How to Register a Maker Code for Your Product Barcodes

If you're selling products whether online, in retail stores, or at local markets your barcodes need a registered maker code. Without one, retailers can't scan your products, marketplaces may reject your listings, and your brand loses credibility. Registering a maker code is one of those behind-the-scenes tasks that separates hobby sellers from legitimate businesses. Here's exactly how to do it, step by step.

What is a maker code, and how is it different from a product code?

A maker code (also called a GS1 Company Prefix or manufacturer identification number) is a unique string of numbers assigned to your business. It identifies you as the company behind a product. Every product barcode you create starts with your maker code.

A product code, on the other hand, is the number you assign to each individual item. Together, the maker code and product code form your full GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) the number encoded in the barcode itself.

If you want a deeper breakdown of how these two parts relate to each other, you can read more about the difference between a maker code and a product code on barcodes.

Why do I need to register a maker code before selling products?

Retailers, warehouses, and e-commerce platforms use barcode scanning to track inventory. If your barcode doesn't have a properly registered maker code, it won't be recognized in their systems. This leads to:

Rejected shipments Many retailers refuse products without valid, registered barcodes.
Duplicate barcodes If you make up numbers instead of registering, someone else might use the same ones.
Lost sales Marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart require legitimate GS1-registered barcodes.

A maker code is the foundation. You need it before you can assign product codes, print barcodes, or list items anywhere that scans products.

Where do I register a maker code?

You register your maker code through GS1, the global organization that manages barcode standards. GS1 operates in over 100 countries, so you'll register through your local GS1 member organization. For example:

United States: GS1 US (Montserrat fans, unrelated but barcodes start at gs1us.org)
United Kingdom: GS1 UK
India: GS1 India
Australia: GS1 Australia

You can verify your registration by running a GS1 company prefix lookup for maker identification once your code is active.

What are the exact steps to register a maker code?

The process is straightforward, though it takes some time. Here's what to expect:

Go to your country's GS1 website. Search for "GS1 [your country]" or go directly to gs1.org to find your local office.
Choose a membership plan. Plans are based on how many unique products you need to barcode. A small business with 1–10 products pays less than a company with 100+ SKUs.
Fill out the application. You'll provide your company name, contact details, address, and the number of barcode numbers you need.
Pay the registration fee. Costs vary by country and plan. In the US, initial fees start around $250 for the smallest tier, with annual renewal fees afterward.
Receive your GS1 Company Prefix. After processing (usually 1–7 business days), GS1 sends you your unique maker code a string of numbers that becomes the first part of every barcode you create.
Assign product codes. Use your prefix to generate unique GTINs for each product. You decide the item reference numbers; GS1 gives you the structure.
Create and print your barcodes. Use barcode generation software or GS1's tools to convert your GTINs into scannable barcode images (UPC, EAN, or QR).

If you're still unsure about what a maker code looks like on an actual barcode label, check out this breakdown of what a maker code is on a product barcode.

How much does it cost to register a maker code?

Costs depend on your country and how many products you need to register. Here are general ranges for GS1 US as a reference:

10 barcodes: ~$250 initial fee, $50/year renewal
100 barcodes: ~$750 initial, $150/year
1,000+ barcodes: Custom pricing

Some third-party sellers offer "resold" barcodes at lower prices, but these are not officially registered to your company. Retailers and platforms increasingly reject them. Registering directly through GS1 is the safest route.

What mistakes do people make when registering a maker code?

These are the errors that cause real problems down the line:

Buying barcodes from resellers instead of GS1. The barcode might scan, but the registered company won't match yours. Retailers check this.
Registering for too few barcodes. If you plan to launch new products within a year or two, get a plan that covers growth. Upgrading later is possible, but it costs more.
Using the same barcode for different products. Every unique product variation (size, color, flavor) needs its own GTIN.
Skipping the renewal. GS1 memberships are annual. If you don't renew, your maker code can be deactivated.
Confusing maker code with product code. Your maker code identifies your company; it is not the same as the number on an individual product. Assign product codes correctly within your prefix range.

Can I register a maker code if I'm a small business or sole seller?

Yes. GS1 membership is available to businesses of all sizes, including sole proprietors and small Etsy or Shopify sellers. The smallest plan is designed specifically for businesses with fewer than 10 products. You don't need to be a large manufacturer.

If you're selling on Amazon, having your own GS1-registered maker code also means your barcodes work across all platforms not just one marketplace.

What should I do right after my maker code is registered?

Once GS1 approves your application and sends your company prefix, here's your immediate action list:

Save your GS1 Company Prefix in a secure, accessible place. You'll use it for every product you ever barcode.
Assign a unique product code to each product and variation. Keep a spreadsheet tracking which number goes with which item.
Generate your barcode images using GS1 US's free barcode tool or reliable software. Make sure the barcode meets size and quiet zone requirements.
Test your barcodes before printing on packaging. Use a barcode verifier or a free scanning app to confirm they scan correctly and return the right data.
Update your product listings on any marketplace or retailer system with your new, official GTINs.

Practical checklist before you register your maker code

Before heading to the GS1 website, make sure you have these ready:

Your legal business name and address (as registered)
A count of how many unique products (including variations) you need barcodes for now and in the near future
A payment method for the registration fee
A plan for tracking your GTIN assignments (a simple spreadsheet works fine)
A barcode generation and testing tool lined up so you can move quickly once your prefix arrives

Registering a maker code is a one-time setup that protects every product you sell. Get it done early, do it through GS1 directly, and keep your records organized from day one.