How small can I make a barcode?
Barcodes can come in a wide range of sizes and can get down to a 1/8th inch square when using a 2D code. However, there is a trade off since making such a small code will limit the amount of characters you use and will require a high resolution label printer to ensure the quality of the print is still readable by a scanner. The smaller a code becomes the more difficult it is to read.
UPC Number and UPC Barcode
Do I need a UPC number?
If you sell products to a distributor or a retailer, you will typically need a UPC barcode. If you are not sure, it is best to contact the company selling your product to find out their policy on UPC barcodes. When you obtain your UPC number, you will also get a certificate authenticating your number. Most retailers require proof of the certificate to verify that your number is unique and authorized.
| Usage | UPC needed? |
| Tracking internal inventory | No |
| Selling products directly to customers | No |
| Selling products through a distributor or retailer | Most of the time (Contact your distributor or retailer to be sure) |
| Selling products through a major national store | Always |
How do I get a UPC number?
Only GS1 US can issue you a globally unique “GS1 Company Prefix” that is used to create UPC numbers.
Follow this link for all the information you need to start this process: Apply for a UPC Barcode
How much does a UPC number cost?
The fee is determined by the number of unique products you need to identify and as well as gross sales revenue.
Because the prices vary so greatly, only GS1 can give you an accurate cost for this.
What is a UPC barcode?
You are probably familiar with the barcodes you see on most packaged products. These barcodes are in the UPC-A code format. It is 12 digits long and looks something like this:
The UPC number itself is referred to as the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). The GTIN is made up of two parts: The UPC Company Prefix and the number that you have assigned to that unique product.
This first component, the UPC Company Prefix, is between 6 and 10 digits long, and is assigned to you by GS1. The number of digits is determined by how many products you will need to assign numbers to. So if you have thousands of products, your company prefix will need to be fewer digits. If you have just a few products, your company prefix will likely be closer to 10 digits long. This company prefix number will represent you as the manufacturer on all of your products, as well as in any EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) applications.