Barcode: The Universal Language of Products

A barcode is a visual, machine-readable representation of data. It consists of a series of lines and spaces of varying widths that represent numbers and other symbols. Barcodes are used to identify and track products, letters, packages, and other items. They can be read by scanners and mobile phones with the appropriate apps.

There are different types of barcodes, including UPC (Universal Product Code), EAN (European Article Number), and QR codes. Each type has its specific use and is accepted in different regions and by various industries.

EAN: A Specific Type of Barcode

EAN, which stands for European Article Number (also known as International Article Number), is a specific type of barcode that is used globally for the identification of products in retail. An EAN code consists of 13 digits, making it an extension of the original 12-digit UPC (Universal Product Code) that is primarily used in North America.

The structure of an EAN is as follows:

• The first 2-3 digits are the country code, assigned by the GS1 organization.

• The next series of digits (usually 4-5) represents the manufacturer or the company.

• The following digits (usually 5) are the product number, assigned by the manufacturer.

• The last digit is a check digit, used to verify the accuracy of the entire code.

Key Differences

The main difference between an EAN and a barcode is that "barcode" is a general term for any form of data encoding that can be visually scanned. An EAN code, on the other hand, is a specific type of barcode used for the identification of products in retail worldwide.

Every EAN is a barcode, but not every barcode is an EAN code.

Conclusion

Efficiently managing inventory and efficiently processing orders are crucial aspects of today's retail and e-commerce. Understanding the differences between EANs and barcodes is fundamental for anyone involved in managing product information. By applying the correct coding technique, a company can effectively track, manage, and promote its products, ultimately leading to better customer satisfaction and business operations.