If I Already Have an EAN, Do I Need to Purchase a UPC?

• EAN-13 barcodes (GTIN-13) work internationally and are accepted in most global markets.
• Many U.S. and Canadian retailers accept EANs, but some still require UPC-A specifically.
• If you plan to sell in North America, verify retailer requirements or consider obtaining a UPC for full compatibility.
• All Bar Codes Talk purchases include both UPC and EAN formats, giving you complete flexibility.

If you already have an EAN barcode and plan to sell your product outside Canada or the United States, you generally do not need anything else.

If you plan to sell within Canada or the United States, you should typically be able to do so using an existing EAN. In 2005, U.S. retailers were scheduled to update their systems to recognize EANs as well as UPCs. However, not all retailers completed this transition. To ensure compatibility, we recommend contacting the retailer in advance or simply purchasing a UPC for guaranteed acceptance.

Do you provide both UPC and EAN formats?

Yes. We include both the UPC and EAN versions of every barcode with your purchase, ensuring your GTINs work across all major marketplaces and retail systems.