GTIN (Global Trade Identification Number)

GTIN refers to a ‘Global Trade Identification Number’ represented by either and UPC, EAN or ISBN formatted barcode numbers.  GTINs are utilised by businesses of all types globally to track the pricing and inventory of retail items in a supply chain.

UPC (Universal Product Code)

UPC or Universal Product Code is the universally accepted retail barcode used predominantly in the United States and Canada. A UPC barcode contains 12 digits represented through digits 0-9 only, along with quiet zones on either side of the code and start, middle, and stop symbols. The middle symbol separates the differently coded left and right sides. When a digit is used on the left side, the bars are black and with white spaces and when used on the right side the black and white are inverted. The logical reasoning for this is complex involving a mathematical formula called “parity,” however the aim is to reverse black and white allowing the scanner to determine if it’s reading the code in the correct orientation i.e. right to left or in reverse.

The UPC numbering system depends on the type of product and purpose of the code itself; the first digit of the barcode indicates the numbering system. The 10 following digits indicates product information. The digit on the far right is the checksum, which is used to test the accuracy of the scanner reading the code.

EAN (International Article Number)

EAN 13 or Eurpoean Article Number/International Article Number is a subset of the 12 digit UPC A and is the universally accepted format for retail barcodes worldwide. The EAN (European Article Number) is most widely used by businesses outside of the United States and Canada in places such as Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia and Australia. Most scanners globally are capable of reading both UPC and EAN formats interchangeably.

JAN (Japanese Article Number)

JAN or Japanese Article Numbering the name reference for an EAN-13 barcode generated in Japan. The Japanese country code prefix is identified as 45 – 49.

ISBN (International Standard Book Number)

An ISBN or International Standard Book Number is a 13 digit (formerlly 10) unique identifier for books and magazines.