Barcode registration
A barcode refers to a code available in the form of parallel lines and numbers, which is machine-readable and varies in widths. These codes are printed on products and are used to identify the same. In a barcode, the patterns and lines show the data about them. On scanning these codes, general and basic information about the products is available. An optical scanning device or barcode scanner is necessary to scan the code, and the data can be seen in a computer system. This cuts downtime significantly in obtaining the necessary information about the products. It also does away with the chances of human errors, if any.
In this system, the basic concept is that any product or service should have pre-formulated information. It may be ordered, invoiced or priced at any stage of the company’s supply chain. Besides, the GTIN or Global Trade Item Number, which serves as a unique number for identification, has to be allocated for the same.
Commercially, barcodes gained success after they were used in the automatic checkout process in supermarkets. Presently, these codes are used globally and now they are also used in other tasks. These tasks are usually known as data capture and automatic identification.
Different types of barcodes
EAN/UPC Barcodes:
This kind of barcodes can be recognized instantly. They are printed on almost all consumer goods across the globe. Among the GS1 barcodes, EAN/UPCis the most extensively used ones. The retail world has transformed manifold with these barcodes into play.
GS1 DataBar barcodes:
These are 1D barcodes, which are compact and can accommodate a lot of information. This kind of barcode is extensively used in labelling fresh foods and on coupons. GS1 DataBar barcodes can contain information like the expiry date or batch number of an item. Besides, they can include information on other attributes, like weight of an item, which is generally necessary for point of sales goods. In the retail industry, this type of barcodes is used extensively. Laser scanners can read these codes seamlessly. These codes are used in logistics and general distribution.
GS1-128 and ITF-14 barcodes:
These are 1D barcodes, very versatile in nature. They are used in tracking goods through international supply chains. Any of the GS1 ID keys may be present in these barcodes. Besides, they contain data like expiry dates, serial number and other information. It should be noted that ITF-14 barcodes can have solely the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). They are be printed on materials that are corrugated.
Two-dimensional barcodes:
2D or two-dimensional barcodes resemble small rectangles or squares. The dots are individual and very small in size. However, this type of barcodes is capable of holding a lot of data. Even when the size of the print is too small or the code is printed on a product, the codes are legible. These barcodes find their use in a wide range of industries. This includes warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare and logistics, besides others.
What documents are required?
• GST certificate
• PAN Card
• Certificate of incorporation
• Balance sheet (showing information up to 31st March)
• Copy of any other registration issued by the government
Why should you use a barcode?
• Barcodes can seamlessly be integrated with software
• Complete accuracy
• Easy management of goods and raw materials in real time
• Cost-effective
• Errors are eliminated
• Fast entry of data
• Eases up the global marketing process