Barcodes: How to correctly format barcodes in Google sheets

AirPOS Support -

If you’re working with barcodes in Google Sheets, you may notice that leading zeros are automatically removed, which can make the barcode data incorrect. By formatting the column as text, you can prevent Google Sheets from stripping those zeros. Follow these steps to keep your barcode data intact:

Step 1: Import Your Google Sheet

Import the Google Sheets document that contains, or will contain, your barcode data. This can be done by doing the following:

Navigate to the "File" tab in the top left corner of the screen

Select "Import"

Navigate to the "Upload" section of the new window

Find and select the file you wish to upload

Before completing your upload make sure the box labelled "Convert text to numbers, dates and formulas" is not ticked/selected

Step 2: Select the Barcode Column

Click the letter at the top of the column where you want to store the barcodes. This will highlight the entire column.

Step 3: Format the Column as Text

  1. In the top menu, go to Format.
  2. Hover over Number in the dropdown menu.
  3. Select Plain Text.

By setting the column to "Plain Text," you’re telling Google Sheets to treat each entry as text rather than a number. This means that any leading zeros will be preserved exactly as entered.

Step 4: Enter or Paste Barcodes

  • When you type or paste barcodes into this column, Google Sheets will now preserve leading zeros.
  • If you are pasting data, format the column as text before pasting to avoid stripping any zeros.

Step 5: Verify the Formatting

After entering a few barcodes, check to ensure they’re displaying correctly with the leading zeros. If everything looks good, you’re ready to go!

After following the steps above your file should now be ready to enter your barcodes without causing leading 0's to be stripped from them. This will ensure that your barcodes are correct each time you preform a bulk import or bulk edit for your inventory.

How do I contact AirPOS Support?

You can reach our support chat by clicking on the small blue box located in the bottom left corner of your screen.

Alternatively, you can email us at Support@airpos.co.uk