Introduction

If you’re selling products online or managing inventory, you’ve probably encountered different types of barcodes — including EAN codes, UPC codes, ISBN codes, and QR codes. While they may look similar at first glance, each code serves a different purpose and is used in specific industries and systems.

Understanding the difference between these barcodes is crucial for accurate product identification, inventory management, and improving search visibility on platforms like Amazon, Bol.com, and eBay. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between EAN codes and other common barcodes, so you can use the right code for the right situation.

What is an EAN Code?

An EAN code (European Article Number) is a 13-digit barcode used globally for identifying retail products. It’s the most commonly used barcode format in Europe and many other regions worldwide.

Structure of an EAN Code:

• Country code – First two or three digits identifying the country of registration
• Company code – Identifies the manufacturer or retailer
• Product code – A unique identifier for the product
• Check digit – A digit used to verify the code’s validity

Purpose of an EAN Code:

• Used primarily for retail products in Europe and internationally
• Required for listing products on major marketplaces like Amazon and Bol.com
• Allows for accurate inventory management and product tracking

Example:

A bottle of water with EAN code 8712345678901 can be identified and tracked globally, ensuring that the product is recognized in any retail system.

Difference Between EAN Codes and Other Barcodes

1. UPC Code (Universal Product Code)

UPC codes are the North American equivalent of EAN codes. They are primarily used in the United States and Canada.

Structure:

• 12 digits (instead of 13)
• Country code is not included in a UPC code

Purpose:

• Used primarily in North America for retail products
• Recognized by retailers like Walmart and Target
• Works similarly to an EAN code for inventory tracking and product identification

Key Difference:

• EAN codes are 13 digits, while UPC codes are 12 digits
• EAN codes are more common in Europe, while UPC codes are more common in North America

Example:

A soda bottle sold in the US may have a UPC code 012345678905, while the same product sold in Europe would have an EAN code.

2. ISBN Code (International Standard Book Number)

ISBN codes are used specifically for identifying books and other publications.

Structure:

• 13 digits (used to be 10 digits before 2007)
• Format: Prefix – Group – Publisher – Title – Check digit

Purpose:

• Used exclusively for books and publications
• Allows publishers and retailers to track sales and inventory
• Managed by the International ISBN Agency

Key Difference:

• EAN codes are used for general retail products, while ISBN codes are reserved for books
• ISBN codes include publisher and title information

Example:

A book with ISBN code 978-3-16-148410-0 can be uniquely identified in any library or bookstore worldwide.

3. QR Code (Quick Response Code)

QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store more information than EAN or UPC codes.

Structure:

• Square-shaped grid of black and white squares
• Can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters
• Can include URLs, text, contact information, and more

Purpose:

• Used for marketing and digital interactions
• Can store web links, Wi-Fi passwords, contact details, etc.
• Scanned using smartphone cameras or QR code readers

Key Difference:

• EAN and UPC codes are one-dimensional, while QR codes are two-dimensional
• QR codes store more data and are interactive (linking to digital content)

Example:

A product packaging with a QR code linking to the brand’s website or product instructions.

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4. GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

GTIN is a general term that refers to all internationally recognized product identification codes, including EAN, UPC, and ISBN.

Structure:

• GTIN-12 = UPC
• GTIN-13 = EAN
• GTIN-14 = Used for multi-packs or product variations

Purpose:

• Provides a standardized system for identifying products globally
• Used across different industries for consistent product tracking

Key Difference:

• GTIN is a broader term that includes EAN, UPC, and ISBN codes
• EAN codes are a specific type of GTIN used in Europe

Example:

A pack of 12 bottles might have a GTIN-14 code to differentiate it from the single bottle’s EAN code.

Why Choosing the Right Code Matters

Using the wrong code or failing to provide a valid product identifier can lead to:

❌ Product rejection by marketplaces

❌ Poor search visibility

❌ Incorrect inventory tracking

❌ Lost sales due to customer confusion

For example:

• If you try to list a product on Amazon without an EAN or UPC code, the product may not be indexed or displayed properly.
• If you use an invalid or duplicate EAN code, your product could be removed from the platform.

How to Get a Valid EAN Code

If you’re selling products online or in retail stores, you need a valid EAN code to ensure proper product identification and marketplace acceptance.

✅ Make sure you’re using globally recognized EAN codes.

✅ Each product variation (size, color, etc.) should have a unique EAN code.

✅ Keep a record of your EAN codes to avoid duplication and simplify inventory management.

Tips for Successfully Using Barcodes on Marketplaces

✔️ Always verify the format and validity of your EAN code before listing a product.

✔️ For books, use an ISBN code instead of an EAN code.

✔️ For North American markets, use UPC codes if the platform supports them.

✔️ Use QR codes for marketing and interactive customer engagement.

Conclusion

While EAN codes, UPC codes, ISBN codes, and QR codes all serve different purposes, understanding their differences is essential for effective product management and sales. EAN codes are essential for selling on global marketplaces like Amazon and Bol.com, while ISBN codes are used for books, UPC codes for North American products, and QR codes for digital content and marketing.

Need a valid EAN code for your products? Get your EAN codes today at Eancodeshop.co.uk and start listing your products with confidence!