In the global marketplace, barcodes are essential for efficient management and information sharing. A Vendor Identification Code is a key part of the barcode system, uniquely identifying your business and supporting product traceability in retail, logistics, and international trade.
What is a Vendor Identification Code?
A Vendor Identification Code is a unique number assigned by GS1 (Global Standards 1) to identify your company within the barcode system. This code ensures that your barcodes are globally unique and traceable, distinguishing your products from others.
The Role of Vendor Identification Codes
● Identify Your Company: Marks your business as the product's manufacturer or distributor.
● Ensure Uniqueness: Guarantees that each barcode is unique worldwide.
● Support Information Management: Facilitates quick entry, management, and retrieval of product information.
Vendor Identification Code in EAN Barcodes
Here's an example of an EAN-13 barcode: 6923456701234
● 692: Country code for China.
● 34567: Vendor Identification Code, uniquely assigned by GS1.
● 01234: Product code, differentiating your products.
● 4: Check digit, ensuring barcode accuracy.
Other Barcode Formats
Vendor Identification Codes are also used in UPC-A and ITF-14 barcodes, with slight variations in position and length:
Barcode Format | Vendor Identification Code Position | Example |
EAN-13 | Digits 2-7 | 6923456701234 |
UPC-A | Digits 2-6 | 12345678905 |
ITF-14 | Digits 2-7 | 34567890123456 |
Note: Shorter Vendor Identification Codes allow for more product variations, ideal for large enterprises.
How to Apply for a Vendor Identification Code
1. Register with GS1
Contact your local GS1 branch (e.g., GS1 China).
Submit the registration form with your business details.
2. Pay Fees
Pay the necessary registration and annual fees.
Shorter codes may cost more.
3. Receive Your Code
GS1 reviews your application and assigns a unique Vendor Identification Code.
You receive a registration certificate.
4. Generate Barcodes
Use an online barcode generator to create barcodes for your products.
Apply these barcodes to packaging and logistics.
Using an Online Barcode Generator
After obtaining your Vendor Identification Code, you can easily create barcodes using an online barcode generator. Here's how:
1. Prepare Your Data
Ensure you have the complete barcode number: country code, Vendor Identification Code, product code, and check digit.
2. Choose Barcode Type
Select the appropriate barcode type (e.g., EAN-13 for retail).
3. Generate the Barcode
Enter your barcode number into the online barcode generator.
Customize the size and resolution as needed.
4. Use
Download the generated barcode image (PNG, JPG).
Print and apply it to your products.
Recommendation: Use the online barcode generator for a free, easy, and high-quality barcode creation experience.
A Vendor Identification Code is vital for businesses in the global market, ensuring your products are uniquely identifiable and traceable. By understanding what a Vendor Identification Code is, how to apply for it, and using an online barcode generator effectively, you can enhance your product management and streamline your operations.
If you have your Vendor Identification Code, visit our online barcode generator to create your barcodes effortlessly and boost your business's competitiveness worldwide.