Obtain GS1 bar code numbers
You can use this page to apply for GS1 bar code numbers only if you are based in a country where there is no GS1 Member Organisation. Check our GS1 Member Organisation list to find out if there is a GS1 Member Organisation in your country.
Here are some common questions we receive from companies planning to implement bar codes. If you still have a question, please contact gtin@gs1.org:
- What can I use GS1 bar code numbers for?
- What are the benefits for my business?
- What do I need to consider before applying for bar code numbers?
- How many numbers do I need?
- How much will it cost?
- How long will it take to process my application?
- Does GS1 also provide me with barcode symbols?
- What do I get when I register?
- What happens if I'm exporting to the US and Canada?
 
FAQ
1. What can I use GS1 bar code numbers for?
Barcode numbers (technically called GTINs or Global Trade Item Numbers) are used to uniquely and globally identify things like trade items, logistic units, locations, parties, and assets.
2. What are the benefits for my business?
Bar code numbers help me to save money:
- Fast and accurate data capture at every point in the supply chain, including goods receiving, warehousing, picking, dispatch and point of sale.
- Less stock-holding and less waste
- Greater responsiveness to trade customers and consumers
- The ability to automate warehousing
- Better control over distribution and storage
- Fewer errors in the recognition of goods
- Improved company to company communications throughout the supply chain
- One standard for use with all trading partners and therefore no conflicting demands
3. What do I need to consider before applying?
If your company is legally linked (i.e. subsidiary, parent company, etc.) to another company that already has a GS1 bar code number then your company and the other company could use bar code numbers from the same number bank, provided that you both agree to share the numbering capacity.
Only manufacturers and suppliers are entitled to apply for bar code numbers. We do not allocate numbers to agents or brokers acting on behalf of manufacturers and suppliers.
4. How many numbers do I need?
- Each trade item (product or service) that is different from another in design and/or content is allocated a separate, unique barcode number (technically called GTIN or Global Trade Item Number) that remains the same as long as the item is traded. Changes to the language on the package, size, flavour, colour and shape typically require a new barcode number.
- With 10 barcode numbers you can identify:
- 10 retail items
- 80 boxes or outer cases containing homogenous products at different packaging levels
- 1 million pallets
If you are unsure of when to apply a new barcode number, please refer to our GTIN Allocation Rules document.
5. How much will it cost?
It depends on the number of bar code numbers you require. For example, 10 bar code numbers cost 50 EUR per year and 100 bar code numbers cost 150 EUR per year.
For this service you will need to pay us an annual fee. You will be sent an invoice on the 31st January each year. For the first year, you will pay the fee on a pro-rata basis depending on the quarter in which you register:
| Registration date |
Fee charged |
| January – March |
100% of annual fee |
| April – June |
75% of annual fee |
| July – September |
50% of annual fee |
| October – December |
25% of annual fee |
For example, if you request 100 bar code numbers in April, you will need to pay 112.50 EUR for the first year and 150 EUR per year for subsequent years.
6. How long will it take to process my application?
Your application will be processed following receipt of your completed application form and payment. For tracking purposes, please also provide us with proof of payment by fax or e-mail.
7. Does GS1 also provide me with barcode symbols?
No, GS1 does not provide the barcode symbols. In order to convert the numbers into barcodes, you will need to contact a local printer or barcode supplier.
8. What do I get when I register?
Each company receives:
- Unique barcode numbers providing access to the full range of GS1 standards
- Ongoing helpdesk support on GS1 System queries
- Barcode symbol verification service
- Technical documentation to assist implementation of the GS1 bar codes
- Access to our training website
- Newsletter
9. What happens if I'm exporting to the US and Canada?
If your products are exported to US and Canada, please ask you local trading partners whether they can scan EAN-13 barcodes (barcodes with 13 digits). If not, you will have to apply at GS1 US at http://www.gs1us.org
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