Facts About Prefix 615 Barcodes
Understanding product origin myths and the reasons why barcodes without the 615 prefix are 100% legal and globally valid.
What is a Barcode with a 615 Prefix?
Barcode numbers starting with the 615 prefix are numbers issued exclusively by the GS1 Nigeria organization. The only official way to obtain this prefix number is by registering to become a GS1 member.
This process requires you to fill out registration forms, pay joining fees, and what is often a heavy burden for SMEs: paying annual membership fees. This subscription system means you are merely 'renting' the license for the number and must continue to pay every year as long as your product is in the market.
Myth: The Barcode Indicates the Product's Country of Origin
Many people mistakenly assume that the first 3 digits on a barcode indicate the country where the product was manufactured (Country of Origin). The fact is, the prefix numbers on a barcode DO NOT indicate factory location or product origin.
Based on global industry standards, the prefix digits only indicate in which country the barcode system was registered. For example, clothing products entirely made in Lagos could use a barcode originating from the United States, and conversely, a foreign-made product could use a 615 prefix if the company registered in Nigeria.
The assumption that a barcode signifies the 'Made in' status of a product is an old myth that has long been debunked by retail experts and independent databases.
How to Show a Product is 'Made in Nigeria'?
If you want to proudly show that your product is manufactured in Nigeria, the most transparent, legitimate, and recommended ways are:
- Printing on the Packaging: Print "Made in Nigeria" clearly on your product label or packaging design. Some manufacturers also place this text near the barcode image to make it easy for customers.
- International Database Registration: After you purchase a retail barcode from us, you can register your product information in the International Barcode Database. There, you can explicitly list Nigeria as the country of origin. When customers scan the barcode using a mobile app, your product's official data will instantly appear.
Limitless International Validity
All retail barcodes are designed with global standards for use around the world. Therefore, there are virtually no 'country of origin' restrictions in modern checkout scanning systems.
Barcodes Nigeria is part of an independent network of international barcode sellers. The barcodes we distribute are currently widely used by thousands of customers in over 120 countries without any issues in retail networks and supermarkets.
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