What is the difference between GTIN and UPC?

Barcodes are a crucial aspect of e-commerce, providing a standardized way of identifying products in the digital space. They help to simplify supply chain management, track inventory, and make the checkout process faster and more accurate. However, with different types of barcodes available in the market, it can be challenging to decide which one to use for your business. Let’s compare two of the most common barcodes - GTIN and UPC - and help you understand the differences between them.

What is a GTIN code?

A GTIN code, or Global Trade Item Number, is a unique identifier that is used to identify a product. The most common type of GTIN code is the 12-digit UPC (Universal Product Code), which is widely used in North America. However, there are other types of GTIN codes, including the 13-digit EAN (European Article Number), which is used in Europe and other parts of the world.

What is a UPC code?

A UPC code is a type of GTIN code that is widely used in North America. It consists of a 12-digit number that is used to identify a product. The first six digits of a UPC code represent the manufacturer, while the remaining six digits represent the specific product. The UPC code is used to track products in retail stores, and is also used in online commerce.

The Differences Between GTIN and UPC Codes

While GTIN and UPC codes are both used to identify products, there are some key differences between the two. One of the biggest differences is the number of digits in the code. A GTIN code can have either 8, 12, 13, or 14 digits, while a UPC code always has 12 digits. Another difference between GTIN and UPC codes is the fact that GTIN codes are used globally, while UPC codes are primarily used in North America. This means that if you are selling products internationally, you will need to use a GTIN code, rather than a UPC code. Finally, GTIN codes are more versatile than UPC codes. They can be used to identify not just products, but also services, shipments, and assets. This makes them a more flexible solution for businesses that need to track a wide range of items.

How GTIN and UPC Codes Affect Your Business

The use of GTIN and UPC codes is an important part of running a successful business. These codes allow you to identify your products and track them through the supply chain. They also help you to keep track of inventory and ensure that you are selling the right products to your customers. In addition, using GTIN and UPC codes can help you to sell your products online. Many online marketplaces, such as Aazon and eBay, require sellers to use these codes in order to list their products. By using these codes, you can ensure that your products are easily searchable and that customers can find them quickly and easily.

Importance of GTIN and UPC in e-commerce

GTINs and UPCs are crucial for e-commerce businesses. They help to simplify supply chain management and make the checkout process faster and more accurate. They also provide data for sales analysis and help businesses make informed decisions about their inventory. Additionally, using standardized barcodes like GTINs and UPCs can help businesses comply with industry regulations and reduce the risk of counterfeiting.

How to choose between GTIN and UPC

When deciding between GTIN and UPC, it's essential to consider the nature of your business and the products you sell. If you're selling products at the point of sale in the United States and Canada, UPCs are the most suitable option. However, if you're selling products globally or need to track products at various stages of the supply chain, GTINs are a better choice. It's also worth noting that some online marketplaces, such as Amazon, require businesses to use GTINs for certain product categories.

How Algopix Can Help

If you want to get the most out of your product research, Algopix is the solution for you. We offer the most comprehensive product analysis on the market and our ASIN and EAN to UPC converters are just two of our many helpful tools. Try now for free.

1. Short answer: Every UPC is a GTIN but not every GTIN is a UPC.
2. Long Answer:
   • GTIN stands for global trade item number.
   • UPC stands for Universal product code.

UPC is one of the many GTIN standards used to uniquely identify a product globally. Other examples of a GTIN include EAN or a European Article Number. GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is an umbrella term for unique product identifiers, including UPC (Universal Product Code). A UPC is a 12-digit GTIN commonly used in the U.S. for barcodes, while GTIN includes other formats like GTIN-8, GTIN-13 (EAN), and GTIN-14, used globally. Use tools like Algopix Identifier to validate and convert these GTIN values between one another. You can know more about it here.