How to Create a GS1 QR Code: A Comprehensive Guide
Sunrise 2027, a milestone date for the transition from one-dimensional barcodes to two-dimensional barcodes, begs the question: how to create a GS1 QR code?
With more and more companies realizing the potential of GS1-standardized QR codes, the search for an easy-to-use, comprehensive GS1 QR maker is at the forefront.
We’re here to give you the scoop on the who, what, and how of GS1 QR codes, introduce the best QR code generator online, and guide you toward making codes that speak a universal language.
Learn everything there is to know about securing your place as a leading innovator in the realm of efficient product identification, supply chain tracking, and inventory management.
Table of Contents
What does GS1 stand for?
GS1 is short for Global Standards 1. It is a non-profit organization recognized internationally as the reinforcer of global barcode standards and the official supplier of the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN).
These standards improve communication and transparency in supply chains across different industries, such as retail, healthcare, and logistics. GTINs, in particular, are encoded in many of the world’s barcodes and GS1 digital link QR codes for product identification.
At the heart of GS1’s system are the standardized identifiers (e.g., GTIN, SSCC, GLN, GDTI, etc.) of products, services, and locations, which keep them globally identifiable and understood.
Different barcode types in a nutshell
To give you an idea of what kind of barcodes are out there, here is a summary:
- EAN/UPC. These are the most common one-dimensional (1D) barcodes often found in retail and on almost all consumer products.
- DataBar. This more compact barcode is mainly used for fresh produce that needs additional information, such as batch or serial numbers.
- GS1-128. In logistics, these codes are primarily used to track shipping containers and pallets since they can accommodate more data.
- GS1 DataMatrix. A two-dimensional barcode that is popularly used in the healthcare industry because of its high-density storage on packaging with limited space.
- GS1 QR codes. Another 2D code capable of storing larger amounts and varied types of data, such as GTINs, expiration dates, and allergen information. They are used in inventory management and retail, as well as logistics.
How to create a GS1 QR code using a reliable code maker
Step 1: Register with GS1
To start your GS1 QR code journey, you must first visit your country-designated GS1 website and register your business to secure your GS1 Company Prefix.
Acquiring a Prefix lets you assign GTINs to your products, making them distinctively identified in the global supply chain.
Since a digital link QR code can hold more information, you can also encode batch, lot, or serial numbers, expiration dates, product usage guides, and other business-relevant data.
Step 2: Create your GS1 QR code
How to create a GS1 QR code? Well, now that your product data is ready, you can move on to the fun part. Many online platforms help create GS1-compliant QR codes but choose wisely.
Make sure that the site you use strictly follows GS1 Standards and includes supplementary features, like adhering to data privacy regulations, such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
One such platform is QR TIGER’s GS1 QR code generator which makes the process incredibly simple and straightforward. They offer secure QR codes, 24/7 customer support, and detailed tracking and analytics.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the GS1 digital link page. You can choose between the EXTENDED VERSION and SIMPLIFIED. The former allows you to enter a primary identification key, data attributes, and key qualifiers. Before proceeding, select your preferred output method (i.e., URL, File, Product Page, or App stores).
- Input the necessary information, such as entering a website or app store URL, uploading a file, or setting up your product page with links to your social media, e-commerce, or digital menu. Once done, click Generate dynamic QR code.
- Lastly, customize your QR code with different colors, patterns, and frames, or choose a template. You can even upload a logo to align with your brand. Then, click Download to save your GS1 QR code.
Real use cases of GS1 2D barcodes
See how real brands worldwide are using GS1 QR codes:
Ntsama
Ntsama is a UK-based brand founded by Joyce Gannon. It specializes in high-quality chili oils and sauces that reflect Gannon’s rich African heritage and culinary flavors.
By leveraging GS1 standards and adopting GS1 QR codes, Gannon could connect to and interact with her customers more personally—something she believed her brand needed.
She could also showcase the exceptional value of her ingredients by allowing customers to scan the QR code and find that they are locally sourced and 100% vegan-friendly.
Kinsale Mead
Ireland joins the roundup of countries using GS1-powered 2D barcodes, with Kinsale Mead leading the way. Widely known for its award-winning mead, this brand is the first GS1 Ireland member to adopt these codes.
Co-owner Kate Hempsey is rolling out these codes across their wide range of products, starting with Wild Forest Honey Mead.
