What is an EAN code?
We have all heard of an EAN code, but what is it actually? What does it consist of, and why is it so important? You can read all about it in this blog.
What is an EAN code?
We have all heard of an EAN code, but what is it actually? What does it consist of, and why is it so important? You can read all about it in this blog.
What is an EAN code?
We have all heard of an EAN code, but what is it actually? What does it consist of, and why is it so important? You can read all about it in this blog.
What is an EAN code?
We have all heard of an EAN code, but what is it actually? What does it consist of, and why is it so important? You can read all about it in this blog.
View all blogs
24 november 2023
In the world of e-commerce, retail, and inventory management, the EAN code plays a key role. These unique identification codes are essential for efficiently managing and tracking products in the supply chain. In this comprehensive article, we explore what EAN codes are, their structure, importance, how to obtain them, and why they cannot be invented by yourself.
What is an EAN Code?
EAN stands for "European Article Number", although since 2009 it has been internationally known as the International Article Number. This system was originally developed to help businesses track products in a supply chain. Each EAN code is unique and consists of a series of 13 digits. This code is typically printed as a barcode on product packaging and can be scanned at checkout in stores or when managing inventory.
Structure of an EAN Code
The 13 digits of an EAN code are not random; they follow a specific structure:
Country Code: The first 2 to 3 digits indicate the country where the manufacturer of the product is registered.
Manufacturer Code: The next series of digits (usually 4 to 5 digits) identifies the specific manufacturer or company.
Product Code: These digits are assigned by the manufacturer to each individual product.
Check Digit: The last digit is a check digit, calculated using a special formula, to verify the accuracy of the entire code.
The Importance of EAN Codes
EAN codes, which stand for European Article Number (now known as International Article Number), are more than just barcodes stuck to products; they are an essential link in the chain of modern trade and logistics. Below is an extensive explanation of why EAN codes are so crucial:
Global Standardization
EAN codes provide a uniform and standardized way to identify products worldwide. This standardization is fundamental for international trade, allowing products to be sold and purchased without confusion or language barriers.
Essential for Inventory Management
They are the backbone of any inventory management system, allowing businesses to monitor and manage their inventory levels. Correct EAN codes ensure that inventories can be tracked accurately and that reports on inventory status are reliable.
Accelerating Sales Transactions
At the checkout, EAN codes enable quick and accurate processing of sales transactions. They reduce human errors and increase efficiency, resulting in shorter lines and better customer satisfaction.
Necessary for Online Sales
Online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms often require EAN codes to sell products. This ensures that consumers know exactly what they are buying and that products can be easily compared.
Traceability and Safety
EAN codes ensure traceability of products throughout the supply chain, from production to end user. This is not only important for logistical efficiency but also for consumer safety, such as during product recalls.
Supporting Automation
In an era where automation plays a key role, EAN codes help automate the management of incoming and outgoing goods in warehouses, resulting in significant cost savings and increased productivity.
Insights into Sales and Analysis
Companies use EAN codes to collect sales data, gaining insights into consumer behavior and sales patterns. This can lead to better strategic decisions and more targeted marketing efforts.
Support for Omnichannel Strategies
For companies adopting an omnichannel approach, where the customer experience needs to be consistent across various channels, EAN codes are essential for seamless integration of product data.
Legal Compliance
In many countries, EAN codes are required for certain categories of products. Therefore, correct usage of these codes is also a matter of compliance with laws and regulations.
Reliability and Consumer Trust
By using official EAN codes, companies demonstrate that they are part of a global system of reliable trade. This strengthens consumer trust in the products they purchase.
How Do I Obtain an EAN Code?
To obtain an EAN code for your products, you must follow these steps:
Register with a GS1 Organization: GS1 is an international non-profit organization responsible for issuing EAN codes. You must register your company with a local GS1 organization to receive EAN codes.
Submit an Application: After registration, you can submit an application for a certain number of EAN codes, depending on the number of products you wish to sell.
Code Assignment: GS1 will assign you a unique manufacturer code. With this code, you can generate a unique EAN code for each of your products.
