Understand UPC-A and EAN-13 :
1. Usage: UPC-A is primarily used in the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
2. Number of Digits: A standard UPC-A code contains 12 digits.
3. Composition: It’s composed of a company prefix, item reference, and a check digit.
4. Barcode Length: UPC-A codes are relatively longer because they contain more digits.
5. Compatibility: Some international systems may not recognize UPC-A codes.
6. Market: UPC-A is perfect for local businesses that don’t intend to sell products internationally.
EAN (European Article Number, now known as International Article Number, but still abbreviated as EAN):
1. Usage: EAN codes are used worldwide for marking products often sold at retail point of sale.
2. Number of Digits: A standard EAN code contains 13 digits.
3. Composition: Like UPC-A, EAN is composed of a company prefix, item reference, and a check digit.
4. Barcode Length: EAN codes are slightly longer than UPC-A codes due to the extra digit.
5. Compatibility: EAN is recognized globally and is compatible with all POS systems around the world.
6. Market: EAN is ideal for businesses intending to sell their products internationally.
In terms of benefits, EAN codes offer wider compatibility and are better for businesses that plan to sell products internationally. On the other hand, UPC-A codes are perfectly adequate and potentially less complex for businesses that plan to sell products in the countries where UPC-A is standard.
