What is a Universal Product Code? Leave a comment

A universal product code (UPC), which is also known as a barcode, is a type of code that’s printed on a product’s package to identify that specific product. A UPC is comprised of two different parts: a series of unique bars that are machine-readable and a unique 12-digit code underneath. Read on to learn more about why UPCs are important and what the different types of barcodes are. Then, if you ever need any barcode labels or services, you can always turn to the experts here at Chicago Color Label!

Why Are UPCs Important?

Now that you know what a universal product code is, why are they important? UPCs help identify products by their brand name, size, color, and other key information. Barcodes are also helpful when you need to keep track of inventory and know what products are or are not in stock.

The Design of Barcodes

There are various types of barcodes that you can choose from, and they differ in terms of size, capacity, material, linearity, and the requirement of checksum. Here’s a quick overview of what each of these categories entails:

• Size: This will depend on the barcode’s application and the machine that’s used for scanning it.
• Capacity: Refers to all of the character combinations on the barcode.
• Linearity: This is the amount of area that can be scanned on the barcode.
• Checksum: A standardized portion of the barcode that checks whether the retrieved information is correct. If the barcode scanner deems the information as correct, it will beep.

The Different Types of Barcodes

As mentioned above, there are different types of barcodes that are available. Here are the commonly used barcode types:

Code 39

Code 39 barcodes use numbers and characters, and it can encode 43 characters. This type of barcode is frequently used by the automotive industry and the United States Department of Defense.

Code128

This type of barcode is highly versatile in that it can encode numbers, characters, and pronunciation marks. Code128 can store nearly all kinds of information, and it’s mainly used in logistics or order distribution.

Codabar

Codabar barcodes are frequently used by U.S. blood banks, FedEx, photo labs, and libraries. This type of barcode is popular because it’s easy to print, can be printed by any impact style printer, and can encode up to 16 characters with 4 additional start/stop characters.

GSI Databar

GSI Databar barcodes are used by retailers to identify coupons, produce, and perishable items, and they’re even used for some small healthcare products. They help customers check out faster, adn they offer more efficient scanning for UPS lookup devices.

Datamatrix Code

Frequently used to label small electric components, DataMatrix codes are 2D, and they’re capable of representing more data per unit area. These types of barcodes often look like squares or rectangles that have tiny dots in them.

Quick Response (QR) Code

QR codes are not as compact as DataMatrix barcodes, but they’re often used in advertisements and promotional materials. They also differ from traditional barcodes in that they have an entirely different dimension that can hold information.

How Do You Get a UPC?

If your company needs to a UPC for a product, you must apply through the Global Standards Organization to become a part of the system. How long does it take to get a barcode? Once you’ve submitted your application, it usually takes bout 24 hours to get your UPC.

Find the Right Type of Barcode with Chicago Color Label

Need help figuring out which barcode type to use for your products? Reach out to Chicago Color Label for assistance! One thing about us is that we’re dedicated to providing first-class customer service and supporting our shoppers in whatever way they need. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about labels, ink, and all things printing, be sure to check out our blog!