How to read an EAN barcode

The barcode is a system that allows us to encode numbers and letters using an image. There are a variety of types of barcodes, depending on the coding system they use. Each of them is designed to fulfill a specific function, according to the information they collect. There are one-dimensional and two-dimensional codes, which can store more or less information. One of the most used is the code EAN (European Article Number) or IAN (International Article Number), whose task is to identify the products sold in stores.

The use of the EAN-13 code is widespread in Europe and almost the rest of the world, except the United States and Canada, where the UPC (Universal Product Code) is used. This one digit less (12). The simplest and most common way to read a barcode is to use a reader or scanner, as they allow you to interpret it quickly. Now, let's learn how to decipher an EAN barcode manually.

Read an EAN barcode manually


EAN barcodes have a fixed length adjusted to a relatively small space. It is represented by a set of vertical stripes and blanks – both of different width – which translate into a 13-digit number that is usually just below them.

To decipher an EAN barcode, the key is in the position of the numbers. The first two indicate the country of origin. In the case of Spain, its hallmark is 84. The following five numbers correspond to the identifier of the company that manufactured the product. Those that are placed between the eighth and twelfth position belong to the specific product.

Finally, the barcode ends with a check digit, which serves to corroborate that the code is correct. To obtain it, you have to add the numbers of the odd positions, multiply the result by three and add the digits of the even positions. After this, we round the result to the next top ten and the check digit will be the amount we have needed to reach rounding.

Model of an EAN barcode

Therefore, if we consider these elements, we can identify to which product, company and country the barcode belongs.

Why do we need a barcode?


Any product that is going to be marketed in stores, needs to have an exclusive barcode. EAN codes are mandatory in sectors such as retail or food. In fact, they are practically not used in other activities. As it allows to include the 12 digits of a warehouse item in a relatively compact space, it was developed mainly to meet the storage needs in the retail industry, as it allows easy control of inventory.

In case of needing EAN codes, you must buy them. These are purchased from certified companies, which assign a unique barcode for you to add to the product packaging. A good option to include the codes in your products is to opt for a barcode printer, with which you can print them on adhesive labels or on the packaging itself.

If you still have questions about barcodes, contact the Logiscenter technical team and they will help you with everything you need.