What’s the difference between EAN and UPC barcodes?

The most common barcode format is EAN. We normally supply barcode numbers in 13 digit ข้อมูลจำเพาะ EAN-13 format, with a leading 0 (eg 0799439112766 ). However, our numbers can also be used in 12 digit UPC-A format without the leading 0 (eg 799439112766 ). The actual bars produced for both of these are identical (see the picture below).

EAN or UPC Barcode Format

Most of the world uses the EAN-13 format apart from North America who use the UPC-12 format so if you are selling outside of the US then use the EAN-13 format.

Do keep in mind that some retailers have software systems that don’t like numbers with a leading 0, and hence they will prefer to use your barcode in the 12 digit format (eg 799439112766 ). This is still fine – the number is still the same and still unique and will work OK. You can let the retailer work out which version of your barcode number they will use.