In fact, a GS1 Company Prefix is the first part of a barcode. Let's break it down:
- The Prefix is what identifies your company
- The GTIN (partially made up of the Prefix) is what identifies your product online
- The barcode is what identifies your product at a physical checkout counter
Just check out the picture to the right!
It's important to understand that the reason retailers recommend GS1 US is because of the GS1 Company Prefix. When you get your barcodes from GS1 US the Prefix will identify your company only. If you get your barcodes from anywhere else, it's very likely that you will not be listed as the brand owner of that barcode.