The Whys and Hows of GS1 QR Code for Tracking Products

The retail and consumer goods sectors depend on precise product tracking throughout the supply chain for various purposes, such as inventory tracking and recall management.

Businesses can use the GS1 QR code for tracking items by labeling a distinct, standardized QR code at the final stage of production or before transit. It can contain more than just a product code.

GS1 and QR codes

GS1 is a global non-profit group that creates a universal language for business. Their standards help everyone communicate product information in the same way. They are the authority on all things barcode.

Their work on GS1 QR has improved what a normal barcode can carry. Instead of a simple identifier, a single code may hold product details for tracking, authenticity checks, and consumer information throughout its supply path.

Retail and logistics groups are now preparing for Sunrise 2027. GS1 is pushing a global shift to QR codes that can store richer data and be scanned at every point of trade. You could call it a quiet push toward smarter trace and track systems.

More data fitted into one symbol means better awareness of where an item came from, where it moved, and what it contains. More companies are slowly shifting to this system to maintain better transparency and near real-time visibility. Supply chain industries see this upgrade as very practical.

2D barcodes are expected to be scannable at POS by 2027, combining product ID and customer engagement in a single code. A GS1 QR code generator makes adoption easier, especially for small and medium businesses, while supporting smoother system processes. Many teams rely on solutions like a QR Code Generator by Uniqode to create GS1-compliant codes that connect product data across inventory, logistics, and retail touchpoints. Tools like The QR Code Generator (TQRCG) help businesses create GS1-compliant QR codes without adding complexity, making the transition to 2D barcodes more accessible.

When customers scan the code

If a consumer scans a GS1 code using a smartphone, it opens a link chosen by the brand, depending on the information they wish to share.

GS1 does not set strict rules for customer-facing pages. Brands usually fill this space with product facts, nutrition info, instructions, or sustainability notes.

 Some also add promotions, videos, or helpful tools for buyers. In certain cases, brands may link to quick actions such as digital receipts or payments by using tools like a PayPal QR code generator, giving each product a more interactive and useful digital presence that aligns with the brand’s goals.

When supply chain personnel scan the code

Scanning a GS1 code with equipment that supports GS1 feels different for people working in supply and stock handling. The scan shows product details inside the code like GTIN, batch number, the date it was made, and when it expires.

That data goes straight into inventory or ERP software. It helps teams track every item from the moment it is produced up to store shelves.

In simple terms, these QR codes act like a shared dictionary for product information. They let businesses read and track items the same way.

This leads to better customer service through accurate product details, plus smoother stock handling because counts stay precise.

Supply chain management systems

Every company needs a system to track products. It helps record information and keep things organized.

This system usually links to inventory or ERP software, letting you manage everything from a single place.

A GS1 QR code for tracking keeps management systems in sync. 

Scanning a product registers it to the tracking system logs and notes the product's location. This process gives a complete record of the product's journey through the supply chain. 

The system collects all the data from each scan—whether at the factory, warehouse, retail store or when the customer buys the product.

GS1 QR code for tracking the product process

Here’s how using GS1 codes to track products is accounted for at every supply chain step:

Generating and assigning a unique GS1 code

Companies with valid GTINs use a GS1 QR code generator to make a unique code for every product ready to sell. Each code holds key details, including:

• GTIN: A unique product ID no.
• Batch Number: Shows which production group the item belongs to. Useful for quality checks and recalls.
• Production Date: The day the product was manufactured.
• Expiration Date: The date after which the product shouldn’t be sold.

Scanning and logging product movement

The GS1 code gets scanned from the factory to the consumer at different supply chain points. Each scan records the product's location and logs its movement in the tracking system. 

Like so:

At the factory or point of origin

Products ready for sale contain a QR code on the packaging, which is registered in the system and can be shared with the brand's partners. This helps confirm product authenticity and marks its official entry into the supply chain.

Storage or distribution stage

Products are boxed or palletized, then assigned a separate GS1 QR code that carries an SSCC. This identifies the entire shipment or container, making inventory movement easier to monitor.

For longer shipments, companies can add an extra scan to mark when a product is in transit. Some businesses even use GPS or other devices for real-time tracking, but that can be more expensive.

Retail store handling: Retail staff scan the code upon arrival to confirm receipt and record stock levels. This ensures the correct quantity is available for sale and accounted for

Point of sale: At checkout, the GS1 QR code for tracking is scanned again when a customer purchases the item. This completes the supply chain cycle. 

The story does not end here, because consumers can still scan the same code after buying. This supports brand engagement, product information access, and post-sale interaction.

Upgrade to a GS1 QR code for tracking products

Switching to a GS1 QR code is a clear upgrade for any business. It makes tracking products from creation to sale much easier and more accurate.

This leads to better data, fewer mistakes, and more efficient sales. With the Sunrise 2027 deadline coming, now is the perfect time to get ready. Adopting this technology now will prepare your business for the future of supply chain management.