Sustainability is a huge bonus of this advanced tech, and it will likely propel Kinsale Mead toward less excess packaging, less waste, and more transparency about business practices.
Top Soya
This Hong Kong-based brand is a popular local soy milk and tofu pudding maker known and loved across the region. It is now embracing “1QR,” its version of the GS1 QR code on its product packaging.
With a QR code maker for GS1 to take their target marketing campaigns to the next level, Top Soya is another great example of what can be achieved when product information is made easily accessible.
Sunrise 2027
Sunrise 2027 is a significant GS1 initiative that aims to reshape how businesses label, identify, and track products worldwide. It describes the target date for the global adoption of GS1 QR codes.
There are two major barcode types: one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) barcodes. Traditionally, many businesses relied on 1D barcodes like UPCs, which we see on most products.
Basic product information would be stored in a horizontal line of black-and-white bars containing a common identifier, such as a GTIN. However, 2D ones have proven to be much more advanced.
And that is why QR codes will replace the barcode we’ve all grown accustomed to. They can store a larger amount of varied kinds of data in a compact square, making them highly useful for tracing products regardless of size.
The implications of this shift are vast. From enhanced efficiency in supply chain processes and smoother product traceability to enriched customer engagement.
The versatile QR code
Did you know you could dive into the world of QR codes even without integrating GS1? Before improving product identification and tracking, these codes were already making waves in industries like marketing, education, and restaurants.
Because QR codes can hold a lot of information in a compact format, they can easily be integrated into packaging, marketing collateral, email invites, and menus.
With smartphones being a staple of modern living, QR codes are an incredibly accessible way to connect with friends, colleagues, businesses, and customers.
Are QR codes free to use and make? The answer lies in your chosen QR code-making platform. Plenty online offers both free and paid plans, with the former allowing you to explore special features before committing to a premium plan.
An important thing to consider in a QR code maker is an ISO 27001 certification, SSL encryption, GDPR compliance, and password protection features.
Depending on what you need your QR code for, you can also look for features like bulk generation, team access, and cost-effective pricing plans.
Use an advanced QR code generator to make custom QR codes
There are plenty of other uses for QR codes across many industries that businesses can incorporate in targeted marketing campaigns, mobile payments, interactive events, feedback collection, and more.
- Go to QR TIGER’s dynamic QR code generator and log into your account.
- Choose the QR code solution that aligns with your business needs (e.g., URL, File, Landing page, etc.), and enter the necessary information.
- Select between Static QR and Dynamic QR, then click Generate QR code.
- Customize your QR code using various colors, patterns, frames, and eyes, or choose among the many available templates. Upload your company logo to promote brand recognition.
- Test-scan your QR code to ensure it works properly, then click Download to save it.
Pro tip: QR TIGER's freemium plan allows you to create up to three free dynamic QR codes. You can edit a QR code and even explore advanced scan-tracking features and analytics.
Preparing for the future of GS1 QR codes
Now that you no longer need to wonder how to create a GS1 QR code, your business can easily meet Sunrise 2027, fully prepared to join other leading brands in this exciting transition.
The global shift towards standardized product identification is becoming necessary for businesses of all sizes, and this will ensure that QR codes found on product packaging meet GS1 standards.
Adopting these codes requires businesses to take a proactive approach and invest in the right QR technology. This means looking out for features rich in data privacy, tracking, customization, and editability.
It is high time we embrace GS1 QR codes. Businesses that adopt these codes early will be the ones to welcome this new age of smart packaging and globalization.
FAQs
What is the difference between a GS1 QR code and a QR code?
A GS1 QR code adopts Global Standards 1 for barcodes, ensuring that information reaches the appropriate user, regardless of language and location. They are typically used across industries for supply chain tracking.
QR codes, on the other hand, do not necessarily adhere to GS1 standards. They are a convenient tool for individuals and businesses to store and share information quickly.
How are GS1 QR codes beneficial for consumers?
These QR codes can offer customers instant access to rich product information, such as nutritional facts, sourcing, sustainability policies, and marketing content. This also fosters trust and transparency between the brand and the customers.
How to create a GS1 QR code for product traceability?
First, businesses must register with GS1, obtain a GS1 Company Prefix for their product, and encode other relevant identifiers. Second, they should find a secure QR maker that follows GS1 standards.
