Description of UPC-E
Overview
The UPC-E Code (Universal Product Code, Version E) is a compressed, 8-digit barcode standard designed for use on small products where a full UPC-A barcode would be too large. It is a compact version of the UPC-A Code and represents the same GTIN-12 (Global Trade Item Number with 12 digits) by compressing certain digits, making it ideal for space-constrained packaging. Like UPC-A, UPC-E is part of the GS1 system and is primarily used in retail in North America.
The UPC-E Code is functionally equivalent to a UPC-A Code (and thus a GTIN-12) but uses a compression algorithm to reduce the number of digits displayed, while still encoding the same product information. The GTIN-12 is restored internally by scanners during processing.
Characteristics of the UPC-E Code
- Numeric Code: Consists of 8 digits (including a number system character, compressed product identifier, and check digit).
- Barcode Format: Each digit is represented by a pattern of bars and spaces, optimized for smaller sizes compared to UPC-A.
- Length: Always 8 digits in its printed form, though it represents a 12-digit GTIN-12 internally.
- Usage: Used in retail for small items (e.g., candy bars, small cosmetics) where space is limited, ensuring compatibility with UPC-A scanners.
Structure of the UPC-E Code
The UPC-E Code is a compressed representation of a UPC-A Code, achieved by omitting specific digits from the 12-digit UPC-A structure. The UPC-E Code consists of the following components:
- First Digit (Number System Character):
Typically 0 for standard retail products, indicating it is a regular UPC code. Other values (e.g., 1-9) are less common but follow the same conventions as UPC-A (e.g., 2 for variable-weight items, 5 for coupons).
- Digits 2-7 (Compressed Product Identifier):
These six digits encode a compressed version of the UPC-A manufacturer and item number. The compression is based on specific rules that allow certain UPC-A numbers to be shortened, typically when the manufacturer code or item number contains trailing zeros or specific patterns.
Note: Not all UPC-A codes can be converted to UPC-E. Only those with specific patterns (e.g., ending in zeros or certain digit combinations) qualify for compression.
- Digit 8 (Check Digit):
The final digit is the check digit, calculated using the same Modulo-10 algorithm as UPC-A, based on the full 12-digit UPC-A equivalent. ActiveBarcode automatically calculate the check digit for UPC-E by internally expanding the code to 12 digits before applying the algorithm.
Relationship Between UPC-E, UPC-A, and GTIN-12
- Compression Mechanism: UPC-E is a shortened version of UPC-A, representing the same 12-digit GTIN-12 in a compact 8-digit format. The scanner or system expands the UPC-E back to its UPC-A equivalent during processing.
- Equivalence: A UPC-E barcode represents the same GTIN-12 as its corresponding UPC-A barcode, ensuring compatibility with systems that use UPC-A or GTIN-12.
- Example:
- UPC-A: 042100005264 (12 digits, including check digit).
- UPC-E: 04252614 (8 digits, compressed, same check digit).
- GTIN-12: 042100005264 (the numerical identifier in databases).
- Global Usage: Like UPC-A, UPC-E is primarily used in North America but is part of the global GS1 system. The GTIN-12 it represents can be used worldwide in supply chains and e-commerce.
Implementation Notes
- GS1 Membership: To obtain a UPC-E code, a company must have a GS1-assigned manufacturer code, as UPC-E is derived from a valid UPC-A code.
- Check Digit Calculation: The check digit is calculated using the Modulo-10 algorithm on the full 12-digit UPC-A equivalent. ActiveBarcode performs this step automatically during barcode generation.
Conclusion
The UPC-E Code is a compact barcode standard designed for small products, offering a space-efficient alternative to UPC-A while representing the same GTIN-12 identifier. As part of the GS1 system, UPC-E ensures compatibility with UPC-A and global GTIN-12 standards, making it suitable for retail and supply chain applications where space is limited.
Technical data
| Valid characters: | 0123456789 |
| Length: | 8 |
| Check digit: |
Calculated according to Modulo 10 ActiveBarcode calculates the check digit automatically. |
| Type#: |
UPC-E - #17 - CODEUPCE |