

Just as English and French use the Roman character set (A, B, C, etc), the various barcode languages use bar/space patterns to convey data. Please note that there are numerous other types of barcode languages. The most common linear barcode is the UPC barcode (aka UPC-A). Typically the characters in barcode symbols consist of bar/space patterns. GTIN-14 (EAN/UCC-14): this is a 14-digit number used to identify trade items at various packaging levelsĪ barcode is a graphic symbol used to convey data.GTIN-13 (EAN/UCC-13): this is a 13-digit number used predominately outside of North America.GTIN-8 (EAN/UCC-8): this is an 8-digit number used predominately outside of North America.


The term “UPC Code” is commonly used to describe the UPC Barcode symbol, A “UPC Code” is essentially a barcode symbol encoding a 12-digit number called a GTIN-12. Here are a few of the most basic questions about UPC codes and barcodes: What are UPC Codes?īy definition UPC stands for “Universal Product Code”, so the term UPC Code is incorrectly redundant.

Accurate product identification starts with the UPC barcode since it is the key to which everything is based upon.Īs the authority on UPC implementation and global barcode provider, we are contacted daily with inquiries. UPC barcodes (aka UPC Codes) are standardized global identifiers, which enable products to be sold, reordered and tracked through supply chains. Correct product identification is necessary to sell through traditional retailers and online marketplaces, such as Amazon, Walmart, Kroger, and Ebay.
