Barcodes are a crucial component of supply chain management...
Many major online resellers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target only accept GS1 barcodes for product listings. These companies require GS1 barcodes to ensure the accuracy and consistency of product identification and tracking throughout the supply chain. The use of GS1 barcodes helps to prevent errors, reduce costs, and improve efficiency in the supply chain. Therefore, if you are planning to sell products through these major online resellers, it is important to obtain a GS1 barcode for each of your products.
Barcodes allow for the automated tracking and identification of products as they move through various stages of production, warehousing, transportation, and sales. There are various types of barcodes in use today, but two of the most commonly used are GS1 barcodes and non-GS1 barcodes. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between these two types of barcodes.
What are GS1 Barcodes?
GS1 is a not-for-profit organization that provides global standards for the identification, communication, and exchange of goods and services. GS1 barcodes are unique identification codes that are assigned by the organization to each product, which can be used to track and trace products throughout the supply chain. These barcodes are widely used by retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers around the world and are recognized as a global standard.
GS1 barcodes use a 13-digit number to uniquely identify each product, which is comprised of a company prefix, an item reference, and a check digit. The company prefix identifies the manufacturer or supplier of the product, while the item reference identifies the specific product. The check digit is used to verify the accuracy of the barcode.
What are Non-GS1 Barcodes?
Non-GS1 barcodes, also known as proprietary barcodes, are identification codes that are not issued by the GS1 organization. These barcodes are developed and used by individual companies to track their products and are not recognized as a global standard. Non-GS1 barcodes can be alphanumeric or numeric and can vary in length.
Non-GS1 barcodes can be used in various industries, including healthcare, transportation, and logistics. These barcodes can be used for internal purposes, such as inventory management, or for external purposes, such as tracking shipments.
Differences between GS1 Barcodes and Non-GS1 Barcodes
The main difference between GS1 barcodes and non-GS1 barcodes is that GS1 barcodes are recognized as a global standard and are used by companies around the world. Non-GS1 barcodes, on the other hand, are developed and used by individual companies and are not recognized as a global standard.
Another difference is the structure of the barcode itself. GS1 barcodes use a 13-digit number to uniquely identify each product, while non-GS1 barcodes can vary in length and can be alphanumeric or numeric.
GS1 barcodes also provide more detailed information about the product than non-GS1 barcodes. For example, GS1 barcodes can include information such as the country of origin, the lot number, and the expiration date, while non-GS1 barcodes typically only include a product identifier.
Finally, GS1 barcodes are required by many retailers and suppliers, particularly in the food and beverage industry. Non-GS1 barcodes are not required but may be used by individual companies for internal or external purposes.
Conclusion
In summary, GS1 barcodes are a global standard for the identification and tracking of products, while non-GS1 barcodes are developed and used by individual companies. GS1 barcodes provide more detailed information about the product and are required by many retailers and suppliers, while non-GS1 barcodes are not required but may be used for internal or external purposes.
