Every product we buy has a barcode and usually a number line underneath it. But do you know what that means? it EAN codevery important for world trade. And here we will explain how it works and why it is important.

The abbreviation EAN stands for “European article” or, loosely translated, “European article”. Since it is considered an old term, one can also hear about GTINit means “Global Trade Item Number“. But don’t worry: these two names stand for the same thing.

Every product that can be priced, ordered, or invoiced in any category in the supply chain must have this code. And going deeper, every type of product change, such as model, size, or color, needs a unique EAN.

Using this numerical sequence, you can get information about the country of origin of the product, model, contact of the manufacturing company and other data. It helps in controlling and tracking products and makes it easier to manage inventory and sales in physical stores. Ideris adds that “when defining the EAN of Brand X, Skinny, Size 36 and Blue, this code will always be the same whether it is used in Brazil, Paris, Japan, or anywhere else in the world.” .

Another interesting point is that, despite what many might think, the EAN code sequence it’s no coincidence. For example, the first 3 digits refer to the country of origin of the product, and GS1, an association that develops and maintains global business communication standards, assigning numbering. The numbers in the middle refer to the manufacturer or distributor and other product data, and the number is the check digit.

Who creates the product EAN code manufacturer or distributor. This process is carried out on the GS1 website after the registration of the company.

You must join GS1 in order to receive an EAN.

Source: Ideris

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