What should a buyer prepare for barcode hang tags? Supply an approved barcode-to-SKU register, final-size artwork, paper and finish details, and quantities per version. Check a finished sample in the intended scanning workflow before bulk approval. A practical scan check is separate from formal barcode verification; agree any verification requirement for the actual project.
This guide covers the handoff from a buyer’s approved item register to a printed sample. For paper, finish and front-and-back artwork, use our hang tag printing guide. Keep those decisions alongside the barcode record rather than replacing them.
Buying custom hang tags with barcode? Compare custom printed hang tags for paper, size, finish and attachments, or review paper weight and thickness. When your SKU register is ready, request a barcode hang-tag quote and include the code type, artwork revision and quantity for each version in Project Details.
Build one approved barcode-to-SKU register
Prepare a table with one row for every tag version. Include the buyer’s item reference, size or colour variant where applicable, the full encoded value, the human-readable text, artwork filename and quantity. Store codes as text so spreadsheet formatting cannot remove leading zeros or display long numbers differently. Name the person responsible for confirming that each code belongs to its item.
If a retailer supplies identifiers or an approved barcode file, retain that source and revision. If an identifier is still missing, mark it pending; do not invent a number to fill the layout. Ask the buyer or retailer which barcode type and numbering route apply before releasing print artwork.
| Check | Buyer supplies | Approval record |
|---|---|---|
| Item identity | SKU and intended variant | Exact encoded value reconciled to the item |
| Printed layout | Final-size approved file and code type | Filename, revision and authorised changes |
| Use environment | Retailer or receiving-system requirements | Scanner context and required verification route |
| Version quantities | Quantity for each row | Total tag count and packing labels |
Review the barcode at the final printed size
Ask for a proof showing the code, its surrounding clear area and any human-readable characters at the actual tag size. Keep the hole, trim boundary, string, decorative printing and finishing effects away from the space required by the chosen symbol. Review both sides when assembly could hide or interfere with the code.
GS1’s barcode preparation guidance explains that symbol choice, size, placement, colours and print quality need to suit the application, including clear quiet zones. Use the requirements for your actual symbol and retailer; a single generic margin cannot cover every barcode. This reference does not establish that an individual CanKun sample has passed verification.
Separate a practical scan check from formal verification
Scan a finished printed sample in the intended workflow and compare the returned value with the approved register. Record the sample revision, scanner or receiving system, result and any failed attempts. A successful phone scan is useful as a limited check, but it does not demonstrate compliance with a retailer’s formal print-quality requirement.
When formal verification is required, agree the method, acceptance criterion, responsible party and report scope before production. Confirm whether it covers the actual paper, printing and finish proposed for your order. Ask what happens if the sample fails: revise the layout, print a new sample and repeat the relevant checks before release. Verification availability and any additional work need separate confirmation in the quotation.
Prevent version mix-ups after approval
Check a physical tag against both the artwork and the item register, not merely against another tag. For multiple sizes, colours or prices, agree how the packs will identify each version. Retain an approved sample and the matching data file for receiving checks; do not overwrite the approved register when a new variant is added.
For loose cards, separate strings or finished sets, use the hang tag packing guide to define the unit being counted. Barcode data and assembly level are separate quotation fields.
Copy this barcode hang tag enquiry brief
- Product use and destination retailer or receiving system:
- SKU/version register and quantities per version:
- Barcode type, source and exact approved encoded values:
- Final-size artwork filename, revision, paper and finish reference:
- Hole position, attachment and packing unit:
- Practical scan context and required formal verification:
- Acceptance criteria, approver and retained sample reference:
Browse custom clothing hang tags, then send your hang tag enquiry with the register and artwork. Barcode feasibility and verification scope will be confirmed against that brief.
CanKun offers custom orders with MOQ starting at 100, subject to the specification and versions. Samples are free; shipping and special requirements are confirmed separately. Sampling is usually 3 days after artwork and specification review, with bulk production usually 7–15 days after physical sample and specification approval. Shipping time is separate. Wu Jess responds within 24 hours.