UPC-A barcodes are a variation of EAN-13 barcodes. If the first digit in EAN-13 is the digit '0', then the EAN-13 and UPC-A codes (without the initial '0') will be the same. The shift in numbers is perceived visually as the difference between UPC-A and EAN-13 barcodes, although this difference is not significant. Both bar codes can be easily scanned by most scanners.
When do I need to use EAN-13 instead of UPC-A?
UPC-A bar codes are traditionally used in the United States, while EAN-13 bar codes are used throughout the rest of the world. Currently, most stores around the world use barcodes in both formats. At the same time, there are some old systems that accept only one or another format. This means that if your product is sold in the USA, the UPC-A barcode format is the best, but if your product is international or sold in the US and other countries, then the EAN-13 barcode is the best.
When do I need to use EAN-13 instead of UPC-A?When do I need to use EAN-13 instead of UPC-A?
