UPC), both symbologies fall under the umbrella of Global Trade Identification Number (GTIN). 

Here are the different types of 1D and 2D barcodes used currently to encode information. 

Linear Barcodes 

EAN-13 (GTIN-13) – EAN-13 is a 13-digit barcode number, also termed as GTIN-13. It is internationally accepted and used to identify products easily. 

EAN-8 (GTIN-8) – EAN-8 is a 8-digit barcode number, also termed as GTIN-8. It is used on smaller packages where space is limited, such as cosmetics. 

UPC-A (GTIN-12) – UPC symbology is used predominantly in North America. UPC-A also similar to EAN-13 is used on packages to identify them in the market. Companies that want to manufacture products in the USA will have to get UPC barcodes. 

UPC-E – UPC-E is similar to EAN-8 and is used to identify and store information on smaller packages. It has 8-digits due to space constraints. 

GS1-128 – GS1-128 barcode is specifically applied in the logistics industry. It can encode all GS1 keys and attributes, showing information on the expiry date, manufacturing date, lot number and so on with the help of Application Identifiers (AI). 

ITF-14 – When barcode needs to be printed on a corrugated box and only GTIN is required, then ITF-14 is used. It is specifically used in the logistics industry. 

2-Dimensional Barcodes 

GS1 DataMatrix Barcode – Primarily used in the healthcare sector, DataMatrix barcode meets the Unique Device Identification (UDI) requirements of medical products. It avoids confusion and is the absolute carrier for product identification in healthcare, providing product information electronically. 

QR Code – QR code is a type of 2D format that can encode large amounts of information in lesser space. It can directly connect the consumers with the brand with a scan through smart phones. QR codes use data in the GS1 Digital Link URI format, and are multifunctional. They can be scanned at point-of-sale while also directing consumers to the brand’s website. 

Benefits of Barcodes to Businesses

Barcode number details are instrumental in enhancing product identification in the domestic and international markets. Barcodes provides detailed information on each product which empowers not only businesses but also consumers in making informed purchase decisions. Find below some benefits as a business you can enjoy if you get registered with barcodes – 

Unique Global Product Identification – With barcodes your products can be uniquely identified globally, which means every variant of your product will be easily differentiated in the supply chain reducing confusions. This will also mitigate counterfeit events and promote a safe supply chain for your products. 

Product Recalls – Barcodes can facilitate targeted product recalls. Barcodes promote seamless information flow among the supply chain partners about the goods, which ultimately ensure quicker identification and recall of contaminated or damaged product batches. 

Inventory Management and Visibility – For businesses, ensuring sufficient product inventory is crucial to maintaining business goodwill and consumer trust. Barcodes facilitate better inventory management by following the principle of Fist In, FIrst Out (FIFO). With barcodes, businesses will have greater inventory visibility which helps them in avoiding situations of overstocking or stock outs. 

Elevate Consumer Trust – When information about products is accessible to all it gradually increases customer trust. Customers can scan barcodes, in case of 2D, or type the GTIN in the Smart Consumer app to validate the product details and make an informed purchase.  

Future Trends in Barcode Technology 

Barcodes are paving the way to an advanced future, powering benefits such as more information, enhanced data security, website URL and quick scanning, 2D barcodes will gain more prominence in the future. With the healthcare industry already shifting to the adoption of 2D barcodes, it is expected in near future several other industries, including retail, will apply 2D barcodes. 2D barcodes are the future of barcode technology and will create endless opportunities for all. As per the GS1 US Consumer Pulse Survey, 79% consumers will prefer purchasing products with scannable barcodes and 77% consumers believe product information is critical in making purchase decisions. 2D barcodes will make quick scanning and access to more information possible in the near future. GS1 is working on the goal to have all retailers read 2D barcode technology at POS, by the end of 2027. 

Conclusion

Barcode number details play an important role in ensuring quicker product identification, effective inventory management and also facilitate targeted product recalls. Barcodes are widely accepted and used by all manufacturers to elevate their process efficiency and achieve transparency in the supply chain. Please note, GS1 is the only authority in India which is authorised to issue barcodes to Indian companies, no other company can promote accurate barcode number details other than GS1. To register for barcodes for your products, simply visit their Register for barcodes page.