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What is a European Article Number or EAN Code? Know uses, types, importance, and how to get one
European Article Number or GTIN-13 is a standardized barcode used in Europe and accepted worldwide. Learn about its uses, types, and working in the blog.
Have you noticed how every product in a store, from a bar of chocolates to a pair of earphones, has a barcode printed on it? This pattern of black and white lines is part of a larger system that helps products move efficiently through supply chains and across borders. In many cases, this barcode is linked to something called the European Article Number or EAN code. This blog breaks down what an EAN is, highlighting its uses, types, and importance for businesses.
What is a European Article Number (EAN)?
A European Article Number (EAN) system is a standardized product identification system widely used in Europe and recognized globally. Each EAN assigns a unique 8-digit or 13-digit number to a product, ensuring seamless tracking from manufacturing to retail shelves. Many international marketplaces, including Amazon, use these codes to list products.1
What is an EAN code?
An EAN code is a numerical code and barcode derived from the European Article Number system. It is used to identify specific products and is useful in inventory management. When scanned, it provides product details such as the manufacturer, product category, and price. While Indian retailers often use barcodes under the GS1 India system, sellers exporting to Europe and other global marketplace require valid EAN codes.2
Importance of EAN code
The EAN code is valuable for Indian exporters targeting overseas markets, especially countries in Europe. It helps:
● Ensure product authenticity and uniqueness when selling internationally.
● Facilitate quick stock management and accurate order processing.
● Ease customs clearance through standardized product identification.
● Enable listing on major ecommerce platforms that require valid EAN codes for inventory and product registration.
Without an EAN code, exporters may face obstacles in gaining access to global markets, distribution networks, and online ecommerce platforms.3
Uses of EAN code
In practice, EAN codes are applied across industries. Their common uses include:
● Retail operations: Fast checkout and inventory management in supermarkets and stores.
● Ecommerce platforms: Ecommerce platforms like Amazon may require EAN code for product listing.
● Export documentation: Customs and international trade portals recognize EAN code for simplified product tracking.
● Warehouse management: EAN codes enable efficient product categorization and supply chain traceability.
● Brand protection: Unique identifiers reduce the chances of counterfeit products entering the market.4
Types of EAN code
Different formats of EAN codes are used depending on product type and packaging. The three major types are:
● EAN-13: The most common format, with 13 digits; used for retail products worldwide.
● EAN-8: A shorter 8-digit code; used when product packaging has limited space.
● EAN-128 (GS1-128): Used in logistics and bulk shipping as it includes additional information like batch or expiry date.5
Structure of 13-digit EAN
The EAN-13 is a standard code which is a widely used format for products internationally. It includes 13 digits, which are broken into several parts:
● Country code: The first three digits denote the country where the product is registered.
● Manufacturer code: The next few digits identify the brand or manufacturer.
● Product code: The digits after the manufacturer code are the unique identifier for the specific product code.
● Final digit: The last digit is a mathematically calculated number that verifies whether the barcode has been scanned correctly.6
Structure of an 8-digit EAN
The EAN-8 code is a compact version of the EAN-13 code, with only eight digits. It is used for small products with limited space, where a full-sized barcode will not fit. Like the EAN-13 code, the EAN-8 code includes a country code, followed by a manufacturer code, product code, and a check digit to verify the number. Although the EAN-8 is shorter than the EAN-13, it still provides essential product identification and tracking.7
How to obtain an EAN code?
Indian exporters and retailers can obtain EAN codes by registering with GS1 India, the official body authorized to issue them. The process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Registration
Visit the GS1 India website and register your business.
Step 2: Documentation
Submit business documents such as PAN, GST certificate, and company incorporation proof.
Step 3: Fee payment
Pay the applicable fee, which varies based on the number of codes required.
Step 4: Code issuance
Receive EAN codes that can be used for product packaging and listing on ecommerce platforms.8
How do EAN codes work?
