EAN stands for European Article Number, which is a type of barcode used to identify products for sale in Europe and other parts of the world. EAN barcodes are similar to UPC barcodes but are more commonly used outside of North America. Here are some key points about EAN barcodes:
- Purpose: Like UPC barcodes, the primary purpose of EAN barcodes is to uniquely identify products for retail and inventory purposes. They enable efficient tracking, pricing, and sales management.
- Structure: EAN barcodes consist of a series of black bars and white spaces arranged in a specific pattern. They can be 8, 13, or 14 digits long, depending on the variation used.
- Variations: The most common EAN barcode is the 13-digit EAN-13, which is used for most products. There is also the 8-digit EAN-8, which is used for smaller products where space is limited, and the 14-digit EAN-14, which is used for package levels above the individual item.
- Numbering System: EAN barcodes use a numbering system that includes a country code, manufacturer code, product code, and a check digit for verification. The country code identifies the country or region of the manufacturer.
- Global Standard: EAN barcodes are widely used and accepted internationally, making them suitable for products sold in various countries.
- Retail Use: EAN barcodes are used by retailers to automate processes such as inventory tracking, sales management, and pricing. Scanning EAN barcodes speeds up checkout and reduces errors.
- Barcode Labels: EAN barcodes are printed on product packaging or labels. The label may also include human-readable numbers for manual entry.
- E-commerce: Similar to UPC codes, EAN codes are essential for listing products on online platforms and marketplaces. Many e-commerce platforms require EAN codes for product identification.
- Generation: Businesses can obtain EAN codes by registering with GS1, the global organization that manages barcode standards. GS1 assigns unique identification numbers to companies, which are used to create EAN barcodes.
- Advantages: EAN barcodes are flexible, accommodating different types of products and packaging. They also provide compatibility with global trade and distribution networks.
- Combined Codes: Some products use a combination of both EAN and UPC barcodes to ensure compatibility with various retail systems worldwide.
Overall, EAN barcodes play a crucial role in facilitating efficient supply chains, sales, and distribution of products across international markets.