UPC Barcode Scanner

What are UPCs?

The UPC, short for Universal Product Code, is a one-dimensional (1D) barcode widely used for product identification in retail, warehousing, and distribution. Its’ structures are a component of Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) and follow the global GS1 specification, which is based on international standards. There are two main variations.

UPC-A barcodes are the standard format, consisting of 12 numeric characters that contain product information. UPC-E barcodes, more frequently used in the US and Canada, is a compressed version of UPC-A barcode and contains only 6 digits. The key difference lies in their size and encoding method. UPC-E is also designed for smaller surfaces where space is limited, such as coupons.

Mainly utilized in North America, they differ slightly from EAN barcodes, which find widespread international use. Together, these barcodes serve as the backbone for product identification, tracking, and management in both the manufacturing and retail industries.

One of the defining strengths of barcode is its role at the point of sale. They facilitate seamless checkout processes like Scan & Go and enhance inventory management by providing real-time stock updates.

Applications of UPCs

Retail

UPCs are omnipresent in retail, enabling quick and accurate product identification at checkout. They streamline inventory management and facilitate efficient restocking processes.

Supply chain

These codes enhance supply chain efficiency by enabling accurate tracking of products from manufacturer to retailer. They also help manage inventory levels and forecast sales across the entire distribution network.

Warehousing

In warehousing and distribution centers, they allow for real-time inventory updates, reducing errors in stock counts and improving overall inventory accuracy.

Structure of UPC barcodes

UPC-A barcodes include 12 numeric characters, split into two key components: 11 product digits and 1 check digit. The product digits are divided into three categories:

• The first digit identifies the category or type of product. 
• The next five digits represent a unique identifier for the product manufacturer. 
• The last five product digits contain specific product information like size or flavor.

The 12th and last digit is a check digit used for error detection and correction. Calculated from the first 11 digits, it helps scanners detect errors like incomplete or incorrect data during the scanning process.

UPC-E codes follow the same structure as UPC-A barcodes but use 6 digits instead, consisting of 5 product digits and 1 check number.

Advantages of UPC barcodes

• Compact size: UPC codes are designed to store essential product information in a compact format, making them suitable for labeling items of various sizes in retail settings.
• Error detection: UPCs include error detection through the use of a check digit, which is calculated using the Modulo 10 algorithm. It helps identify errors such as single-digit mistakes or some transposition errors.
• Scalability: They come in fixed lengths, with the standard UPC-A format storing 12 digits, while the compact UPC-E format accommodates smaller products with reduced data capacity.
• Versatility: They are compatible with virtually all retail and point-of-sale systems, ensuring seamless integration across industries worldwide.

Why choose the Scanbot SDK for UPC scanning?

The Scanbot Barcode Scanner SDK is specifically designed to handle the challenges of decoding UPC codes in real-world scenarios.

What sets us apart:

• Exceptional performance: Reliably decodes even damaged, low-contrast or distorted barcodes.
• High-speed scanning: Read UPC codes in as little as 0.04 seconds.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Easily integrate with Android, iOS, cross-platform, web, Windows, and Linux platforms.
• Customizable UI: Customize the ready-to-use components to match your app or website design.
• Privacy-first: Operates offline for complete data security.

Whether your use case involves UPC codes, EAN codes or any other barcode, the Scanbot SDK delivers the accuracy, speed, and reliability you need to succeed.

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