A company prefix is the leading part of a barcode number, typically ranging from 5 to 11 digits in an EAN-13 or UPC-A barcode. Reseller barcodes, like ours, come from large batches with a consistent prefix, which is why most resellers don’t offer unique prefixes. Two products from different companies can share the same prefix, but the full barcode number will still be unique.
Retailers generally require a globally unique barcode number, not necessarily a company prefix. However, some major retailers may prefer vendors provide a company prefix for their EDI systems or may require direct GS1 membership.
To get a company prefix, businesses often join GS1 Hong Kong. This gives them a range to assign product codes (e.g., 000 – 999) and generate a valid barcode, but it requires ongoing annual fees and can be complicated.
How to Get a Company Prefix at Barcode Savers Hong Kong
With Barcode Savers, you can purchase barcode packages that include a globally unique prefix:
- 10 package: Includes an 11-digit company prefix (allocation 0–9, up to 10 products).
- 100 package: Includes a 10-digit company prefix (allocation 00–99, up to 100 products).
- 1000 package: Includes a 9-digit company prefix (allocation 000–999, up to 1000 products).
We use the same method applied by GS1 when issuing “variable length” prefixes for smaller ranges of allocation. Each package includes the company prefix, product allocation range, calculated check digit, and high-resolution barcode images (EPS, JPEG, TIFF).
Our barcodes predate GS1’s subscription model, so there are no annual fees. When you buy from Barcode Savers, the prefix and barcodes are owned by you, not licensed.