Short answer
Put a unique code in each product variant's Barcode field in Shopify, and stick a label with that same code on the item. Sealed retail product can use the UPC already printed on it; one-of-a-kind items need a code you create.
Where barcodes live in Shopify
Every product variant in Shopify has a Barcode field (labelled for ISBN, UPC, GTIN and similar codes). That field is what a scan is matched against, so it's the one to fill in. If a product has variants, such as sizes, each variant needs its own barcode.
Items that already have a barcode
Sealed boxes, packs and most retail product carry a manufacturer barcode (usually a UPC or EAN). Scan it into the Barcode field of the matching variant and you're done: no label to print.
One-of-a-kind items
Singles, graded slabs, vintage clothing and anything else unique needs a code you make up. Any scheme works as long as every code is unique to one variant. A simple one is a short prefix plus a running number, such as RC-000142.
- Type the code into the variant's Barcode field in Shopify.
- Print it as a label with a label printer. Code 128 is a good choice for codes that mix letters and numbers.
- Stick the label where you can scan it on camera without fumbling.
Doing many products at once
Shopify's bulk editor lets you add the Barcode column and type down a list. For hundreds of items, export your products as a CSV, fill in the Variant Barcode column, and import it back.
Keep every barcode unique
If two variants share a barcode, a scan can't say which one sold. Make sure each code appears once across your whole store before you rely on it in a show.
Test before you go live
Scan a handful of labels in ScanStation's Test Mode before the show to confirm they match the products you expect. Items whose label won't scan on the night can still be sold through Find an Item, which searches your store.
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