EAN-13 Barcode: Everything you Need to Know
In modern retail and manufacturing, barcodes are essential for quick and accurate product identification. Among the various barcode formats, the EAN-13 is one of the most widely used across the world. It enables smooth inventory handling, pricing, and sales tracking with high precision. The EAN number, also known as the European Article Number, belongs to the GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) family and is crucial for selling products both online and offline. Whether you are a manufacturer, retailer, or exporter, knowing how an EAN works ensures your products are globally identifiable and easily scannable at checkout counters.
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What is GTIN (EAN)? GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, is a universal identification code assigned to every retail product. It allows accurate tracking throughout the supply chain and ensures consistency in pricing and product data. The GTIN system is administered by GS1, an international standards organization. The EAN format is one of the most commonly used GTIN versions, especially in global retail. The EAN-13 barcode contains 13 digits that uniquely represent a product, its maker, and its origin. In simple terms, GTIN refers to the numbering standard while EAN is the barcode format that displays this number on products. Together, they help scanners read product information in stores, warehouses, and logistics networks.
Types of GTIN GTINs come in several formats, each designed for different product categories and regions: ● GTIN-8 – An 8-digit code used on very small products where space is limited. ● GTIN-12 (UPC) – Common in the United States and Canada; used for UPC barcodes on most North American retail items. ● GTIN-13 (EAN-13) – A 13-digit code widely used across Europe, Asia, and many other global markets.
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● GTIN-14 – A 14-digit code used for cartons, bulk packaging, and logistics units.
What is the EAN-13 Barcode? The EAN-13 barcode is a globally recognized 13-digit code used to uniquely identify retail items. It appears on nearly all consumer products, from food items to electronics, and is part of the GTIN system managed by GS1. An EAN-13 code allows checkout scanners to quickly retrieve the product’s name, price, and associated details, ensuring fast billing and accurate inventory tracking. Each 13-digit number represents specific information about the manufacturer and product, including packaging details and a check digit that confirms code validity.
Key Components of an EAN-13 Barcode Number Each EAN-13 barcode is structured with clearly defined sections:
Prefix (Country Code) The first 2–3 digits show the GS1 member organization that assigned the number, not necessarily the actual manufacturing country. For example, codes issued by GS1 India typically start with 890.
Company or Manufacturer Code The next 4 – 5 digits identify the company or brand, assigned when the business registers for GTINs. https://www.sundata.in/
Product Code The following 5 digits specify the individual product or variant. Every unique item must have its own product code.
Check Digit The final digit is automatically calculated using a formula to prevent errors during scanning or manual entry.
How the EAN-13 Barcode Works? An EAN-13 barcode converts the 13-digit product number into a pattern of black bars and white spaces. When scanned, these patterns are interpreted by the scanner’s laser to reproduce the original number. The system then fetches the product details price, name, and stock data from the database. Since it follows GS1 global standards, the EAN-13 barcode can be scanned anywhere in the world, ensuring seamless product identification across different retail and logistics systems.
Benefits of Using EAN-13 Barcodes Using EAN-13 barcodes offers multiple advantages:
Global Product Identification An EAN-13 gives each product a unique identity accepted worldwide.
Faster and Accurate Billing
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Scanning eliminates manual entry errors and speeds up checkout.
Efficient Inventory Management EAN-13 barcodes make it easier to track stock levels and manage inventory across warehouses, especially when integrated with a warehouse management system. Retailers can quickly identify when items are low in stock or need restocking.
Easy Integration with Online Platforms E-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and other marketplaces require valid GTINs/EANs.
Reduces Manual Errors Automated scanning ensures accurate pricing and product information.
Improves Supply Chain Efficiency From manufacturing to retail shelves, EAN-13 barcodes support smooth data flow across the supply chain, helping businesses monitor and move products efficiently.
How to Get an EAN-13 Barcode in India: Step-by-Step Process To obtain an EAN-13 barcode in India, you must register through GS1 India, the country’s authorized body for issuing GTINs.
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Step 1: Visit the GS1 India Website Open the official GS1 India site and find the barcode registration page.
Step 2: Choose the Registration Type Choose your business type manufacturer, company, or individual seller.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form Enter the relevant business and product details.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents Provide documents such as GST certificate, PAN card, and business registration proof.
Step 5: Make the Payment Pay the fee depending on the barcode package and number of codes required.
Step 6: Receive Your GTIN and Generate EAN-13 Barcodes Once approved, GS1 India will issue your GTINs, which you can then convert into EAN-13 barcodes.
The Future of EAN-13 Barcodes and Innovation While EAN-13 has been a dependable product identifier for decades, modern technologies are expanding its use. Integration with inventory software, digital
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databases, and smart retail systems is making barcode-based tracking more efficient than ever. Upcoming innovations—such as smart/interactive barcodes, QR-code hybrids, and AI-powered scanners—may enhance traditional barcodes, but the EAN-13 format will remain a key standard due to its simplicity, reliability, and universal adoption.
FAQ 1. How to read EAN-13 barcodes? Use a barcode scanner, which converts the bar pattern into the 13-digit number and displays the product information.
2. What are the rules for EAN barcodes? They must contain 13 digits, include a valid prefix, manufacturer code, product code, check digit, and meet GS1 size/readability standards.
3. Can I scan a barcode to find a product? Yes, scanning retrieves the product’s name, price, and other data from the database.
4. Can EAN-13 start with 0? Yes, certain GS1 prefixes start with 0, so it's valid.
5. What is the minimum size for an EAN-13 barcode?
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The recommended minimum is 37.29 mm (width) × 25.93 mm (height).
Conclusion The EAN-13 barcode is a globally recognized standard for product identification that ensures accuracy, efficiency, and smooth operations across retail, logistics, and eCommerce. By using a unique GTIN number, businesses can track inventory, manage sales, and sell products internationally without issues. Registering your EAN-13 barcode through authorized channels, like GS1 India with the support of trusted providers such as Sundata, ensures your products are compliant and ready for global trade. As technology evolves, EAN-13 barcodes will continue to play a vital role in product identification, inventory management, and seamless retail operations worldwide.
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