What is an EAN code?

The EAN code is the barcode you see on almost every product. It makes a product recognizable worldwide, from the checkout to your warehouse. Below you will learn how an EAN code is built, how to request it and why you cannot make one up yourself.

What is an EAN code?

EAN stands for European Article Number, known internationally as the International Article Number since 2009. It is a system for tracking products unambiguously throughout a chain. Every EAN code is unique and consists of thirteen digits, which you recognize as the barcode on the packaging.

The structure of an EAN code

The thirteen digits are not random, they follow a fixed structure:

1. Country code: indicates where the manufacturer is registered.
2. Manufacturer code: identifies the specific company.
3. Product code: the manufacturer assigns it to each individual product.
4. Check digit: a control number a scanner uses to verify that the code is correct.

Why EAN codes matter

An EAN code is a global standard for identifying the same product the same way everywhere, across companies, countries and languages. At the checkout that means fast, error-free processing, and in your warehouse it forms the basis of your inventory management: scan the code and you know exactly what you are holding. Online marketplaces often require an EAN code before you are allowed to list a product, and if you sell on several channels, that same code keeps your product data consistent everywhere.

How do you get an EAN code?

EAN codes are issued by GS1, the international non-profit behind the system. You register your company, request the number of codes that suits your product range and receive a unique manufacturer code that you use to compose your own EAN code per product. Registration and codes come with costs, depending on the country and the number.

Why you cannot make up codes yourself

The value of an EAN code lies in the guarantee that it is unique worldwide. If you make one up, there is a chance it is already in use for another product, with errors throughout the chain as a result. Self-invented codes are also not recognized by international systems and are rejected by many marketplaces. Request your codes officially from GS1 and your products will be recognizable, traceable and sellable everywhere.

EAN codes in your inventory management

An EAN code only becomes truly valuable once you use it in your system. In ShopLinkr you link the EAN to your product, so in the warehouse you only need to scan to pick and book in the right item. If you sell the same product across several channels, such as Shopify, WooCommerce or Kaufland, ShopLinkr keeps your inventory in sync in real time and prevents you from selling something that is already out of stock. When picking, you follow a smart route through your warehouse and confirm each item with a scan via the pick lists.

Connect your sales channels, scan on EAN and keep your stock in sync across every channel. Try ShopLinkr free for 14 days and see how smoothly your warehouse runs once your products are in order.