An EAN code functions through a series of simple steps:
Code generation:
The manufacturer obtains an EAN code from GS1, the global standards organization. This code is unique and is assigned to a specific product.
Product labeling:
The manufacturer then prints the EAN code and its corresponding barcode onto the product packaging.
Scanning and data retrieval:
When the product is scanned at a retail store, the scanner reads the barcode and sends the digital information to a computer system.
Database search:
The computer system uses the EAN number to look up the product in a central database. This database contains all the necessary information, such as the product name, description, price, and inventory level.
Information display and processing:
The system then displays the product information on the point-of-sale terminal and updates the inventory count, ensuring accurate stock levels.9
Documents required to obtain an EAN code
Some of the documents required to apply for an EAN code are:
● Applicant company’s PAN card or the proprietor’s PAN card.
● Copy of balance sheet.
● Request for barcode allotment in a letter on company letterhead.
● Proof of status of the applicant company using GST/VAT registration certificate, Registrars of Company (ROC) certificate, or Memorandum of Association (MOA), wherever applicable.
● A copy of a cancelled cheque from the company.10
Difference between EAN code and UPC
Feature
EAN (European Article Number)
UPC Code (Universal Product Code)
Digit length
The EAN code has 8 or 13 digits
The UPC code has 12 digits
Regions used
Used across Europe, Asia, and for global export
Used primarily in USA and Canada
Application
Applicable for retail and worldwide export
Applicable for retail in North America11
Conclusion
For Indian businesses looking to expand their footprint in the global market, understanding and implementing the EAN code is vital. The EAN system is a globally accepted system that can help Indian exporters access major international markets, particularly in Europe. By obtaining a valid EAN code, businesses can ensure their products are ready for global trade, streamlining everything from inventory management to online sales. This barcode is a powerful tool that enhances efficiency, ensures compliance, and positions Indian products for success on the world stage.
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If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can you get EAN?
You can obtain an EAN code on the website of GS1. To apply, fill out the application form and submit documents that include details about your business, PAN and GST, among others.
2. Do I need to get different EAN codes for different products?
Yes, you need different EAN codes for different variations of products.
3. Can EAN numbers be used outside of Europe?
Yes, EAN numbers can be used outside of Europe, as they have been integrated into the global framework of product identification through the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) system. This means that products labeled with EAN codes can be easily scanned and identified in markets worldwide, facilitating smoother transactions and inventory management across borders.
4. Why is an EAN code required?
An EAN Code is required to uniquely identify products, streamline retail operations, and comply with ecommerce marketplaces like Amazon. For Indian exporters, it ensures acceptance in global markets and prevents counterfeit products from being listed.
Published on January 31, 2022.
Updated on November 11, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://priceva.com/blog/ean-number
2. https://e-tailize.com/blog/what-is-an-ean-code-and-why-do-you-need-one/
3. https://e-tailize.com/blog/what-is-an-ean-code-and-why-do-you-need-one/
4. https://www.gs1india.org/blog/ean-13-the-barcode-number
5. https://simtechdev.com/blog/ean/
6. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
7. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
8. https://shipglobal.in/blogs/ean-code-inventory-management/
9. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
10. https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/how-to-get-barcode-in-india/
11. https://apimio.com/what-is-ean-european-article-number/
Updated on November 11, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://priceva.com/blog/ean-number
2. https://e-tailize.com/blog/what-is-an-ean-code-and-why-do-you-need-one/
3. https://e-tailize.com/blog/what-is-an-ean-code-and-why-do-you-need-one/
4. https://www.gs1india.org/blog/ean-13-the-barcode-number
5. https://simtechdev.com/blog/ean/
6. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
7. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
8. https://shipglobal.in/blogs/ean-code-inventory-management/
9. https://www.shiprocket.in/blog/ean-codes/
10. https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/how-to-get-barcode-in-india/
11. https://apimio.com/what-is-ean-european-article-number/
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