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Understanding UPC’s

Types

UPC is the acronym for Universal Product Code. This is a number in a specific format. The number can

be represented by a bar code symbol. A bar code symbol consists of patterns of black vertical bars with

white spaces and numbers at the bottom. The thickness of the bars and the distance between them define

the numbers contained in the bar code.

In the United States all retail items will be bar coded in one of three

general formats:

UPC – Universal Product Code

EAN – European Article Numbering

GS1 Databar

UPC-A codes take the form as shown to the right. UPC-E codes are

compressed UPC-A codes to take up less space on the package.

The EAN system is a symbology developed for international businesses. The two versions, EAN 8 and

EAN 13, are variations of the original UPC coding system.

GS1 Databar extends the number of digits to 14 and provides options and formats to accommodate

regulatory needs as well as convenience and product safety checks for the retailer. For example, GS1

Databar can have the numbering for tracking and tracing items through the supply chain. Another

variation can have an “expiration” or “best used by” date. The GS1 Databar can also take up less space on

the package than a UPC or EAN code. A major driver of this code is the growth of bar coded coupons

both in number and complexity. Offers that specify if you buy two of item A and two of item B you get a

50% discount on item C simply cannot be handled by the cashier. The cashier must be able to scan the

coupon and let the POS system do the work.

GS1 US (the governing body of USA bar code usage formerly known as the Uniform Code Council)

declared that as of January 1, 2005 all companies must be capable of processing and scanning EAN-8 and

EAN-13 bar codes. This declaration is known as Sunrise 2005. On January 1, 2010 another “sunrise”

requires processing and scanning of the GS1 Databar symbology.

For simplicity CSS uses the term UPC whether the bar code is UPC, EAN or GS1 Databar. CSS uses the

term PLU (part lookup or price lookup) for a user defined reference number. This is usually used for such

non bar coded items as fountain drinks, coffee, hot dogs, etc. It may also be used in lieu of the bar code on

the item for convenience purposes.

POS systems continue to evolve and not all systems and older versions of some systems do not process

and scan all these codes. If the POS system can use the code so can CSS. CSS cannot force the POS

system to do what it is not designed to do.

For detailed information on bar codes the following link maybe helpful. http://www.gs1.org/bar codes

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AML M3000 Manuel d'utilisateur Page 21