UPC Codes, GTIN, and EAN

Owning and understanding UPC code numbers are essential to selling online and, in all point-of-sale cases. Online retailers recognize these bar-coded numbers as the way to list and sell individual products. The UPC number is always 12 digits and unique to the product it is representing. This number appears on every retail product in America. A EAN number is 13 digits and the barcode reads the same as the UPC. GTIN codes are a globally unique 14-digit number for products, goods, or services.

Each product you sell, will need its own UPC, EAN, or GTIN. Most products from RV parts distributors are assigned UPC numbers from the manufacturers, while the part may not physically have a UPC barcode on the product, the number can generally be found in your inventory file from the distributor.

Most online retailers use the UPC to sort, categorize, and list products. A good understanding and careful data entry are key to efficient product listings.

If you have a unique product with no UPC, EAN, or GTIN number, you can register an purchase your own online. These purchased codes allow listing your products on Amazon and Walmart.