Frequently Asked Barcode Questions
What is a UPC?
U.P.C. is the acronym for Universal Product Code. It is the most used barcode in the world and is seen on just about every product in physical stores and online. Your customers may ask you to place a U.P.C. barcode on your products or packages.
What is a GTIN?
A GTIN® (pronounced Gee-Tin) is the acronym for Global Trade Item Number® It’s a number that uniquely identifies a product and can be found below a UPC barcode symbol. GTINs are used as the global standard to identify products.
What is a GTIN company prefix?
A company prefix that complies with GS1 Standards (a “GS1 Company Prefix”) is a unique number that is assigned to just your company by GS1 US. It’s the foundation of GS1 Standards and is used in identification numbers, including Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) that identify products, and Global Location Numbers (GLNs) that identify locations. GS1 Company Prefixes come in different capacities and prices depending on how many identification numbers you need to create.
Should I only buy my barcode GTINs and Prefixes from the GS1-US?
Yes, GS1-US is the official organization for assigning unique product identifiers, including GTINs and company prefixes, in the US. Aarongraphics is a Premier GS1-US Solution Provider which enables us to assist you in buying GTINs and Prefixes from the GS1-US. Visit our GTIN and Prefix page to find the links to purchase them.
What is the difference between a U.P.C and a GTIN?
GTINs, U.P.C.s, and other types of barcodes are often confused as the same thing – but they are different. A GTIN is a number that identifies the product itself and the U.P.C. is the barcode that allows the GTIN to be scanned by a barcode reader, like the ones at the checkout counter of a physical store or the distribution center of an online retailer. GTINs by themselves are typically used in online retail, in databases, and in electronic transactions, such as EDI.
How do I create a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) for a U.P.C barcode using my GS1 Company Prefix?
Once you’ve obtained a GS1 Company Prefix, create an item reference number for your product and then calculate the check digit.
How do I get my barcodes printed for me?
Aarongraphics can print your barcodes on small labels to be applied to your product. See our Preprinted Barcode Labels Page for samples and pricing.
What if I need a barcode file to drop into my artwork?
Aarongraphics can make and save your barcode as an EPS file to add to your products label design. See our Barcode EPS Files Page for pricing.
Do I need a UPC-A barcode if I only sell my products online?
The short answer is “maybe.” More and more online companies are requiring GTINs and U.P.C.s for unique product identification, so it is always a good idea to check the vendor requirements documents that are generally published by retailers.
Why don't I see any data when I scan my product barcodes using a smartphone?
The GTIN in a U.P.C. barcode is not automatically linked to barcode scanning applications on the internet. They are simply used to identify your products at various points in the supply chain. There are numerous internet apps you can explore for smartphone purposes, but GS1 US does not provide any.