Costs: Be aware that there are costs associated with registering with GS1 and obtaining EAN codes. These costs can vary depending on the country and the number of codes needed.
Do You Need an EAN Code?
Whether you need an EAN code depends on various factors:
Product Type and Sales Channel: For most physical products sold in stores or on large online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, an EAN code is required.
International Sales: If you sell products internationally, an EAN code is almost indispensable for streamlined logistics and customs processes.
Inventory Management: For efficient inventory management and tracking of products within supply chains, EAN codes are very useful.
Why You Cannot Invent EAN Codes Yourself
EAN codes are not just random sequences of numbers that companies can create at will. They are designed to fulfill a number of very specific functions in global trade and inventory management. Here are some key reasons why EAN codes must be officially obtained and cannot be invented by yourself:
Global Uniqueness
Every product that is available in commerce must have a unique identifier. This ensures that there are no two products with the same code, which is crucial for accurate inventory management and sales processing. If you were to invent an EAN code yourself, you risk the chance that this code already exists, which can lead to mistakes and confusion throughout the supply chain.
International Compatibility
EAN codes must be recognized by all parties in the supply chain, from manufacturers and distributors to retailers and customers. By inventing codes yourself, you risk them not being recognized by international systems, meaning your products might not be sold or tracked internationally.
Data Integrity
The integrity of inventory data is essential for companies to maintain accurate inventory control, financial reporting, and business planning. If EAN codes are not reliable, this can lead to serious discrepancies in inventory data and financial losses.
Retailer Requirements
Many retailers, especially online marketplaces like Amazon, require products to have an official EAN code before being offered on their platforms. Self-invented codes will simply not be accepted, which could lead to your products being unsellable.
Legal and Commercial Compliance
There are legal requirements for labeling products that compel companies to use official coding systems such as EAN. Not complying with these requirements can result in legal issues and fines.
Protection Against Fraud
Randomly generating EAN codes can be seen as an attempt at fraud, especially if it leads to the sale of products that are not accurately described or tracked. Official codes help prevent fraud and ensure consumer trust.
Efficient Product Recalls
In the event of a product recall, it is essential that the relevant products can be quickly and accurately identified. This is only possible with officially assigned EAN codes.
Support for Marketing and Sales Analyses
EAN codes enable companies to analyze sales patterns and develop targeted marketing strategies. Without valid codes, these analyses could lead to incorrect conclusions and missed opportunities.
In short, inventing EAN codes undermines the whole purpose of a standardized and reliable product identification system. Obtaining official EAN codes via GS1 ensures that your products are globally recognizable, traceable, and marketable.
Conclusion
EAN codes are a fundamental pillar in today's trade and e-commerce. They not only provide a universal standard for product identification but are also crucial for efficient inventory management, smooth logistical operations, and accurate sales transactions. Obtaining official EAN codes through GS1 is essential for the legitimacy and global recognition of products. Their application extends beyond just retail, influencing areas such as healthcare and manufacturing. For modern businesses, EAN codes are indispensable for success in an increasingly connected and automated world.
In the world of e-commerce, retail, and inventory management, the EAN code plays a key role. These unique identification codes are essential for efficiently managing and tracking products in the supply chain. In this comprehensive article, we explore what EAN codes are, their structure, importance, how to obtain them, and why they cannot be invented by yourself.
What is an EAN Code?
EAN stands for "European Article Number", although since 2009 it has been internationally known as the International Article Number. This system was originally developed to help businesses track products in a supply chain. Each EAN code is unique and consists of a series of 13 digits. This code is typically printed as a barcode on product packaging and can be scanned at checkout in stores or when managing inventory.
Structure of an EAN Code
The 13 digits of an EAN code are not random; they follow a specific structure:
Country Code: The first 2 to 3 digits indicate the country where the manufacturer of the product is registered.
Manufacturer Code: The next series of digits (usually 4 to 5 digits) identifies the specific manufacturer or company.
Product Code: These digits are assigned by the manufacturer to each individual product.
Check Digit: The last digit is a check digit, calculated using a special formula, to verify the accuracy of the entire code.
