If you're working with barcodes, you've probably asked:
👉 Should I use EAN-13 or UPC?
👉 Are they the same?
👉 Which one does Amazon require?
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.
What is EAN-13?
EAN-13 (European Article Number) is a 13-digit barcode used internationally.
It’s the most common barcode format worldwide and is widely accepted in retail systems.
Example:
1234567890123
What is UPC?
UPC (Universal Product Code) is a 12-digit barcode mainly used in the United States and Canada.
Example:
123456789012
Key Differences Between EAN-13 and UPC
Feature| EAN-13| UPC
Digits| 13| 12
Usage| Global| US & Canada
Format| International standard| Regional standard
Amazon Compatibility| Yes| Yes
Can You Convert UPC to EAN-13?
Yes.
EAN-13 is basically a UPC with a leading zero.
So:
UPC: 123456789012
EAN-13: 0123456789012
This is why many systems treat them as compatible.
Which Barcode Should You Use?
Use EAN-13 if:
- You sell internationally
- You want global compatibility
Use UPC if:
- You sell mainly in the US/Canada
- Your supplier already provides UPC
What About Amazon FBA?
Amazon accepts both.
However:
👉 Many sellers end up using FNSKU instead of UPC/EAN
Because:
- It uniquely identifies your product
- Prevents listing conflicts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using the wrong barcode format
❌ Generating low-quality images
❌ Printing incorrect sizes
These mistakes can cause serious issues in logistics and scanning.
Try It Yourself (Free Tool)
If you want to generate EAN-13 or UPC instantly, you can use this:
👉 https://barkodkarekod.com/en/ean13-barcode-generator.html
No signup, no backend — runs directly in your browser.
Final Thoughts
EAN-13 and UPC are very similar, but choosing the right one depends on your use case.
If you're unsure:
👉 Go with EAN-13 (more flexible globally)
If you're working with barcodes or selling on Amazon, I'm curious:
Which format are you currently using — EAN or UPC?
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