UPCAcodes

UPCA codes, also known as UPC-A codes, are a type of barcode used in North America to track retail products. The UPC-A symbology is a linear barcode that encodes a 12-digit number. The first digit is a system number, which can indicate the type of product or its origin. The next five digits are the manufacturer code, assigned by the Uniform Code Council. The following five digits are the item number, assigned by the manufacturer to identify a specific product. The final digit is a check digit, calculated using a specific algorithm to ensure accurate scanning.

UPC-A codes are widely used on consumer goods, enabling retailers to efficiently manage inventory, process sales at checkout, and track product movement. The scanning process involves a laser or imager reading the bars and spaces of the barcode, which are then decoded into the 12-digit number. This number is linked to product information stored in a database, such as the product name, price, and manufacturer. The ubiquity of UPC-A codes has standardized retail operations and contributed to the efficiency of the supply chain. While other barcode formats exist, UPC-A remains a dominant standard for product identification in North America.