What is a GS1 Barcode? The Complete Guide for Product Sellers

If you sell products, you've heard the term GS1 barcode. But what exactly is it, why do you need one, and how do you get it? This guide explains everything in plain language.

What is a GS1 Barcode?

A GS1 barcode is a standardized product identification system used worldwide by retailers, manufacturers, and e-commerce platforms. The 'GS1' stands for Global Standards 1 — an international organization that manages product numbering systems used in over 150 countries.

When you scan a product barcode at a supermarket, warehouse, or on Amazon, the number encoded in that barcode follows GS1 standards. This ensures every product in the world has a unique, globally recognized identity.

Types of GS1 Barcodes

EAN-13 (European Article Number)

The EAN-13 is the most widely used barcode format worldwide. It contains 13 digits and is used on virtually every product sold in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. If you're selling products outside the United States, this is the barcode you need.

UPC-A (Universal Product Code)

The UPC-A barcode contains 12 digits and is the standard for products sold in the United States and Canada. Amazon, Walmart, and most US retailers require UPC codes. Importantly, UPC-A is technically a subset of the EAN-13 standard — an EAN-13 barcode is globally accepted everywhere a UPC is required.

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

GTIN is the umbrella term for all GS1 product numbers, including EAN and UPC. When Amazon or a retailer asks for your GTIN, they are asking for your EAN or UPC barcode number.

Why Do You Need a GS1 Barcode?

You need a GS1 barcode if any of the following apply to you:

1. You want to sell products on Amazon, Walmart, eBay, or any major e-commerce platform
2. You want to distribute products to retail stores or supermarkets
3. You want to export your products internationally
4. You need to track inventory in a warehouse management system
5. You want to print product labels with scannable barcodes

What's Included When You Buy a GS1 Barcode?

When you purchase a GS1 barcode from gs1upc.shop, you receive:

1. A unique EAN-13 or UPC barcode number registered to your product
2. A digital barcode image file (PNG/SVG) ready to print on labels
3. An official certificate confirming the barcode is registered to your company
4. Instant digital delivery — no waiting
5. Lifetime validity — your barcode never expires

GS1 Barcode vs. Non-GS1 Barcode: What's the Difference?

A non-GS1 barcode is simply a barcode image generated by a software tool without a registered number behind it. These barcodes may scan correctly but have no global registry entry. Amazon specifically states in its requirements that it prefers GS1-issued barcodes for product listings.

A GS1 barcode has a globally unique number issued by the GS1 system, meaning your product's identity is recognized by every major retailer and platform worldwide.

How to Get a GS1 Barcode for Your Product

1. Go to gs1upc.shop and choose your barcode type (EAN or UPC)
2. Enter the number of barcodes you need (one per product variant)
3. Complete your purchase — instant digital delivery
4. Download your barcode image and certificate
5. Print your barcode on product labels and start selling

How Much Does a GS1 Barcode Cost?

The cost of a GS1 barcode depends on how many you need and the provider. At gs1upc.shop, we offer competitive pricing with no annual renewal fees. Unlike the official GS1 organization which charges yearly membership fees, our barcodes are a one-time purchase with lifetime validity. Visit our pricing page for current rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do GS1 barcodes expire?

No. Once you purchase a GS1 barcode from gs1upc.shop, it is valid for the lifetime of your product. You will never need to renew or repurchase it.

Can I use one barcode for multiple products?

No. Each unique product or product variant (different size, color, flavor, etc.) requires its own unique barcode number. Never reuse barcodes across different products.

Are your barcodes accepted by Amazon?

Yes. Our GS1-certified barcodes are accepted by Amazon, Walmart, eBay, and all major global retailers and marketplaces.

How quickly will I receive my barcode?

Instantly. After completing your purchase on gs1upc.shop, you will receive your barcode image and certificate for immediate download. No waiting period.

Ready to get your GS1 barcode? Visit gs1upc.shop to order your barcode in minutes with instant digital delivery and a certificate included.