Whether you sell your products in a brick and mortar store or mostly online, you rely on barcodes to help keep your business running. Both EAN numbers and UPC codes are commonly used for product identification, but what’s the difference between EAN vs UPC?
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In this guide, we’ll walk you through EAN numbers, UPC codes, and how they differ to help you streamline your operations and avoid potential issues with inventory and sales tracking.
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The GTIN vs UPC Guide
An EAN number (short for European Article Number) is a 13-digit number used to identify a specific retail product. It’s part of the barcode system used globally to manage inventory, sales, and product data. EAN numbers are scanned at the point-of-sale or during inventory counts to access product information. Although the name has “European” in it, EANs are used worldwide in Europe, Asia, and beyond.
EAN numbers come in two main formats: EAN-13 and EAN-8. EAN-13 is used for most products, while EAN-8 is a shortened version that’s used on smaller products that don’t have enough room for a full 13-digit barcode.
A UPC code (short for Universal Product code) is a 12-digit barcode that’s used to identify products in retail settings, just like the EAN. Although UPCs and EANs have similar format and function, UPC codes are mainly used in the US and Canada, though they are generally scannable everywhere.
When comparing the EAN code vs UPC code, the main difference is in their structure and regional use. UPC codes are 12-digit barcodes used mostly in the US and Canada. On the other hand, EAN numbers are usually 13-digit barcodes used internationally. The extra digit in an EAN code allows for more product variations and includes a country prefix to identify the product’s origins. Despite their differences, both codes serve the same purpose: to uniquely identify retail products for inventory and checkout systems.
Both UPC codes and EAN numbers work by encoding product information into a barcode that can be read by a scanner. The lines and spaces of the barcode vary in width and spacing. Each combination corresponds to a digit (0-9). The number of bars and their arrangement is standardized so that scanners can quickly interpret them. When a cashier or warehouse worker scans the barcode, the scanner reads those numbers and pulls up the product details–like name, price, and inventory data–from a point-of-sale or inventory system.
The code itself doesn’t store the product details. Instead, it acts like a license plate. The number is linked to a database entry where all the actual information is stored. When a UPC code is scanned, the system updates inventory levels, records the sale, and applies the correct price automatically. EAN codes work the same way, just with one extra digit and a broader range for international use.
Both UPC codes and EAN numbers are used almost anywhere products are bought, sold, or tracked, including:
The main difference between EAN vs UPC is where they are used:
So, if you’re selling a product in your local store in the US, a UPC is likely all you need. But, if you’re expanding globally or listing your product on international platforms, having an EAN ensures it can be scanned everywhere.
The EAN Code Guide
While both UPC codes and EAN numbers are very useful, there situations where you do not need to use them, including:
Both EAN numbers and UPC codes are managed and assigned by GS1, a global barcode standards organization. Whether you need an EAN or UPC, you can purchase these codes through GS1.
To get your UPCs or EANs, go to gs1us.org and apply for a GS1 Company Prefix. You’ll choose how many codes you need and pay based on that number. Once approved, you’ll get access to your own set of UPC or EAN numbers. From there, you can assign each number to a specific product that you sell and generate barcodes for each.
Yes, both UPC and EAN codes can be used internationally, but EAN is the global standard. UPC codes can work internationally as many international systems and read and accept UPC codes. In fact, UPCs can be converted into EAN by adding a leading zero. However, some non-US retailers or marketplaces might require a true EAN, not a converted UPC.
Now that you understand the differences between EAN vs UPC, you might be wondering what GTIN has to do with these barcodes. EAN and UPC are specific barcode formats used to identify retail products, but they differ in format and regional use.
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses various barcode formats, including UPC, EAN, and ISBN. The GTIN is essentially the global standard for identifying products in retail and e-commerce. It helps businesses ensure their products are identifiable across borders and systems.
What Is A GTIN Number?
The differences between EAN vs UPC are small but significant. EAN numbers are primarily used in international markets, while UPC codes are used mostly in the US and Canada. Both can help you streamline your checkout and inventory processes.
When it comes to UPC or EAN barcode labels, you want to make sure you’re printing in high quality so they can be scanned. You also want labels that will last through shipping, shelving, and beyond. That’s where Coast Label comes in. Using only the best materials, we’ll manufacture barcode labels that are meant to last. Contact us today for your custom barcode labels.
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EAN numbers (or EAN codes as they’re also called) will be familiar to most as a type of barcode, but they do much more than just provide information about the price of an item. For an ecommerce seller, they’re an essential part of day-to-day business.
