To apply for barcodes from GS1 HK, you will need to submit the following four documents:

• A completed online application form
   
• A copy of your company's Business Registration
   
• A proof of employee headcount, which may include employee insurance documentation or an MPF certificate
   
• A payment receipt

If you have any questions regarding your company’s category, the associated fees, or require assistance with the application, please complete our barcode enquiry form. We are here to assist you!

The application process for obtaining barcodes from GS1 HK is generally straightforward. After you submit your application along with the necessary documents, you can expect processing to take approximately 3 to 5 working days. Upon approval, you will receive a unique GS1 Company Prefix, enabling you to generate barcodes for all your products anytime using our user-friendly BarcodePlus platform. 

However, this can change depending on the volume of applications and any extra verification that may be required. To ensure a hassle-free experience, it's best to apply early and ensure your application is complete and accurate.

Membership is available to all organisations that hold a valid Hong Kong Business Registration Certificate. This applies to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and online sellers alike. No matter if you’re a small business or a large corporation, GS1 Hong Kong provides barcodes that suit every business type.

GS1 is a global standards organisation responsible for establishing barcode standards. By becoming a GS1 member, you can ensure that your company's product identification codes comply with global standards, allowing products to be correctly identified and tracked in the global market. This helps improve supply chain efficiency and enhances market competitiveness. 

Additionally, GS1 membership provides technical support, free workshops, business collaboration opportunities, and access to the latest information related to barcode standards. 

Yes, even if you sell exclusively online, having barcodes is highly beneficial. Barcodes streamline inventory management, making it easier to track and fulfill orders. GTINs help Google quickly identify and categorize products, ensuring that the most relevant information is displayed when consumers search for them. Additionally, many online marketplaces, such as Amazon, require products to have barcodes for listing and sales processes. Therefore, having barcodes is essential for a successful online business.

When you apply for barcode services, you'll pay a one-time entrance fee along with an annual membership fee. To maintain access to your barcodes, it's important to renew your membership each year. This enables GS1 Hong Kong to provide ongoing support and updates, ensuring that you remain compliant with industry standards.

When you apply for barcodes through GS1 HK, you will receive at least 1,000 authorised Hong Kong barcode numbers (489) GTINs. The exact number will depend on your membership category and business needs. For example, smaller businesses might start with a smaller package, while larger businesses may need a package that provides thousands of barcodes or more. If you’d like to find out which package is best for you, please fill out our barcode enquiry form, and we will be happy to assist you.

After submitting your application for barcodes to GS1 HK, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application. Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive another notification indicating that your application has succeeded. This communication will include details about your GS1 Company Prefix and any barcodes assigned to your account. If you do not receive confirmation within the expected timeframe, please fill in our enquiry form and request a status update.

Upon successful application, you will receive your login information for the GS1 HK member portal via email. After logging in, you can easily download your Membership Confirmation Letter, Membership Certificate, and official receipt.

As a member, you will receive a minimum of 1,000 authorised GS1 HK barcodes, complimentary access to the BarcodePlus platform and GS1 HK 1QR platform, and join GS1 HK barcode workshops for free. You will also be benefitted from free barcode symbol testing and have the opportunity to engage in major GS1 HK events, facilitating connections with retailers and buyers. Moreover, GS1 HK offers essential resources, including barcode usage guidelines, success stories, and the latest industry news, ensuring that members effectively utilise barcodes in accordance with industry standards.

GS1 HK is the only authorised organisation in Hong Kong to issue globally recognised UPC, EAN, GTIN, and related barcodes. GS1 barcodes are issued by the global standards organisation GS1, ensuring that each barcode is unique worldwide, facilitating product identification and tracking. In contrast, barcodes from other sources may be limited to specific regions or industries, lacking global recognition, or may not adhere to necessary industry standards during the generation process, resulting in scanning issues. Furthermore, GS1 barcodes follow strict formats and regulations, effectively enhancing supply chain efficiency and ensuring that products are correctly identified in major retailers and markets. Therefore, obtaining GS1 barcodes will provide you with significant advantages in international trade.

You can verify your barcode using GS1’s VbG (Verified by GS1), a unique online service that provides access to basic contact information for GS1 member companies. By simply entering a product barcode number into VbG, you can find the contact details of the barcode owner. Customers can also use this method to verify product information. Therefore, avoid purchasing barcodes from unknown sources, as discrepancies in data during checks by retailers, shipping companies, or customers may lead to misunderstandings and potential losses.

If you have more questions about your company’s eligibility, want to know your application status, or need assistance navigating please fill out our barcode enquiry form, call us at 2863 9701, or WhatsApp us at 5122 7144. Our customer service team is available to address your inquiries and provide the necessary support regarding barcodes and membership. You can also check our FAQ section for more information on common queries.