A barcode is a machine-readable representation of a unique number, allowing retailers to track product sales in their inventory system. It typically consists of dark ink on a light background, forming high and low reflectance patterns that are converted to binary digits. UPCs (12 digits) and EANs (13 digits) are common types of barcodes.

UPC Barcode

What is a UPC Barcode?

UPC Barcodes are very similar to EAN-13 barcodes. There are a few differences, namely that UPC barcodes have 12 digits, and the numbers below the barcode are slightly different. The most important difference is that UPC Barcodes are used in the USA and Canada, whereas EAN-13 barcodes are used everywhere else. Books and magazines are the only types of products that don’t use EAN-13 or UPC-A Barcodes. The differences between EAN-13 and UPC-A Barcodes can be seen here.

How to get UPC Barcodes?

You can buy UPC Barcodes here. Once we receive an order, we will email you your barcodes with the images as attached files. You can then incorporate the images into your product packaging. Retailers log the barcode into their system when they receive the product for the first time. If you are changing the size of the barcode, then you should refer to the barcode standards.

Please see our FAQ page if you have any questions or contact us.

Do I need UPC or EAN format?

Where will you sell your product?
- If in the US or Canada → Proceed to UPC barcode.
- If in Europe, Asia, or other countries → Proceed to EAN barcode.
Is your product sold internationally?
- Yes → Proceed to Both UPC and EAN.
- No → Go to next step.
Is your product’s primary market in the US or Canada?
- Yes → Proceed to UPC barcode.
- No → Proceed to EAN barcode.