What the 13 digits represent
Part
Source
Purpose
Company prefix
Assigned within the product-numbering system
Identifies the company or number owner
Item reference
Assigned by the company within its number capacity
Identifies a product, variant or packaging level
Check digit
Calculated from the first 12 digits
Helps validate whether the number was entered correctly
Recommended workflow
1
Confirm the number source
Do not assume any 13-digit number is a valid retail barcode.
2
Understand the company prefix
Prefix length can vary, so avoid forcing every code into one fixed digit split.
3
Assign item references consistently
Different product specifications normally need different item references.
4
Calculate the check digit
The last digit should be calculated from the first 12 digits.
5
Create and test the barcode
After the number is valid, create the EAN-13 artwork and test scanning before printing.
Common mistakes
Assuming every EAN-13 number has one fixed 3+4+5+1 split.
Treating the prefix as proof of product origin.
Using the same barcode for different product specifications.
Changing the check digit manually.
FAQ
Is EAN-13 always split the same way?
No. The conceptual parts are company prefix, item reference and check digit, but the exact lengths can vary.
Who assigns the item reference?
After a company has a valid prefix, it assigns item references to product items according to uniqueness rules.
Can I choose the last digit myself?
No. The final digit is a check digit calculated from the first 12 digits.