GTIN-12, UPC-A

Overview

The UPC-A Code (Universal Product Code, Version A) is a 12-digit barcode standard primarily used in retail in North America. It is often referred to as UPC-12. The UPC-A Code is a specific representation of the GTIN-12 (Global Trade Item Number with 12 digits), a global standard for uniquely identifying trade items. While the UPC-A Code refers to the physical barcode printed on products, the GTIN-12 is the underlying 12-digit numerical identifier, which can also be used in other contexts (e.g., databases, e-commerce) without the barcode.

Every UPC-A Code is equivalent to a GTIN-12, but the GTIN-12 is a broader term used in global supply chains and systems beyond physical barcodes.

Characteristics of the UPC-A Code

• Numeric Code: Consists exclusively of digits 0-9.
• Barcode Format: Each digit is represented by two bars and two spaces in a machine-readable pattern.
• Length: Always 12 digits.
• Usage: Primarily used in retail for product identification at checkout, but also in inventory management and other applications.

Structure of the UPC-A Code (and GTIN-12)

The UPC-A Code and GTIN-12 share the same 12-digit structure, consisting of the following components:

1. First Digit (Number System Character):

   This digit indicates the purpose of the code:

   • 0, 6, 7: Standard UPC codes for general trade items.
   • 1: Reserved for future use.
   • 2: For items sold by weight (e.g., meat, fruit), with barcodes generated in-store.
   • 3: National Drug Code (NDC) and National Health Related Items Code (HRI) for pharmaceuticals and health products.
   • 4: For UPC codes without format restrictions, often for special applications.
   • 5: For coupons.
   • 8, 9: Reserved for future use.
2. Digits 2-6 (Manufacturer Code):

   These five digits form the manufacturer code, assigned by GS1, a global organization based in Brussels, Belgium, with national member organizations (e.g., GS1 US). The manufacturer code identifies the company producing or distributing the product.

3. Digits 7-11 (Item Number):

   These five digits represent the item number, assigned by the manufacturer to identify a specific product. Together with the manufacturer code, it forms a unique product identifier.

4. Digit 12 (Check Digit):

   The final digit is the check digit, calculated automatically using a Modulo-10 algorithm to ensure the code's accuracy. ActiveBarcode calculate and append the check digit automatically.

Relationship Between UPC-A and GTIN-12

• Identity: The 12-digit number of a UPC-A Code is identical to a GTIN-12. Both share the same structure and content.
• Difference:
  • UPC-A: Refers to the physical barcode (including the visual pattern of bars and spaces) printed on products.
  • GTIN-12: Refers to the 12-digit numerical identifier used in databases, online stores, or supply chains, without requiring a printed barcode.
• Example:
  • A UPC-A barcode on a product: 012345678905 (barcode with check digit). The same number is the GTIN-12, used in a database.
• Global Usage: While UPC-A is primarily used in North America, GTIN-12 is used worldwide in various systems, often as part of the GS1 standards, which also include EAN-13 (common in Europe) and other GTIN formats.

Comparison with EAN-13

• The EAN-13 Code (European Article Number) is a 13-digit barcode widely used in Europe and globally outside North America.
• A UPC-A Code can be converted to an EAN-13 Code by prepending a leading 0 (e.g., UPC-A 012345678905 becomes EAN-13 0012345678905).
• Both are part of the GS1 system and are compatible, with GTIN-12 and GTIN-13 being the respective numerical standards.

Implementation Notes

• GS1 Membership: To obtain a manufacturer code, a company must join GS1 (e.g., via GS1 US or GS1 Germany).
• Check Digit Calculation: The check digit is calculated using the following Modulo-10 algorithm. ActiveBarcode automatically calculate and append the check digit, so manual entry is not required.
• Check out the UPC-E Code (Universal Product Code, Version E) for a compressed, 8-digit barcode for use on small products where a full UPC-A barcode would be too large.

Conclusion

The UPC-A Code is a well-established standard for retail in North America and corresponds exactly to a GTIN-12. While the UPC-A Code describes the physical barcode, the GTIN-12 is the universal numerical identifier used in digital systems. Both are part of the global GS1 system, ensuring unique product identification across industries.

Technical data

Valid characters:	0123456789
Length:	12
Check digit:	Calculated according to Modulo 10 ActiveBarcode calculates the check digit automatically.
Type#:	UPC-A - #05 - CODEUPCA GTIN-12 - #110 - CODEGTIN12