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January 1st, 2005 was the deadline for enhanced GTIN / UPC / Bar Code
processing. Did you make it? If not, you still need to do
it. Many businesses in the supply chain are now receiving products
with 13 character UPC / EAN numbers.
Since the adoption of the Universal Product Code (UPC) in 1973,
several different versions have been developed. There are
five versions of the UPC, and two versions in Europe, called the
European Article Number (EAN.) There is a Japanese version
(JAN) based on one of the European versions. These versions
consist entirely of 8, 12, 13, and 14 digits. Currently, only
numbers are allowed in the UPC/EAN/JAN.
One major problem for companies doing business with the United
States and Canada is having to get a UPC code compatible with US /
Canadian standards. In the US and Canada, the standard is 12
digits. In Europe, it's 13 digits. In most cases, that
means they have to maintain two versions of their product
codes, if they want to do business with the US and Canada. This
is an added expense for foreign companies, and they are not very happy
about it.
There is also the issue of moving to a 14 digit code, which takes
less space, leaving more room on the label for product
information.
By Now, all US retailers will have to be able to scan all UPC and
EAN/JAN numbers.
Failure to upgrade current systems could lead to the inability to
share data with trading partners, additional product marking costs,
consumer service problems, and time-to-market delays, and other
critical inefficiencies.
This service is provided at a low, fixed price. On
time. No delays. No surprises. Guaranteed.
For complete information about the UPC / Barcode issue, visit one
or more of the following web sites:
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