Bar Code Verification Services
(for Products and Coupons)

Products submitted for verification must be presented in their “retail form” or final form. GS1 US tests the bar code for compliance to the GS1 Standards through a verification process based on ISO/IEC 15416, ISO/IEC 15415 (ISO verification standards) and the GS1 General Specifications. This method assesses size, color, print quality and quiet zones. GS1 US also assesses bar code height, location/placement of the bar code, and the correct calculation of the check digit.

For more information please view the Terms and Conditions.

Bar code verification checklist
The following checklist should be observed to ensure best results:

	Retail item to be tested (must be in its final form) along with the completed Bar Code Verification Application
	Non-retail items
	shrink-wrapped trays (submit trays with the individual items packed inside)
	display boxes (can be sent flattened for a complete assessment)
	inner-packs and outer cartons (whole cartons can be sent flattened for a complete assessment)

Note: A removed bar coded piece/panel of an irregular shaped consumer unit (e.g., cylindrical item) cannot be assessed as a complete sample.

Bar code testing can be done on laser prints, bromides, mock-ups and proofs, but all artwork samples are issued with an interim report only. This assessment is beneficial to check the bar code size and quiet zones (light margins). However, all other assessments can only be carried out on final samples. It is strongly recommended that items in their final form are submitted to obtain a complete verification report.

A Bar Code Verification Application must accompany any submission for verification. It should specify:

	To whom the reports should be addressed to and all contact information
	Where invoices should be directed - for example if a printer submits a product on behalf of a member, this submission must be accompanied by a letter from the member accepting charges
	Products to be returned must be specified in the cover letter, otherwise the samples will be disposed of in seven days after testing. You must provide a means of returning the samples. This can be in the form of return courier tickets, return courier bag, postage paid envelope, organizing for a courier to collect the samples, or personally collecting the samples from the GS1 US offices in Lawrenceville, NJ.

Verification reports will be returned within 10 working days of the receipt of the samples. Every possible effort has been made to ensure that the information and specifications in the Bar Code Verification Reports are correct, however, GS1 US expressly disclaims liability for any errors. The GS1 US Verification report can be downloaded here.

Please note that heavy/bulky items should not be submitted for testing. This includes items over 25lb (pounds) in weight or very large items that are awkward to handle. Empty, flat packaging can be submitted for verification in this case.

Testing Fees 
A flat fee of US$15 per item. Partner Connections members receive a premium discount of US$5 per item, a 33% savings.