Step 5: Manage/Validate UPC Product Data
Barcode symbols, such as a UPC barcode, simply encode the numeric digits of the UPC (GTIN-12). The actual corresponding UPC product data and price reside in the databases of their respective retailer trading partners. Amazon, Wal-Mart and other retailers create portals or use data templates to obtain UPC product data from their suppliers.
The final step for UPC implementation involves recording UPC product data so the information can be shared with other industry tools and retailers. This information is normally managed in a “cloud” environment for flexibility or by spreadsheets. Since the GS1 standards and web tools do not allow GTINs to be reused or re-assigned, it is prudent to have UPC product data validated for accuracy before publishing to global registries.
One of the benefits of correctly licensing a UPC Company Prefix or GTIN is a limited subscription to an optional online tool called the Data Hub. The Data Hub is not used by retailers to actually research and discover suppliers’ products but rather to make sure a UPC is licensed to the actual brand supplier. The limited access DOES NOT allow companies to export out their GTINs (GTIN-12/GTIN-14), so it is not recommended to use as your company’s sole repository.
As part of GS1 Barcode Service/Support packages, companies are provided “cloud” environment and/or spreadsheets to manage their UPC product data. Our GS1 Barcode Consultants personally assist members managing AND validating the information before published on cloud databases and the GS1 Data Hub.
Click the linked arrow below to initiate the GS1 UPC Barcode process. Wherease Bar Code Graphics is the US authority which provides the actual .eps barcodes and implementation support, GS1 is the standards organization that primarily licenses Company Prefixes and GTINs.
