What is an EAN (European Article Number)?
Understanding EAN (European Article Number) in E-commerce
Quick Definition
EAN (European Article Number) is a standardized 13-digit product identification code used globally for retail inventory tracking, pricing, and supply chain management. It enables unique product identification across international markets, facilitating efficient commerce through machine-readable barcode systems that support global trade and logistics.
Understanding European Article Numbers (EAN)
EAN Structure and Components
13-Digit Breakdown
- •First 3 Digits: Country Code
- •Next 4-9 Digits: Manufacturer Identifier
- •Next 4-5 Digits: Product Reference
- •Final Digit: Checksum/Verification
Example EAN
5901234123457
- Country Code: 590 (Poland)
- Manufacturer: 1234
- Product Reference: 5345
- Checksum: 7
Why EANs Matter in E-commerce
Global Product Identification
Enables consistent product tracking across international markets and platforms
Inventory Management
Supports precise stock tracking and automated inventory systems
Supply Chain Integration
Facilitates seamless communication between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers
Pricing and Reporting
Enables accurate product pricing and sales reporting across systems
EAN vs UPC: Key Differences
| Characteristic | EAN | UPC |
|---|---|---|
| Digit Length | 13 Digits | 12 Digits |
| Geographic Usage | Global (Europe, Asia, Africa) | Primarily North America |
| Primary Markets | International Retail | US and Canadian Markets |
E-commerce Implementation Strategies
For online retailers, EANs are crucial in creating seamless multichannel selling experiences. Platforms like Growth Suite can help merchants integrate product identification systems efficiently, ensuring accurate tracking and reporting across different sales channels.
By maintaining precise EAN databases, e-commerce businesses can optimize inventory management, improve product listings, and create more reliable customer experiences in an increasingly global marketplace.
Put EAN (European Article Number) into Practice
Ready to apply these concepts to your store? Growth Suite provides the tools you need to implement effective ean (european article number) strategies.
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