Understanding EAN Codes: The International Benchmark for Product Identification

In the confusing world of global trade, proper and accurate identification of products happens to take a very vital position. Be you a retailer or supplier or manufacturer, tracking goods is one of the most important aspects of any enterprise. One such system that has revolutionized the identification process of products through various industries is the EAN code. But what exactly is EAN, and why is it so critical in today’s global market?

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about EAN codes, its structure and functionality, and even importance in the business logistics sector. From the EAN full form to understanding how one can generate an EAN 13 barcode, we have got you covered.

What is EAN?

For Europeans, EAN stands for European Article Number. This is the global unique identification of any product using its numbering system. Since it was first promoted in 1976, the code has become widely used as a standard in international product barcoding. As EAN was originally created for use in European markets, it has eventually become a universal numbering system worldwide, replacing numerous different numbering systems in regional areas.

An EAN number aids in easy identification, so that a product can be traced and managed all through its supply chain, starting with the point of manufacture, all the way down to the hands of the consumer.

EAN Code Structure

An EAN code consists of 13 digits. Each product gets a unique 13-digit EAN code. It is arranged in a particular manner, providing all kinds of information regarding the origin of the product. 

Here’s how a normal EAN 13 looks like:

Country Prefix (First 2-3 digits): This part defines the country where the manufacturer has his company code registered. However, that does not mean that it was produced there.

Company Prefix (Following 4-7 digits): This field is the company code allocated to the manufacturer or retailer. This field is also allocated by the manufacturer and uniquely identifies a particular product.

Check Digit (Last digit): The last digit of an EAN number is computed with an algorithm using all the digits preceding that digit. It adds redundancy to the check to verify that the barcode has actually been scanned or keyed correctly.

The most widely used form of EAN code is the EAN 13 barcodes, however, others such as EAN-8 for much smaller items that have lesser space on packaging.

Why Are EAN Codes Important?

EAN codes are highly significant to several industries, mainly retailers. Below are some of the main reasons why there is a need to have EAN 13 barcode systems:

Global Standardization: The fact that there is universal recognition of EAN codes also means standardization of product information, which is very important for companies with a global presence; it reduces confusion and ensures consistency.

Supply Chain Efficiency: The product EAN code will also serve to help one keep products inventory streamlined, ensuring timely tracking throughout the supply chain. From factory floor to retail shelves, EAN codes reduce delay as well as error by automating identification processes.

Better Customer Experience: Consumers also benefit from EAN codes. When they scan products, immediately they get the information regarding the product details, price, and origin. This will attract transparency and allow customers to make right choices.

Amazon and E-commerce Compliance: Almost all the e-commerce websites, such as Amazon, will have a requirement to enlist product EAN code for every product they list. It will help in tracing a product around the globe and remove the duplication or counterfeit products entering into the market.

How to Create an EAN Code

You are a businessman, and you want to develop EAN code for your products; you have to go through proper procedures, but it is quite simple and comprises a few steps.

Registry with GS1: GS1 is the global organization that standardizes and tracks the issuing of EAN numbers. For you to have a legitimate EAN code, you are supposed to be registered with GS1 in your country.

Get Your Company Prefix: So, after registration, you are going to get a unique company prefix. That forms the foundation for an EAN 13 barcode.

Assign Product Codes: Now that you have your company prefix, you can assign unique product codes to each product in your inventory list.

Check Digit Calculation: The final move is the calculation of the check digit, so that the barcode will be correct as well. There are also online tools and EAN barcode generators for this purpose.

EAN Barcode Generator

Producing an EAN code manually is too time-consuming. That’s why most businesses use an EAN barcode generator that quickly and faultlessly creates the necessary barcodes. Such generators help in the production of barcodes for fresh products and also conform to the GS1 standards. Having once generated a barcode, you put it on your packaging by printing it so that your inventory always stands ready for global distribution.

How to Utilize an EAN Code Generator

An EAN code generator is very useful for businesses requiring generation of barcodes when on the move. Here’s how you can tap into using it-

Add Company Prefix: First, enter the company prefix issued to you by GS1. That would form the basis of your EAN number.

Product Code Code: Enter the unique product code for the item you are printing this barcode for. This number should not match any other in your product line exactly.

Compute Check Digit The EAN code generator will calculate the check digit for you, and that will create an error-free barcode.

Download the barcode: The creator will then generate a scannable barcode that you can print out and use on your product’s packaging once everything is ready.

What’s EAN?

EAN is an abbreviation for European Article Number. However, it is understandable as it is far beyond Europe. Being a product’s identifier, the 13-digit EAN 13 barcode has become an international standard. If you ever ask, ‘What is EAN?’, the answer is clear: it changes how retailers catalog, sell, and track products.

Conclusion

EAN numbers now don’t represent just a bunch of numbers but an integral part of the streamlined recognition and tracking of goods with borders removed from the scene in the global connected economy. This not only ensures accuracy in inventory management but also ensures compliance with the regulatory norms of such businesses.

For businesses wishing to expand further into new markets or be more streamlined, investing in an EAN 13 barcode system simply makes good sense. With an EAN code generator tool, making compliant barcodes has never been easy, and the return in terms of efficiency, customer satisfaction, and trade right across the globe is undeniable.

Enter the future of product identification with EAN codes today and experience the strength of standardized, global commerce.