The Importance of EAN Codes
EAN codes, which stand for European Article Number (now known as International Article Number), are more than just barcodes stuck to products; they are an essential link in the chain of modern trade and logistics. Below is an extensive explanation of why EAN codes are so crucial:
Global Standardization
EAN codes provide a uniform and standardized way to identify products worldwide. This standardization is fundamental for international trade, allowing products to be sold and purchased without confusion or language barriers.
Essential for Inventory Management
They are the backbone of any inventory management system, allowing businesses to monitor and manage their inventory levels. Correct EAN codes ensure that inventories can be tracked accurately and that reports on inventory status are reliable.
Accelerating Sales Transactions
At the checkout, EAN codes enable quick and accurate processing of sales transactions. They reduce human errors and increase efficiency, resulting in shorter lines and better customer satisfaction.
Necessary for Online Sales
Online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms often require EAN codes to sell products. This ensures that consumers know exactly what they are buying and that products can be easily compared.
Traceability and Safety
EAN codes ensure traceability of products throughout the supply chain, from production to end user. This is not only important for logistical efficiency but also for consumer safety, such as during product recalls.
Supporting Automation
In an era where automation plays a key role, EAN codes help automate the management of incoming and outgoing goods in warehouses, resulting in significant cost savings and increased productivity.
Insights into Sales and Analysis
Companies use EAN codes to collect sales data, gaining insights into consumer behavior and sales patterns. This can lead to better strategic decisions and more targeted marketing efforts.
Support for Omnichannel Strategies
For companies adopting an omnichannel approach, where the customer experience needs to be consistent across various channels, EAN codes are essential for seamless integration of product data.
Legal Compliance
In many countries, EAN codes are required for certain categories of products. Therefore, correct usage of these codes is also a matter of compliance with laws and regulations.
Reliability and Consumer Trust
By using official EAN codes, companies demonstrate that they are part of a global system of reliable trade. This strengthens consumer trust in the products they purchase.
How Do I Obtain an EAN Code?
To obtain an EAN code for your products, you must follow these steps:
Register with a GS1 Organization: GS1 is an international non-profit organization responsible for issuing EAN codes. You must register your company with a local GS1 organization to receive EAN codes.
Submit an Application: After registration, you can submit an application for a certain number of EAN codes, depending on the number of products you wish to sell.
Code Assignment: GS1 will assign you a unique manufacturer code. With this code, you can generate a unique EAN code for each of your products.
Costs: Be aware that there are costs associated with registering with GS1 and obtaining EAN codes. These costs can vary depending on the country and the number of codes needed.
Do You Need an EAN Code?
Whether you need an EAN code depends on various factors:
Product Type and Sales Channel: For most physical products sold in stores or on large online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, an EAN code is required.
International Sales: If you sell products internationally, an EAN code is almost indispensable for streamlined logistics and customs processes.
Inventory Management: For efficient inventory management and tracking of products within supply chains, EAN codes are very useful.
Why You Cannot Invent EAN Codes Yourself
EAN codes are not just random sequences of numbers that companies can create at will. They are designed to fulfill a number of very specific functions in global trade and inventory management. Here are some key reasons why EAN codes must be officially obtained and cannot be invented by yourself:
Global Uniqueness
Every product that is available in commerce must have a unique identifier. This ensures that there are no two products with the same code, which is crucial for accurate inventory management and sales processing. If you were to invent an EAN code yourself, you risk the chance that this code already exists, which can lead to mistakes and confusion throughout the supply chain.
International Compatibility
EAN codes must be recognized by all parties in the supply chain, from manufacturers and distributors to retailers and customers. By inventing codes yourself, you risk them not being recognized by international systems, meaning your products might not be sold or tracked internationally.
Data Integrity
The integrity of inventory data is essential for companies to maintain accurate inventory control, financial reporting, and business planning. If EAN codes are not reliable, this can lead to serious discrepancies in inventory data and financial losses.
Retailer Requirements
Many retailers, especially online marketplaces like Amazon, require products to have an official EAN code before being offered on their platforms. Self-invented codes will simply not be accepted, which could lead to your products being unsellable.
Legal and Commercial Compliance
There are legal requirements for labeling products that compel companies to use official coding systems such as EAN. Not complying with these requirements can result in legal issues and fines.
