What is the Process of Getting Registered for an EAN No. in India
Are you looking to take your product global or simply organise your inventory more efficiently? You’ll need an EAN Number — and in India, there’s only one official way to get it.
Read on to learn what exactly EAN Number is, where to get it from and the step-by-step process of obtaining it, without any frills.
What is an EAN Number?
EAN stands for European Article Number.
It’s a globally accepted product identification code, most commonly seen in the form of a barcode printed on retail packaging.
Each EAN is unique and assigned to a specific product and company — no two are the same.
EANs are part of the GTIN system (Global Trade Item Number), managed by GS1.
Purpose of EAN
EAN Numbers serve one purpose: product identification.
When scanned, an EAN barcode instantly provides information on:
- Product type
- Manufacturer
- Country of origin
- Price (linked via point-of-sale systems)
Retailers, distributors, and online marketplaces all rely on EANs for inventory management, billing, returns, and sales tracking.
Why is the EAN Number Important for Businesses in India?
Here’s why businesses register for EANs through GS1:
- Trade Compliance – Most modern retailers and platforms (like Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket) require GS1-verified barcodes.
- Global Standardisation – GTINs are recognised and accepted in 150+ countries.
- Inventory Accuracy – EANs eliminate duplication or product mismatch in warehouses and stores.
- Traceability – They help trace products across supply chains, crucial for food, pharma, and exports.
- Brand Credibility – A registered GTIN shows you’re a verified manufacturer or seller.
Without a GS1-issued EAN, sellers face rejections from marketplaces, regulatory issues, or even counterfeit risks.
The EAN Issuing Organisation
Only one body is authorised to issue GTIN/EAN numbers in India — GS1 India.
Established in 1996, GS1 India is a non-profit organisation that comes under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and other leading industry associations like:
- CII (Confederation of Indian Industry)
- FICCI, ASSOCHAM
- FIEO, IMC, BIS, and more
They’re the only legitimate source of barcodes in India.
Steps to Get Registered for EAN Number with GS1 India
Obtaining an EAN number from GS1 India is very simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide –
Step 1: Go to the Official GS1 India Website
Click on ‘Get a Barcode’ to start the application.
Step 2: Fill in the Application Form
You’ll need to submit:
- Business name and contact details
- Necessary supporting documents
- Turnover details
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Documents needed include:
- GST Certificate
- PAN Card
- Company registration or MSME certificate
- P&L Page
Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee
Fees depend on your annual turnover and the number of barcodes you need.
All charges are listed transparently on the GS1 India website — no agents or commissions involved.
Step 5: Get Your Company Prefix and GTIN Allocation
After verification, GS1 India will issue:
- A Company Prefix (GCP)
- Access to DataKart
- Barcode allotment letter
This is usually processed within a few working days
Step 6: Start Using EAN Barcodes
You can send barcodes for bulk printing once you generate your product GTINs using the DataKart portal.
You can take help from GS1 India’s registered solution providers as well.
Can I Buy Barcodes from Other Sources?
No.
GS1 India is the only authorised source in the country.
Many websites claim to offer cheap or “lifetime” barcodes, but these are:
- Not traceable to your brand
- Often rejected by marketplaces
- Not compliant with global supply chain standards
Always verify your barcode source at www.gs1india.org.
Conclusion
An EAN Number isn’t just a barcode — it’s your product’s digital passport.
From warehouse to shelf, from India to the world — a GS1-verified EAN ensures credibility, accuracy, and global reach.
