What is a European Article Number (EAN)

EAN (European Article Number) is a type of GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) used to identify retail products. It typically appears as a 13-digit barcode on packaging, helping businesses track, sell, and manage products across global markets.

Examples

Format Example
EAN-13 5412345678907
EAN-8 62984309

Good to know

EANs are part of the global GTIN system, which means they’re recognized across international supply chains and online marketplaces. While EAN-13 is the standard format used on most products, EAN-8 is sometimes used for smaller items where space is limited. If you’re selling internationally or syncing product data with retailers, it’s important to use valid, GS1-assigned EANs; some platforms may reject listings without them.

Know more

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between an EAN and a GTIN?
EANs are a type of GTIN. Specifically, most EANs are 13-digit codes (called GTIN-13) used to identify products globally. GTIN is the broader term that includes other formats like GTIN-12 (UPC), GTIN-14, and GTIN-8.
Do I need a different EAN for every product variant?
Yes. Each unique product variation like size, color, or pack size should have its own EAN to ensure accurate tracking, inventory management, and marketplace listings.
Where do I get official EANs?
EANs are issued by GS1, the global standards organization. You can license a set of codes directly from GS1 or purchase from an authorized reseller, depending on your business needs.
Can I just make up my own EAN?
No. Creating fake or invalid EANs can cause listing errors and may lead to penalties on platforms like Amazon or Google Shopping. Always use valid, GS1-registered codes to avoid problems.