UPC Codes

UPC version A symbols have 12 digits (which include two overhead digits). The symbol is 
divided into two halves, each containing 5 digits. The first 5 digits of the half are the 
UPC manufacturer's code and the next five digits of the right half are the product code. The 
overhead two digits are of two types. The first digit indicates the type of product (0 for 
groceries, 3 for drugs, etc.), and a twelfth digit is a check digit. 


UPC version E is the next most common version of UPC. It is intended to be used on packaging 
which would is too small for larger numbered codes. The code is smaller because it drops out 
zeros which would otherwise occur in a symbol. For example, the code 64200-00066 would be 
encoded as 642663. The last digit (3) indicates the type of compression. The six digit 
number is always preceded by a 0 and followed by the check digit.

In some cases, either of these numbers (number system digit or check digit) can be suppressed.  Many retailers do not use these numbers in their databases and for that reason, when doing inventories, it is necessary that the scanner remove either the beginning number system digit or the ending check digit or both.  

So, in the example above, using the scenario of removing the first and last digit, the result would be 7567816412.  The 0 and 5 were removed.  This is a simple task to request when renting or buying barcode readers from MSS Software.

For info on obtaining a UPC code go here http://www.uc-council.org

MSS Software sells and rents scanner for scanning UPC Codes and for doing inventories. For more info, click here. 

Want to look up a UPC code? Go here... http://www.upcdatabase.com

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