In today’s globalized market, barcodes play an integral role in product identification, inventory management, and supply chain logistics. Among the multitude of barcode formats, the International Article Number (EAN) is one of the most widely recognized and utilized. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of the EAN “4170000021568“. We will explore what EANs are, how they function, and what you can glean from this particular code.
What is an EAN?
The EAN is a standard used internationally for the identification of products, which is particularly important in retail environments. Each EAN is a unique identifier that comprises 13 digits, allowing manufacturers and retailers to accurately track products throughout their distribution and sales processes. The EAN makes it easier for customers to find products quickly and simplifies inventory tracking for retailers.
Breaking Down EAN 4170000021568
As we focus on “4170000021568”, it’s essential to understand the components of an EAN. Typically, EANs contain:
- Prefix: The first 2 or 3 digits often represent the country code, which can provide insights into where the product or brand originates from.
- Manufacturer Code: Following the prefix, the next segment (usually 4 to 6 digits) identifies the manufacturer. This unique code helps distinguish between different producers of products.
- Product Code: The next set of digits specifies the specific product manufactured by the company.
- Check Digit: The final digit is used as a checksum to ensure the code has been scanned correctly.
Now, upon examining the EAN “4170000021568”, we can break it down further.
Analyzing the Segments
- Prefix (41):
The prefix “41” is aligned with GS1 standards and indicates that this product is likely produced or registered in Germany, which is one of the most influential countries in the manufacturing sector. - Manufacturer Code (7000):
The manufacturer code could belong to a specific entity that has registered with GS1, which is responsible for maintaining and issuing EANs. The combination of these digits identifies the company responsible for the production of the item. - Product Code (021568):
This segment details the specific product associated with the manufacturer code. The innovation and uniqueness of this product will often align closely with the manufacturer. - Check Digit (8):
The concluding digit serves to verify the accuracy of the preceding numbers and ultimately assures that the complete code has been recorded accurately.
Importance of EANs in Commerce
EANs like “4170000021568” are vital for various reasons:
- Product Tracking: They help track a product from the manufacturer to the point of sale, enabling more efficient logistics and inventory management.
- Sales Data: When scanned at the point of sale, EANs contribute to collecting robust sales data, which companies use to understand sales trends and consumer behavior.
- Inventory Management: Retailers use EANs for managing stock levels, ensuring they maintain the right quantity of products while eliminating excess inventory and reducing storage costs.
- Facilitation in E-commerce: In the world of online shopping, EANs enable accurate listings and easier product discovery for customers, thus enhancing overall user experience.
Common FAQs
1. How can I find more information about the EAN 4170000021568?
To find more information on a specific EAN, you can search databases like GS1 or reach out directly to the manufacturer associated with the code. Depending on the product, many manufacturers also offer information directly on their websites.
2. Is it possible to generate my EAN?
Yes, businesses can generate their own EANs by registering with GS1, obtaining a unique company prefix, and subsequently creating product codes.
3. Are EANs used outside of retail?
Absolutely! EANs can be utilized across various sectors including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food industry, and even libraries for book identification.
4. What is the difference between an EAN and a UPC?
While both EANs (European Article Numbers) and UPCs (Universal Product Codes) serve similar functions in identifying products, they differ primarily in structure and usage. EANs typically contain 13 digits, while UPCs generally include 12 digits. EANs are used more frequently in European markets, while UPCs are predominantly used in the United States and Canada.
Conclusion
In summary, the barcode “4170000021568” serves as an unprecedented identifier within the world of commerce, encapsulating the importance of efficient product management through its numerical structure. Whether you are a manufacturer, retailer, or consumer, understanding how EANs function can enhance your engagement with products and streamline operations. As a backbone of the retail and product identification system, EANs like this one hold significant value in our increasingly interconnected market. By familiarizing yourself with barcodes and how they operate, you position yourself to leverage their potential benefits in both personal and professional capacities.