UPC vs EAN – The Ultimate Comparison

upc vs ean barcode

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The Universal Product Code (UPC) and the European Article Number (EAN) are two primary barcoding systems used globally for product identification. Originating from the US and Europe, respectively, they serve distinct markets but share core functionality – identifying a product’s unique attributes.      

This article breaks down the histories, differences, and practical applications of UPC and EAN barcode formats, providing a clear guide for businesses navigating international trade.

Historical Background

The journey of barcodes as pivotal tools in product identification began with the introduction of the Universal Product Code. Developed by IBM in 1971, the UPC barcode was envisioned as a universal product identification symbol, primarily catering to the needs of the United States and Canada. Its 12-digit structure was designed to streamline the retail checkout process, marking a significant advancement in point-of-sale technology.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Europe recognised the potential of such a system but identified a need for an additional digit to represent different countries. This led to the birth of the European Article Number (also called the International Article Number). Introduced by the International Article Numbering Association, the EAN barcode added a country-specific digit at the front, resulting in a 13-digit code. This adaptation allowed for a more global application, making it suitable for diverse countries and products.

Over time, while the UPC became the standard in North America, the EAN found widespread acceptance in other parts of the world. The coexistence of these two systems laid the foundation for the modern barcoding standards we see today, each tailored to the unique needs of their respective regions yet interconnected in the global marketplace. 

Please visit our barcode learning centre to learn more about the barcoding technology used today. 

What are UPC and EAN Codes? - A Brief Introduction

Let’s quickly learn about the two barcode symbology types

What is a Universal Product Code?

What do you mean by UPC code

Universal Product Code, often abbreviated as UPC, is a 12-digit barcode. It’s a unique identifier that helps retailers scan the price at checkout and manage their inventory efficiently. Introduced in the 1970s, the UPC was designed to uniquely identify products at the point of sale, making the checkout process more efficient. 

Types of UPC

UPC-A Barcode
UPC-E Barcode

There are two types of UPC barcodes – UPC-A and UPC-E.

UPC-A: This is the standard 12-digit Universal Product Code commonly used in the United States and Canada. It contains a unique numerical identifier for products and is widely used in retail settings for scanning and inventory management.

UPC-E: This is a condensed version of UPC-A, containing only 6 digits. It’s used for smaller packaging where a full UPC-A barcode wouldn’t fit. It can be expanded back to its UPC-A equivalent for scanning.

Check out our dedicated what is UPC code guide to learn the ins and outs of UPC barcoding technology. 

What is a European Article Number?

What do you mean by EAN barcode

European Article Number, often abbreviated as EAN, is a 13-digit barcode used mainly in Europe and other countries around the world. Like the UPC, it serves as a unique identifier for products, aiding in price scanning at checkout and inventory management.

Types of EAN

Features of EAN-13 barcode
Features of EAN-8 barcode

EAN-13: This is the standard European Article Number with 13 digits. It’s used globally and is compatible with most international scanning systems. The extra digit allows for more country codes, making it versatile for international trade.

EAN-8: This is a shortened version of the EAN-13 barcode, containing only 8 digits. It’s used for smaller products and packaging where an EAN-13 barcode would be too large. Like UPC-E, it can be expanded to its EAN-13 equivalent.

Read our comprehensive guide on what is an EAN code to learn everything about EAN barcoding technology.

EAN vs UPC - What's the Difference?

Table of differences between EAN Barcode and UPC Barcode

Here is a table that summarises the key differences between UPC code and EAN codes. 

Feature
EAN
UPC
Origin
European
North American
Number of Digits
13
12
Country Code
Included
Not Included
Leading Zero
Not Applicable
Applicable, gives individuality to UPC
Visual Elements
Longer due to extra digit
Slightly shorter
Compatibility
Globally accepted
Primarily used in the U.S. and Canada
Scanning Technology
Compatible with most global scanning systems
May face problems when global market is considered
Use Cases
Preferred in Europe and for international trade
Preferred for domestic trade within the U.S. and Canada
Conversion
Can be converted to UPC by dropping the country code
Can be converted to EAN by adding a leading zero

Let’s now take an in-depth look at the differences between UPC and EAN codes.

Number of Digits and the Leading Zero

UPC codes consist of 12 digits and do not have a leading zero. The leading zero in a UPC barcode is the initial “0” that precedes the rest of the numbers. This zero is significant when converting between UPC and EAN formats. In contrast, EAN codes are 13 digits long and often start with a leading zero, especially when converted from a UPC code. This extra digit allows EAN codes to include country-specific information, making them more versatile for international commerce.

Country Code Factor in EAN and UPC Codes

A country code in a barcode is a specific set of digits that indicate the country where the product is registered. EAN codes include a country code, allowing for more nuanced product identification and facilitating international trade. 

On the other hand, UPC codes do not have a designated country code as part of their structure. However, the manufacturer identification number in UPC can sometimes serve as an alternative to indicate the origin, although it’s not as specific as the country code in EAN. This makes EAN more versatile for global operations.

Geographical Differences

Geographically, EAN and UPC barcodes have distinct areas of usage. 

EAN codes are predominantly used in Europe and are globally accepted, making them ideal for international trade. 

