Ever stared at the back of a product and wondered what all those lines and numbers mean? Those little black bars hold a lot of power. They help products move through stores, track inventory, and scan at checkout. Two terms you’re likely to hear in this world are GTIN and UPC. They are closely related — but they’re not the same thing. Let’s break them down in a fun and easy way.
What is a UPC?
UPC stands for Universal Product Code. It’s a type of barcode that you’ve definitely seen before. It usually has 12 numbers and looks like a bunch of vertical bars under those numbers. It’s mainly used in the United States and Canada to identify retail products.
The 12 numbers in a UPC identify:
- The company that made the product
- The product itself — like a specific flavor of chips or type of shampoo
Every unique combination of product and brand gets its own UPC. Even if it’s the same item in a different size — new UPC!
What is a GTIN?
GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number. It’s not a type of barcode — it’s a number that identifies a product. Think of it as a product’s digital fingerprint. GTINs come in different lengths, and they work all around the world.
There are several types of GTINs:
- GTIN-12 (used in UPCs, mostly North America)
- GTIN-13 (used in EAN barcodes, common outside North America)
- GTIN-14 (used for cases or shipping units)
- GTIN-8 (for very small items with tiny packaging)
The key point? A UPC is a type of GTIN. Specifically, it’s a GTIN-12.
So What’s the Real Difference?
The main difference is:
- UPC is a type of barcode and a format.
- GTIN is the number that your barcode represents.
Still confused? Here’s a fun comparison to help:
Think of it like this: GTIN is your name written out. UPC is your name written as a barcode tattoo. Same identity, different form!
When Would You Use Each?
If you’re selling a product in stores in the U.S. or Canada, you’ll likely use a UPC. You’d go to GS1 (the global barcode organization), get a company prefix, and assign your UPCs — each with its unique GTIN-12.
If you’re selling globally, on marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or Walmart, they’ll ask for a GTIN. They may accept GTIN-12, GTIN-13, or even GTIN-14, depending on what you’re selling and where.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
1. GTINs give you flexibility. They work inside different barcode systems (like UPC and EAN). Big bonus when your business grows beyond borders.
2. UPCs are still king in North America. If you’re sticking to local shelves for now, UPC is all you need — and it already includes a GTIN-12.
3. Accuracy matters! Getting GTINs directly from GS1 ensures your products are recognized and indexed correctly. Fake or reused GTINs can cause you problems online or at checkout.
Fun Fact!
The very first product ever scanned with a UPC was a pack of Wrigley’s gum in 1974. Yep, even your snack could make technological history!
Wrap Up
So to keep it simple:
- GTIN is the number that identifies your product.
- UPC is one way that number gets turned into a barcode.
One is the identity. The other is the appearance.
Whether you’re launching your first soap brand or selling tech gadgets worldwide, knowing the difference helps. Happy barcoding!
