All about the 'codes EAN'

An EAN (code-barres EAN) is a standardised numerical identifier that uniquely identifies a commercial product worldwide. Typically consisting of 13 digits, it is used by all supermarket checkouts, online marketplaces, ERP systems and logistics systems around the world.

Launched in 1977 at the instigation of European manufacturers — see our webarticle sur l'histoire des codes EAN — it is now managed by the international organisation GS1 and is one of the most widely used standards in the world, with over 6 billion scans per day.

Its structure (country prefix, manufacturer code, product code, check digit) ensures that each code is unique worldwide and enables automatic detection of data entry errors. The barcode itself is simply a visual representation of these 13 digits, which can be read by all scanners.

For e-commerce retailers, having valid EAN codes has become aindispensable: eBay, Etsy, OnBuy, Wayfair, Google Shopping, Notonthehighstreet and virtually all marketplaces will not accept any product listings without a GTIN. Without an EAN code, your product simply won’t appear in their catalogue.

There are two main ways to get hold of it: via l'organisme GS1 ou un revendeur agréé. The first option is suitable for large brands with an annual subscription, whilst the second is for SMEs, freelancers and e-commerce businesses looking for a one-off purchase with no commitment.