A Beginner's Guide to Getting GTIN, EAN, UPC Barcodes in Hong Kong
In today's interconnected world, businesses that embrace global expansion opportunities can unlock limitless growth potential. GS1’s product barcodes, also known as Global Trade Item Number (GTINs), serve as the key to unlocking these opportunities. Discover how to obtain authorised barcodes in Hong Kong, ensuring the legitimacy and global recognition of your product codes, and empowering you to drive your business towards remarkable growth online and offline.
Why Do You Need Barcodes?
Product barcodes are like identification numbers; they serve as unique identifiers for the myriad products in the world. Not only do they ensure that your products can be successfully listed for sale, but they also enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the supply chain.
1. List Products in Major Retailers and Online Stores:
Many leading retailers and online marketplaces mandate barcodes for product listings. This practice not only simplifies product identification but also enhances inventory management and order processing efficiency. Using GTINs also prevents barcode duplication among different manufacturers, maintaining the uniqueness and accuracy of the barcode system. If you're aiming to reach a wider audience through these sales channels, obtaining GTINs is crucial.
2. Enhanced Efficiency in Inventory Tracking and Management:
By providing each product with a unique identifier, businesses can easily monitor inventory levels, reduce errors, and improve overall operational efficiency. For example, staff can simply scan the product barcode at the time of shipment to access product information, minimising the time spent on manual data entry. This not only speeds up processing times but also lowers the likelihood of human error in order processing.
3. Protect Brand with Anti-Forgery Measures:
Using standardised barcodes, such as GTINs, can help combat counterfeit products. When a product is assigned a unique barcode, it becomes easier for retailers and consumers to verify its authenticity. Most retailers also check barcodes against a database of legitimate products, instantly flagging any discrepancies that may indicate a counterfeit. In a market where counterfeit goods can damage reputations and lead to significant financial losses, the use of standardised barcodes is an essential strategy for brand protection.
What Types of Barcodes Do You Need?
The type of barcode you require depends on the specific needs of your business and the intended sales channels. Here are some commonly used barcode formats:
• GTIN (Global Trade Item Number):
GTIN is a broader term that encompasses various barcode formats, including EAN, UPC, and ISBN. It is often used as a generic term for product identification codes.
• EAN (European Article Number):
The EAN category includes EAN-13, which has 13 digits and requires a larger printing area, and EAN-8, which has 8 digits and occupies a smaller printing area, making it suitable for smaller retail items like cosmetics. They are widely adopted by retail outlets and e-commerce platforms worldwide now.
• UPC (Universal Product Code):
The UPC is primarily used in the United States and Canada markets. UPC-A consists of 12 digits. The UPC-E allows the use of UPC barcodes on smaller packages where the UPC-A may not fit. It utilises a zero-suppression method to compress the GTIN-12 into an 8-digit format.
• Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes:
Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes (i.e. quick response code, or QR codes) look like squares or rectangles that contain many small, individual dots. A single 2D barcode can hold a significant amount of information and may remain legible even when printed in a small size or etched on to a product. With consumers’ growing demand for greater product information transparency, traceability and authentication in the digital era, the industry is transitioning from 1D barcodes to 2D barcodes.
Buy Barcodes Online vs. Get Authorised Barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong
There are two primary options for obtaining barcodes: purchasing them directly from a barcode provider or becoming a GS1 member and get authorised GS1 barcodes from us.
Buy Barcodes Online
While purchasing barcodes online may seem like a convenient and affordable option, it comes with significant risks and potential drawbacks that can harm your business in the long run. Here are some dangers associated with buying unauthorised barcodes:
- Verifying Authorisation Can Be Challenging: While many online barcode suppliers promote their products as authorised, businesses in Hong Kong may find it difficult to confirm their authenticity. Since many of these suppliers are based overseas, it can be tough to seek recourse if any issues arise.
- Compliance with Retailer Standards: Many large retailers and online marketplaces require products to feature authorised barcodes issued by GS1. Using unauthorised barcodes may lead to problems, as they might not be accepted by the retailer's sales systems, supply chain systems, or inventory management software. This could result in rejected products, listing restrictions, or even legal complications.
- Risks of Counterfeiting and Fraud: Unauthorised barcodes are more vulnerable to imitation or duplication, which can lead to counterfeit products entering the market. This not only jeopardises your brand’s reputation but also puts consumers at risk.
Get Authorised Barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong
GS1 HK is the only authorised organisation in Hong Kong to issue the Hong Kong 489 barcode. By simply applying for a GS1 membership, you can obtain official GS1 product barcodes along with a GS1 HK certificate, ensuring your products are recognised internationally.
- Global Recognition and Acceptance: GS1 barcodes are universally recognised and accepted by retailers, supply chain partners, and consumers worldwide. This ensures seamless product identification and tracking throughout the global supply chain.
- Multiple Barcode Formats: You can generate various barcode formats, including the widely used EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, and GTIN barcodes, suitable for different product categories, sales channels, and regions.
- Over 1,000 Unique Barcodes: As a member, you will receive a minimum of 1,000 Global Trade Item Numbers, allowing you to assign codes to a variety of products.
- Enhanced Brand Reputation: Using GS1-certified barcodes can enhance your brand's professional image and build trust among consumers and business partners.
- 1QR: Members can access a QR code (1QR) that adheres to GS1 standards for free on the platform, providing consumers with diverse product information.
How to Obtain Barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong?
Obtaining authorised barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong is a straightforward process that ensures the legitimacy and global recognition of your product codes.
1. Become a GS1 Hong Kong Member:
The first step is to become a member of GS1 Hong Kong. Visit our official website and apply for membership. You'll need to complete the membership application form, submit the required documents, and pay the annual membership fee. For enquiries, please contact us with our membership enquiry form.
2. Request Barcode Numbers:
Once your membership is approved, you can generate your own barcode numbers through the GS1 Hong Kong online portal Barcode Plus. Simply log in to your account, fill in some product information, specify the type of barcode format you need (e.g., EAN-13, UPC-A, GTIN) and generate your product barcodes. You can also generate a large number of barcodes by uploading csv files and through API.
3. Incorporate Barcodes into Your Products:
The next step is to incorporate the assigned barcode numbers into your product packaging and labeling designs. Ensure that the barcodes are clearly visible, legible, and meet the required quality standards. You can either print the barcodes directly onto your product packaging or use barcode labels or stickers.
4. Maintain Barcode Compliance:
As a GS1 Hong Kong member, it's your responsibility to maintain compliance with GS1 standards and regulations. Regularly update your barcode numbers and product information in the GS1 Hong Kong database. Monitor and address any barcode-related issues or discrepancies to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your product identification.
By following these simple steps, you can obtain authorised barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong and unlock the benefits of global recognition, supply chain efficiency, and enhanced brand credibility for your products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, purchasing barcodes is an essential step for any business looking to sell products in Hong Kong and beyond. Whether you need GTINs, EANs, or UPCs, these unique identifiers are crucial for effective inventory management and ensuring compliance with retailer standards. While it may be tempting to buy barcodes online, opting for authorised barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong offers the assurance of global recognition, compliance, and brand credibility. To obtain your barcodes from GS1 Hong Kong, simply apply for membership, and you'll gain access to a range of barcode formats tailored to your needs, along with valuable resources to support your business.
Ready to take the next step? Fill out our membership enquiry form today and start your journey toward acquiring authorised barcodes for your products!