EAN Barcodes by Country

EAN (European Article Number) barcodes, now officially known as International Article Number barcodes, are essential for global trade and logistics. They facilitate the identification of products in retail stores, warehouses, and supply chains.

Structure of EAN Barcodes

EAN barcodes typically come in two formats: EAN-13 and EAN-8. The most common is the EAN-13 barcode, which consists of 13 digits divided into four main parts:

1. Country Code (GS1 Prefix): The first 2-3 digits represent the country or region where the barcode was registered. It does not necessarily indicate the product’s origin.
2. Manufacturer Code: Following the country code, this part identifies the manufacturer or company responsible for the product.
3. Product Code: This segment is assigned by the manufacturer to identify the specific product.
4. Check Digit: The last digit is a checksum used to verify the barcode’s accuracy.

EAN-8 barcodes are shorter and used for smaller items. They follow a similar structure but with 8 digits in total.

EAN Country Codes

The GS1 organization assigns country codes, also known as GS1 prefixes. These are the first 2 or 3 digits of the EAN barcode, and they indicate the country where the barcode was originated.

Below is a list of the barcode prefixes by country.

Notable Observations

• Multi-country Codes: Some ranges, like 000–019, are shared between multiple countries (e.g., the USA and Canada).
• Special Allocations: Certain regions have specific allocations for unique purposes or sectors.
• Country Code vs. Origin: The country code indicates where the barcode was registered, not necessarily where the product was manufactured.

Why are EAN Barcodes important?

Retail and Inventory Management

EAN barcodes are integral to retail operations and inventory management. They streamline the checkout process, reduce human error, and facilitate real-time inventory tracking. Retailers can efficiently manage stock levels, forecast demand, and minimize losses due to overstocking or stockouts.

Supply Chain Efficiency

In the supply chain, EAN barcodes enhance visibility and traceability. They allow for accurate tracking of goods from production to distribution. This improves logistics planning, reduces delays, and ensures the timely delivery of products.

International Trade

For businesses engaged in international trade, understanding EAN country codes helps in verifying the authenticity of products, complying with import/export regulations, and managing customs documentation. It also aids in the assessment of market trends and consumer preferences across different regions.

Consumer Protection

EAN barcodes contribute to consumer safety by enabling product recalls and traceability. If a defective or harmful product is identified, businesses can quickly trace its origin and distribution path, facilitating efficient recall processes.