Protection Against Fraud
Randomly generating EAN codes can be seen as an attempt at fraud, especially if it leads to the sale of products that are not accurately described or tracked. Official codes help prevent fraud and ensure consumer trust.
Efficient Product Recalls
In the event of a product recall, it is essential that the relevant products can be quickly and accurately identified. This is only possible with officially assigned EAN codes.
Support for Marketing and Sales Analyses
EAN codes enable companies to analyze sales patterns and develop targeted marketing strategies. Without valid codes, these analyses could lead to incorrect conclusions and missed opportunities.
In short, inventing EAN codes undermines the whole purpose of a standardized and reliable product identification system. Obtaining official EAN codes via GS1 ensures that your products are globally recognizable, traceable, and marketable.
Conclusion
EAN codes are a fundamental pillar in today's trade and e-commerce. They not only provide a universal standard for product identification but are also crucial for efficient inventory management, smooth logistical operations, and accurate sales transactions. Obtaining official EAN codes through GS1 is essential for the legitimacy and global recognition of products. Their application extends beyond just retail, influencing areas such as healthcare and manufacturing. For modern businesses, EAN codes are indispensable for success in an increasingly connected and automated world.
In the world of e-commerce, retail, and inventory management, the EAN code plays a key role. These unique identification codes are essential for efficiently managing and tracking products in the supply chain. In this comprehensive article, we explore what EAN codes are, their structure, importance, how to obtain them, and why they cannot be invented by yourself.
What is an EAN Code?
EAN stands for "European Article Number", although since 2009 it has been internationally known as the International Article Number. This system was originally developed to help businesses track products in a supply chain. Each EAN code is unique and consists of a series of 13 digits. This code is typically printed as a barcode on product packaging and can be scanned at checkout in stores or when managing inventory.
Structure of an EAN Code
The 13 digits of an EAN code are not random; they follow a specific structure:
Country Code: The first 2 to 3 digits indicate the country where the manufacturer of the product is registered.
Manufacturer Code: The next series of digits (usually 4 to 5 digits) identifies the specific manufacturer or company.
Product Code: These digits are assigned by the manufacturer to each individual product.
Check Digit: The last digit is a check digit, calculated using a special formula, to verify the accuracy of the entire code.
The Importance of EAN Codes
EAN codes, which stand for European Article Number (now known as International Article Number), are more than just barcodes stuck to products; they are an essential link in the chain of modern trade and logistics. Below is an extensive explanation of why EAN codes are so crucial:
Global Standardization
EAN codes provide a uniform and standardized way to identify products worldwide. This standardization is fundamental for international trade, allowing products to be sold and purchased without confusion or language barriers.
Essential for Inventory Management
They are the backbone of any inventory management system, allowing businesses to monitor and manage their inventory levels. Correct EAN codes ensure that inventories can be tracked accurately and that reports on inventory status are reliable.
Accelerating Sales Transactions
At the checkout, EAN codes enable quick and accurate processing of sales transactions. They reduce human errors and increase efficiency, resulting in shorter lines and better customer satisfaction.
Necessary for Online Sales
Online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms often require EAN codes to sell products. This ensures that consumers know exactly what they are buying and that products can be easily compared.
Traceability and Safety
EAN codes ensure traceability of products throughout the supply chain, from production to end user. This is not only important for logistical efficiency but also for consumer safety, such as during product recalls.
Supporting Automation
In an era where automation plays a key role, EAN codes help automate the management of incoming and outgoing goods in warehouses, resulting in significant cost savings and increased productivity.
Insights into Sales and Analysis
Companies use EAN codes to collect sales data, gaining insights into consumer behavior and sales patterns. This can lead to better strategic decisions and more targeted marketing efforts.
Support for Omnichannel Strategies
For companies adopting an omnichannel approach, where the customer experience needs to be consistent across various channels, EAN codes are essential for seamless integration of product data.
Legal Compliance
In many countries, EAN codes are required for certain categories of products. Therefore, correct usage of these codes is also a matter of compliance with laws and regulations.
