Creating Barcode Values (Product Lookups)
Barcodes make tracking inventory faster and more accurate. A barcode is simply a pattern of lines or shapes that represents numbers or letters so machines can quickly read and identify information. The barcode value is the string of numbers or letters behind that barcode.
In Finale, barcode values are stored as Product Lookups. Think of Product Lookups as an alias for your product — similar to an alternate SKU. Instead of typing the product ID or name, you can simply scan the barcode to find or update the item.
Why Barcode Values Matter
Barcode values in Finale Inventory are important because they:
Serve as a unique identifier for products
Allow faster scanning and inventory updates
Enable tracking of items with multiple SKUs, Lot IDs, or serial numbers
Adding Barcode Values to Finale
Whether your products already have barcodes or you need Finale to generate them, there are multiple ways to create Product Lookups.
If Your Products Already Have Barcode Values
Products often arrive with barcodes assigned by suppliers, or you may already have barcodes in another system. In this case, your goal is to add those barcode values into Finale..
You can do this in several ways:
Manually: Create a Product Lookup directly from the Product Lookup screen or the Product Detail screen.
Bulk Import: Use a spreadsheet to import many Product Lookups at once.
Integration: Barcode values can be imported automatically through connected selling platforms.
Learn Barcode function on the scanner: Scan the existing barcode label on a product, and Finale will automatically create the Product Lookup.
Tip: If you use Lot IDs or serial numbers, include these details when creating Product Lookups so Finale can track inventory by batch or serial accurately.
If Your Products Do Not Have Barcode Values
If your products don’t already have barcodes, Finale automatically generates Short Codes.
What Is a Short Code?
A Short Code is a 12-digit number in standard UPC format. It is automatically assigned for each combination of Product ID, Packing, and Lot ID.
Why Use Short Codes?
Short Codes allow you to:
Scan and manage products without pre-assigned barcodes
Track inventory across warehouses and Lot IDs
Start scanning immediately — no setup required once the product is created
Note: Short Codes are internal to Finale and are not GS1-registered barcodes. They are designed for internal tracking and inventory management, not for retail or supplier use.
If You Are Tracking Serial Numbers or Lot Ids
For products managed by Lot IDs or serial numbers, refer to our additional guide: Scanning items with Lot IDs.
Need Help?
For more information on barcodes or Product Lookups, explore other Finale Inventory help articles or contact our support team at Descartes Customer Support.