Bar Coding Continued…

The first 6 digits on a UPC are used to identify the manufacturer. Each product has registered for a code and has been assigned that specific set of 6 numbers. For example each product made by Dove and any other products that that manufacturer makes will have the same first 6 numbers. The next 5 digits are used to identify that specific product. A specific kind of shampoo will have a certain designated set of 5 numbers following the manufacturer numbers. Another fragrance in that same line will have another set.

The last number in the sequence is called a check digit. It is calculated by the computer which reads the first 11 other numbers, and if the computer can calculate the same digit as what was read last, it knows that it has read the UPC correctly. If the computer calculates a different number than it reads, then there was an error in scanning, hence the ‘check' digit. The method of calculation is always the same; see the links below for more detailed information on how the check digit is derived.

What it Means

The bar code is only used as in identifier. There is no price information given in the code. The register reads the product code and sends that information back to the stores central computer or Point of Sale Computer, and looks up the price listed for that item. That way stores can internally adjust the price of items on sale and carry different prices than other stores.

The downside to this is that with the store having such control of the price there is room for human error or fraud. It is a good idea to check the price that an item rings up while still in line. Some stores may figure that consumers don't really pay attention to the price as they are checking out. It can be difficult to keep track of each item as it rings, especially considering the speed at which cashiers are able to finish transactions.

How do you get a barcode?

Where you can get a UPC bar code for a product you wish to sell is debatable. According to the Uniform Code Council, you must apply for a code through them. This of course comes with an annual fee. However many are arguing that this should not be the case, that there needs to be other competitive ways to register a product. It is expensive and gives manufacturers and small business owners little choice in marketing and selling a product.

You do not need a UPC code in order to sell your product, however the catch 22 is that many retailers will refuse to sell your product if it doesn't have one. The bar codes keep their sales fast paced. If employees had to hand ring in items the entire sale process would take longer.

Other Uses

The bar code is used for things other than just retail. Companies may use them for inventory and some states have bar code on the back of driver licenses. Libraries use bar codes as well on your library cards and on books. It is a quick and effective way to hold information and identify a person or object.

By Jeanne Rongitsch