The EAN (European Article Number) is a standardized barcode system used to identify products worldwide, and it is a type of bar code that can be scanned by electronic point-of-sale systems. Also known as the International Article Number (IAN), it’s sometimes referred to as the ‘barcode number’ or ‘product code’.
The EAN system assigns a unique number to each product, which is represented by a barcode that can be scanned by electronic point-of-sale systems. The EAN barcode uses a binary code system, where black and white lines represent zeros and ones, allowing for reliable scanning and data retrieval. The first three digits of the EAN number represent the country code where the product was registered, followed by a unique identifier for the manufacturer or supplier, and a product code assigned by the manufacturer.
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EAN numbers are used extensively in retail and ecommerce to manage inventory, track sales, and simplify the checkout process. They’re also used in logistics and supply chain management to track products from their origin to their final destination.
EAN codes, also known as GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) codes, are used to identify products in the retail industry. There are two standard types of structure for an EAN code:
EAN-13: This is the most commonly used EAN code, consisting of 13 digits. The first two or three digits represent the country code or the region where the product was manufactured. The following group of digits represents the company prefix, which identifies the specific manufacturer or vendor. The next group of digits is the product code, which identifies the specific product. The last digit is a check digit, which is used to verify the accuracy of the code.
EAN-8: This EAN number is a shortened version of the EAN-13 code, consisting of 8 digits. The structure is similar to the EAN-13 code, but with a shorter company prefix and product code. It’s often used if the particular product is small and the code would take up more than 25 percent of its surface area.
Overall, EAN barcode numbers provide a standardized way of identifying products, which helps streamline inventory management and improve supply chain efficiency.
EAN codes offer numerous benefits to businesses, retailers, and consumers alike. Here are some of the key advantages:
By leveraging these benefits, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency and provide a better experience for their customers.
If you’re selling different versions of the same product, such as different sizes or colors, then you’ll generally need a separate EAN number for each version. Each unique version of a product should have its own distinct identifier in order to track inventory, sales, and other data.
In retail stores, EAN codes are essential for identifying products that can be easily scanned at supermarket checkouts, facilitating efficient transactions.
However, if the different versions of your product are identical in every way except for the packaging, then you may be able to use the same EAN code for all versions. In this case, the packaging would be considered a variation of the product rather than a unique version.
EAN barcodes aren’t mandatory for all products, and their use may depend on the specific market and distribution channels where you sell your products. It’s always a good idea to check with your retailers or distributors to determine their specific requirements for product identification. How do I get EAN codes for my products?
Determine the number of EAN codes you need: EAN numbers are issued in blocks, and the size of the block you purchase will depend on the number of products you need to identify. You can purchase a single EAN code or a block of codes ranging from 10 to 100,000.
Choose a GS1 Member Organization: GS1 is the global organization that manages the EAN code system. You'll need to choose a GS1 Member Organization in your country and become a member.
Register for a GS1 Company Prefix: Once you become a member of a GS1 Member Organization, you can register for a GS1 Company Prefix. This prefix will be the first few digits of your EAN codes and will identify your company as the owner of those codes.
Assign your EAN codes: Once you have your GS1 Company Prefix, you can start assigning your EAN numbers to your products. You can then use the EAN codes on your product packaging or as a barcode to help retailers and consumers identify and track your products.
It's important to note that there's a fee associated with obtaining EAN numbers through GS1, and the cost will depend on the size of the block of codes you purchase as well as your membership with the organization.
While EAN codes are widely used and accepted, there are common mistakes that businesses can make when using them. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
By avoiding these common mistakes, businesses can ensure that they are using EAN codes effectively and efficiently, reaping the benefits of improved product identification and inventory management.
EAN numbers are vital for retail and ecommerce businesses, providing a reliable system for product identification, inventory management, and efficient supply chain operations. Assigning unique codes to each product version and adhering to GS1 guidelines improves accuracy and customer experience. While not mandatory for all products, EAN codes are beneficial for streamlining processes and meeting regulatory requirements, making them essential for many businesses.
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EAN stands for European Article Number. It is a globally recognized barcode used to identify individual products for retail and e-commerce.
Yes. Each unique product version—such as different sizes, colors, or styles—needs its own EAN number for accurate tracking and inventory management.
You can obtain EAN codes by registering with GS1, the global authority for product identification. You'll receive a Company Prefix and then assign codes to your products accordingly.
EAN numbers are the numerical part of the barcode. The barcode is the visual representation that scanners read, and it’s based on the EAN number.
While not legally required, most e-commerce platforms and retailers require EANs to list, track, and manage products effectively.
No. Once assigned to a product, an EAN code should not be reused—even if the product is discontinued—to avoid confusion in databases and retail systems.