If you’re planning to sell your product in supermarkets, retail stores, or online platforms in Sri Lanka or internationally, one thing you must have is a barcode. Barcodes make your product scannable, trackable, and sellableβ€”and they’re essential for inventory management and supply chain logistics.

So, how do you get a barcode for your product in Sri Lanka? This guide walks you through everything you need to know.

πŸ” What Is a Barcode?

A barcode is a unique identifier that stores information about a product, such as its manufacturer, product type, and price. The most common format for retail products is the EAN-13 (European Article Number) barcode.

Each barcode is unique to a product and helps retailers:

  • Identify the product instantly
  • Manage inventory efficiently
  • Reduce errors during billing and checkout
  • Track sales and restocking

🏒 Who Issues Barcodes in Sri Lanka?

In Sri Lanka, barcodes are issued by the official representative of GS1, the global body that governs barcode standards.

GS1 Sri Lanka is managed by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

πŸ”— Website: https://www.gs1lk.org

βœ… Step-by-Step: How to Get a Barcode for Your Product in Sri Lanka

1. Register with GS1 Sri Lanka

The first step is to become a member of GS1 Sri Lanka. This involves applying for a GS1 Company Prefix, which forms the base for all your barcodes.

Documents Required:

  • Business registration or company incorporation certificate
  • VAT certificate (if applicable)
  • Product details (name, category, etc.)
  • Company contact details

2. Pay the Membership & Licensing Fee

GS1 Sri Lanka charges a registration fee and an annual license fee. The cost depends on:

  • The number of barcodes (GTINs) you need
  • Your company size and turnover

πŸ’° As of now (subject to change):

  • Small businesses can expect to pay between LKR 10,000 to LKR 30,000 initially.
  • Annual renewals are required.

Tip: It’s best to contact GS1 Sri Lanka for the most updated fee structure.

3. Receive Your GS1 Company Prefix

Once your application is processed and approved, you’ll receive a GS1 Company Prefix. This is a unique number assigned to your business.

You’ll use this prefix to generate GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers) for each of your products.

πŸ“Œ What Is a GTIN?

A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is the unique number encoded into a barcode. For example, a standard EAN-13 barcode contains 13 digits:

[GS1 Company Prefix] + [Product Code] + [Check Digit]

Each product variation (size, flavor, color) needs its own GTIN and barcode.

πŸ–¨οΈ Generating and Printing the Barcode

Once you have your GTINs:

a) Use Barcode Software

GS1 may provide tools to generate barcode images. Alternatively, use online barcode generators or barcode software like:

  • Barcode Studio
  • Online Barcode Generator (GS1 compliant)

b) Design Your Packaging

Include the barcode in your product packaging design. Make sure it follows the GS1 size and placement standards to ensure readability.

c) Print & Test

  • Use high-resolution printing to avoid scanning issues.
  • Test with a barcode scanner before mass production.

πŸ›’ Where Is the Barcode Used?

Barcodes are essential if you plan to sell through:

  • Supermarkets and retail chains (e.g., Keells, Cargills, Arpico)
  • Online marketplaces (e.g., Daraz, Amazon, eBay)
  • Distributors and wholesalers
  • Exports

Retailers will often require a GS1-verified barcode before accepting your product.

πŸ“„ Things to Remember

  • Each product variation needs a separate barcode.
  • Barcodes don’t contain prices, but can be linked to prices in point-of-sale systems.
  • Annual renewal with GS1 Sri Lanka is required to keep your barcodes valid.
  • You must not reuse old barcodes for new products.

πŸ™‹ FAQs

❓ Can I use a free or third-party barcode instead of GS1?

Many platforms (especially international retailers and Amazon) require GS1-verified barcodes. Using non-GS1 codes can lead to rejection or product delisting.

❓ How long does it take to get a barcode?

Once the application and payment are completed, it usually takes 3–7 working days to get your GS1 Company Prefix and barcode numbers.

πŸ‘‡ Need Help?

You can contact GS1 Sri Lanka directly for guidance and support.

πŸ“§ Email: info@gs1lk.org
πŸ“ž Phone: +94 11 5588800
🌐 Website: https://www.gs1lk.org

🎯 Final Thoughts

Getting a barcode for your product is not just a technical requirementβ€”it’s a business essential. It opens doors to organized retail, streamlines your logistics, and builds credibility with partners and customers.

So if you’re launching your own product in Sri Lanka, don’t delay this step. Get your barcodes the right way, from the right source.

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