On the other hand, UPC codes are primarily used in the United States and Canada and are optimised for domestic retail environments. 

These geographical preferences influence the choice of barcode for businesses based on their operational reach.

Use Cases: When to Use UPC or EAN

Choosing between UPC and EAN often depends on your target market. 

If your business is focused on the United States and Canada, UPC is the preferred choice due to its widespread acceptance in these regions. 

EAN is more suitable for companies aiming to sell products internationally or in European markets because of its global compatibility. 

Understanding your market reach is crucial in selecting the appropriate barcode system for efficient inventory management and seamless transactions.

Visual Differences

EAN codes are visually longer due to the inclusion of an extra 13th digit. This makes them easily distinguishable from UPC codes, which have only 12 digits. The visual difference is particularly noticeable when the two types of barcodes are printed next to each other.

Read our guide on how to visually identify barcode types to learn the art of visually recognising barcode types.

Variants and Shortened Versions

Both EAN and UPC have compact versions known as EAN-8 and UPC-E. These shorter barcodes are used when there is limited space on a product’s packaging. Despite their reduced size, they still offer efficient product identification.

Numeric Character Set Differences

While both EAN and UPC use a numeric character set for encoding, the vertical line and spacing patterns can differ slightly due to the extra digit in EAN. This variation may affect how certain scanning systems interpret the barcodes, although most modern scanners can read both types.

Error Detection Mechanisms

EAN and UPC barcodes both feature a check digit at the end for error verification. 

When a scanner reads the barcode, it performs a quick mathematical calculation using the other digits. If the result matches the check digit, the scan is considered accurate; otherwise, an error is flagged.

UPC VS EAN - The Similarities

List of seven similarities between EAN Barcode and UPC Barcode

Despite their differences, EAN and UPC barcodes share several key similarities. These similarities are discussed below. 

Structure

Both UPC and EAN are types of linear barcodes consisting of parallel lines with varying widths and gaps that signify distinct characters. They are composed of alternating black bars and white spaces. Both UPC and EAN codes also have human readable numbers below the pattern.  

Refer to our barcode 101 guide to learn more about barcodes, their working and types. 

Functionality

UPC and EAN barcodes serve the primary function of identifying items in retail environments, marketplaces, and storage facilities. They contribute to effective inventory control and expedite the checkout procedure, benefiting both store owners and consumers.

Variations

Shorter versions of UPC and EAN exist, known as UPC-E and EAN-8, respectively. These compact codes employ zero suppression, a method that removes leading zeros, allowing the barcode to fit on smaller products without sacrificing identification efficiency.

Error Detection

A check digit is present at the end of both UPC and EAN barcodes for verification purposes. Scanners use this digit to perform a quick mathematical check against the other digits in the code. If the check digit matches the calculated result, the scan is deemed accurate; otherwise, an error is flagged.

Global Recognition

GS1 (previously known as Uniform Code Council), the global standard-setting body for barcodes, governs both EAN and UPC systems, ensuring their international standardisation. This means that both types of barcodes adhere to a consistent structure and set of rules, making them universally recognisable and scannable. 

The GS1 governance ensures that whether you’re using an EAN or UPC, the barcode will comply with international standards, facilitating seamless trade and inventory management across borders.

Numeric Character Set

UPC and EAN barcodes use a numeric encoding system, representing numbers from 0 to 9. Each digit in these barcodes corresponds to a unique pattern of bars and spaces, which scanners interpret back into the original numbers.

Scanning Similarities

EAN is essentially an extended form of UPC. Scanning systems capable of reading EAN-13 codes are generally also equipped to read UPC-A codes. This removes the necessity for multiple scanning devices, allowing for seamless scanning of both barcode types. 

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With Triton, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re investing in a solution that elevates your operational efficiency.

Future Trends

As technology evolves, both EAN and UPC barcodes are likely to see enhancements in readability and data storage. With the rise of smart technology, we may witness the integration of these barcodes with IoT devices for real-time tracking and analytics. 

Additionally, there’s a growing trend towards adopting other barcode symbologies like QR codes, Data Matrix codes and Aztec codes, which can store more data and link directly to digital platforms. However, EAN and UPC are expected to remain industry standards for the foreseeable future due to their widespread adoption and ease of use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do EAN Codes Have a Country Code?

Yes, EAN codes have a country code. This makes them more versatile for international trade.

Can I Convert EAN to UPC?

Yes, you can convert EAN to UPC by removing the leading zero and vice versa.

Can UPC and EAN be Scanned by the Same Scanner?

Yes, modern barcode scanners are equipped with scan engines to read both UPC and EAN barcodes. 

What is the Main Visual Difference Between EAN and UPC?

EAN codes have 13 digits and are slightly longer than UPC codes, which have 12 digits. The length difference is often noticeable. 

Does BarTender Software Generate EAN or UPC Codes?

Yes, BarTender Software is able to generate both of these codes and variations.  Check out the article answering top BarTender Software questions addressing this and more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both EAN and UPC barcodes play a crucial role in product identification and inventory management. While EAN is more versatile for global operations due to its country code, UPC is a go-to choice for businesses in the United States and Canada. 

Understanding their differences and similarities can guide you in selecting the most suitable bar code system for your business needs.

We hope this article was useful. 

Thanks for reading!

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