Reliability and Consumer Trust
By using official EAN codes, companies demonstrate that they are part of a global system of reliable trade. This strengthens consumer trust in the products they purchase.
How Do I Obtain an EAN Code?
To obtain an EAN code for your products, you must follow these steps:
Register with a GS1 Organization: GS1 is an international non-profit organization responsible for issuing EAN codes. You must register your company with a local GS1 organization to receive EAN codes.
Submit an Application: After registration, you can submit an application for a certain number of EAN codes, depending on the number of products you wish to sell.
Code Assignment: GS1 will assign you a unique manufacturer code. With this code, you can generate a unique EAN code for each of your products.
Costs: Be aware that there are costs associated with registering with GS1 and obtaining EAN codes. These costs can vary depending on the country and the number of codes needed.
Do You Need an EAN Code?
Whether you need an EAN code depends on various factors:
Product Type and Sales Channel: For most physical products sold in stores or on large online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, an EAN code is required.
International Sales: If you sell products internationally, an EAN code is almost indispensable for streamlined logistics and customs processes.
Inventory Management: For efficient inventory management and tracking of products within supply chains, EAN codes are very useful.
Why You Cannot Invent EAN Codes Yourself
EAN codes are not just random sequences of numbers that companies can create at will. They are designed to fulfill a number of very specific functions in global trade and inventory management. Here are some key reasons why EAN codes must be officially obtained and cannot be invented by yourself:
Global Uniqueness
Every product that is available in commerce must have a unique identifier. This ensures that there are no two products with the same code, which is crucial for accurate inventory management and sales processing. If you were to invent an EAN code yourself, you risk the chance that this code already exists, which can lead to mistakes and confusion throughout the supply chain.
International Compatibility
EAN codes must be recognized by all parties in the supply chain, from manufacturers and distributors to retailers and customers. By inventing codes yourself, you risk them not being recognized by international systems, meaning your products might not be sold or tracked internationally.
Data Integrity
The integrity of inventory data is essential for companies to maintain accurate inventory control, financial reporting, and business planning. If EAN codes are not reliable, this can lead to serious discrepancies in inventory data and financial losses.
Retailer Requirements
Many retailers, especially online marketplaces like Amazon, require products to have an official EAN code before being offered on their platforms. Self-invented codes will simply not be accepted, which could lead to your products being unsellable.
Legal and Commercial Compliance
There are legal requirements for labeling products that compel companies to use official coding systems such as EAN. Not complying with these requirements can result in legal issues and fines.
Protection Against Fraud
Randomly generating EAN codes can be seen as an attempt at fraud, especially if it leads to the sale of products that are not accurately described or tracked. Official codes help prevent fraud and ensure consumer trust.
Efficient Product Recalls
In the event of a product recall, it is essential that the relevant products can be quickly and accurately identified. This is only possible with officially assigned EAN codes.
Support for Marketing and Sales Analyses
EAN codes enable companies to analyze sales patterns and develop targeted marketing strategies. Without valid codes, these analyses could lead to incorrect conclusions and missed opportunities.
In short, inventing EAN codes undermines the whole purpose of a standardized and reliable product identification system. Obtaining official EAN codes via GS1 ensures that your products are globally recognizable, traceable, and marketable.
Conclusion
EAN codes are a fundamental pillar in today's trade and e-commerce. They not only provide a universal standard for product identification but are also crucial for efficient inventory management, smooth logistical operations, and accurate sales transactions. Obtaining official EAN codes through GS1 is essential for the legitimacy and global recognition of products. Their application extends beyond just retail, influencing areas such as healthcare and manufacturing. For modern businesses, EAN codes are indispensable for success in an increasingly connected and automated world.
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Clear explanation (1-on-1)
Do you want to always be informed of our latest developments?
Sign up for the newsletter.
Easily terminable
Always up-to-date
Schedule a free demo
Clear explanation (1-on-1)
Do you want to always be informed of our latest developments?
Sign up for the newsletter.
Easily terminable
Always up-to-date
Schedule a free demo
Clear explanation (1-on-1)
Do you want to always be informed of our latest developments?
Sign up for the newsletter.
Easily terminable
Always up-to-date