Table of Contents
A simple black and white label on each product that you purchase has a special global identity, but have you ever wondered what that black and white label signifies? It is called the EAN.
EAN is the one of the most commonly used barcode systems in the world which stands for European Article Number. EAN originated in Europe, but today EAN is globally used for tracking products in local stores to supply chains.
Whether you’re buying a packet of chips, a shampoo bottle or managing warehouse inventory, the EAN does its job by providing a tracking system for the products. This blog will cover key aspects of EAN- its full form, structure, registration process, difference between EAN and UPC, etc.
What is the full form of EAN?
EAN is used for tracking of products all over the world. EAN stands for European Article Number, it actually originated in Europe but gradually the use of EAN increased and it is now used all over the world by all categories of sellers. This is one of the reasons why sometimes EAN is also referred to as International Article Number, especially in non-european regions.
The barcode is used to identify different products uniquely across the globe. It give each product an unique identity and makes it easier for sellers and manufacturers to keep a track of their sales.
What is the EAN Barcode System?
The black and white label you see on the packaging of the products are not just lines, it is a data carrying product identifier which ensures that the product details can be instantly tracked and retrieved quickly and accurately. Some of the commonly used types of EAN codes are:
1. EAN-13
EAN-13 is a type of EAN code that contains 13 digits, it is the most commonly used format for EAN codes globally. It is used for almost all retail products.
- 13 digits
- Most commonly used format
- Used for almost all retail products
2. EAN-8
EAN-8 is also a type of EAN code but it is the smaller version of EAN-13. It contains only 8 digits in the code and it is specially designed for products with small packaging where the space is limited like chewing gum, lipstick, candies etc.
- 8 digits
- Designed for small packages
- Mostly used in lipsticks, candies etc.
Do Check: List of all Important Full Forms
Structure of an EAN Code
Every digit in an EAN barcode has a special purpose and meaning. Let’s understand the structure of EAN-13 and EAN-8 step-by-step to get a clear understanding of the European Article Number System practiced all over the world.
EAN-13
For EAN-13, the first three digits of the code represents the country code, where the manufacturer’s code was assigned.
For example:
- 890 – India
- 500-509 – UK
- 400-440 – Germany
- 690-695 – China
The next few digits are the manufacturer code which is assigned by the national GS1 authority. After the Manufacturer code a product code is mentioned which is unique for each product. At last, a check digit is mentioned which is calculated automatically to verify that the code is correctly scanned and composed.
| Part | Description | Digits |
| 1 | Country Code | 3 |
| 2 | Manufacturer Code | 4-6 |
| 3 | Product Code | 3-5 |
| 4 | Check digit | 1 |
| TOTAL | 13 digits |
EAN-8
For EAN-8, the first two to three digits are the country code or the prefix which is assigned by GS1 (Global Standards Organization), it helps to identify the country and the product category.
For example:
- 45 or 49 – Japan
The next 4-5 digits are the item reference number which is unique to each product or item variant. It helps to differentiate between similar products. Then comes the last digit of the barcode, which is the check digit. It is automatically calculated using a checksum formula after the accuracy check.
| Part | Description | Digits |
| 1 | Prefix Code | 2-3 |
| 2 | Item Reference Number | 4-5 |
| 3 | Check digit | 1 |
| TOTAL | 8 Digits |
Why is EAN important?
EAN: European Article Number is an important aspect from the manufacturer’s, retailer’s or supplier’s perspective around the world.
Some of key features why EAN is considered important all over the world are:
- Global Standardisation: EAN is one system used by manufacturers, retailers and suppliers all around the world.
- Inventory Accuracy: EAN ensures accuracy, it helps to speed up product identification and reduce the chances of errors.
- Faster Checkout: It helps you to avoid long queues, as it is a faster method for billing and it enables quickscanning at point-of-sale terminals.
- Efficient supply chains: Traders or manufacturers selling their products internationally can sometimes face problems in international tracking of goods but EAN ensures easy tracking of products globally.
- Product Authentication: It helps to reduce the fake or unauthorized copies of real products by providing genuine authentication.
Industries that are Heavily Dependent on EAN Codes
- FMCG and Retail: EAN codes are used by supermarkets, grocery stores, and departmental stores to control large stocks, accelerate billing, and avoid stockouts.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care: Each variation of cosmetic products (like size, shade, scent) requires a different EAN so that products can be differentiated clearly.
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: Medications and medical devices utilize EANs to ensure safety, it also helps to prevent duplication of products, and guarantee easy traceability.
- Printing: EAN codes (generally synonymous with ISBNs: International Standard Book Number) are employed by books, magazines, and newspapers to label titles and editions.
- Production and Warehousing: It facilitates tracking of unfinished goods and finished goods through production, packaging, and distribution processes.
- Internet Shopping and Online Sellers: Various websites like Amazon, Flipkart, and eBay mandate vendors to post products against valid EAN codes to ensure search accuracy and inventory synchronization.
EAN vs UPC: What’s the Difference?
EAN and UPC (Universal Product Code) are the two barcode systems which are often confused with one another. Although there’s a huge difference between both EAN and UPC, the overall structure is quite similar for both EAN and UPC. Therefore, people often confuse EAN with UPC.
Check out the below table to clear all your confusions regarding EAN and UPC.
| Feature | EAN | UPC |
| Digits | 13 or 8 (EAN-13 or EAN-8) | 12 (UPC-A) |
| Region | International | Primarily USA & Canada |
| Compatibility | Globally | Mainly in North America |
| Prefixes | Includes country prefixes | No country code |
Where is EAN used?
EAN is used almost everywhere, for the sale of smallest to largest of products because it helps to differentiate the products and to keep a track of all the products. It does not matter if it’s the case of local supplier or warehouse inventory management, EANs are used everywhere.
Some of the key examples where EAN is most commonly used are:
- Retail Products: Supermarkets, clothing stores, cosmetics
- Manufacturing: For batch tracking and quality control
- Healthcare: Pharmaceutical products and devices
- Logistics & Warehousing: For shipment tracking and inventory management
How to get an EAN for your product?
You can generate EAN (European Article Number) barcodes legally by getting it registered with GS1, the official body for the registration of European Article Number.
Follow the below procedure step-by-step to successfully register EAN for your product.
- Step 1: Register your product with GS1 (Global Standards 1), the official body for EAN registration.
- Step 2: Get a Manufacturer code, it is a unique code for your business given by GS1.
- Step 3: Assign product codes to each product for easy tracking. This also helps in differentiating items and variation.
- Step 4: For printing and applying the codes on the products, use barcode softwares.
Read More Articles for Full Form
FAQs on EAN Full Form
Is the EAN used only in Europe?
No. Despite the name, EAN is used globally. It’s a standard recognized in over 100 countries. Although it originated in Europe, it is now used worldwide.
What is the cost of getting an EAN?
Cost for getting EAN varies by country and number of barcodes required. It typically includes a one-time registration fee and an annual license fee.
Can I use free EAN generators available online?
While some online tools exist, official EAN codes must come from GS1 to ensure uniqueness and compliance.
