Step 1: Estimate Barcode Needs
“How many UPCs to buy” is one of the most common questions we get asked. Two alternative GS1 barcode solutions are available. Companies that decide they need many UPC barcodes because they want to sell to larger shops typically license a UPC Company Prefix, which allows them to have 10 or more UPC barcodes. As an alternative, small businesses that only require a few barcodes right now can obtain single GS1 GTINs. The subsequent stages give further details for both choices.
How To Estimate Your Barcode Needs
As a general rule, each variant of your product will necessitate its unique UPC. If your product comes in a variety of colors or patterns, each will require its own UPC. If your product is available in multiple sizes, each size will require its own UP.C.
The same is true for various packing and configurations. For instance, baby shampoo provided in a pink plastic bottle requires a different UPC than the same baby shampoo provided in a pink plastic bottle. Furthermore, for each style of packaging, the same brand of shampoo that comes with or without a bundled toy requires a distinct UPC.
Estimating your UPC needs is important now, but also important to revisit from time to time. Regardless of which option you select now, the GS1 management system is flexible enough to allow companies to obtain additional company-licensed prefixes and single GTINs in the future.
