What is a UPC, How to Get One, and What Does It Do?

In the world of retail and eCommerce, barcodes are indispensable tools that streamline product identification, sales, and inventory management. You may have heard of a UPC but wondered, "What is a UPC, and how does it work?" This article answers all your questions, from "What does UPC stand for?" to how you can obtain one for your products. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the role UPCs play in retail, fulfillment, and product tracking.

What is a UPC?

The term UPC stands for Universal Product Code. A UPC is a standardized barcode system used globally to identify individual products in stores, warehouses, and online marketplaces. It consists of:

• A 12-digit number: Each number corresponds to a unique product.
• A UPC barcode: A machine-readable symbol (the UPC symbol) used for scanning items at checkout, inventory, or warehouses.

What is a UPC Code?

The UPC code is essentially the numeric representation of the barcode printed on products. Retailers and suppliers use this code to track products, manage inventory, and facilitate seamless checkout processes.

What does UPC stand for? Universal Product Code.

How Does a UPC Work?

UPCs simplify the identification process across the supply chain, whether in stores or fulfillment warehouses. Here's how it works:

1. UPC Barcode: The UPC barcode symbol is scanned by a device such as a POS system or a UPC scanner.
2. UPC Number: The scanner decodes the 12-digit UPC number to identify the specific product.
3. Database Matching: The UPC number is matched with product details, such as price, stock, and description.

This automated process eliminates errors and speeds up product tracking. For businesses using 3PL fulfillment services for DTC (direct-to-consumer), UPCs play a crucial role in optimizing inventory management.

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What Does a UPC Do? Key Benefits for Businesses

So, what does a UPC code do, and why is it essential? Here are the primary benefits:

• Accurate Product Identification: Each UPC code is unique to a product, ensuring it can be easily distinguished.
• Inventory Management: UPCs allow businesses to efficiently track stock levels, restock, and prevent overstocking.
• Retail Compatibility: Major retailers like Walmart and Amazon require UPC codes for product listings.
• Easier Product Scanning: UPCs streamline sales and warehouse operations using tools like the best wholesale UPC scanners.
• Fulfillment Efficiency: For businesses working with 3PL fulfillment partners or using Atomix Logistics' pod warehouse, UPCs improve order accuracy and speed.

In short, UPCs provide an essential foundation for retail and logistics, ensuring accuracy from checkout to Kickstarter fulfillment.

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What is a UPC Number?

The UPC number is the unique identifier encoded within the barcode. It consists of:

1. Manufacturer Code: The first six digits, issued by the GS1 organization.
2. Product Code: The next five digits, assigned by the manufacturer for a specific product.
3. Check Digit: The final digit, which ensures the barcode is correctly scanned.

For businesses asking, "What is the UPC number meaning?", it represents a product’s identity within a supply chain.

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How to Get a UPC Code for Your Product

If you're a manufacturer or retailer, you'll need UPCs to list and sell your products. Follow these steps to obtain UPC codes:

1. Register with GS1

GS1 is the global organization that creates and manages UPC codes. To get a UPC, you need to:

• Visit the GS1 website.
• Apply for a GS1 Company Prefix (a unique identifier for your business).

2. Generate Product-Specific Codes

Once you receive your Company Prefix, you can assign unique product codes to each of your items.

3. Buy UPC Codes and Labels

You can purchase UPC codes and buy UPC labels for physical products.

4. Print the UPC Symbol

Include the UPC barcode on product packaging for easy scanning.

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Why Not Use Third-Party UPCs?

While it's tempting to buy UPC codes from third parties, they may not be GS1-compliant. Retailers like Amazon require GS1-verified UPCs to prevent duplicates and ensure accuracy.

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UPC Codes and 3PL Fulfillment Services

For eCommerce businesses, UPCs are essential when partnering with 3PL fulfillment companies like Atomix Logistics. Here’s why:

• Efficient Inventory Tracking: UPCs ensure your products are accurately tracked in fulfillment centers.
• Faster Shipping: Services like b2b fulfillment and Kickstarter fulfillment rely on UPCs for accurate order picking and shipping.
• Cost Optimization: Tools to calculate dim weight can combine with UPC data for cost-effective shipping.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable 3PL or the best 3PL in Wisconsin, UPCs streamline warehouse processes.

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What is a UPC Code on a Box?

A UPC code on a box refers to the barcode printed directly on product packaging or boxes. This is crucial for:

• Wholesale shipments
• Retail compliance
• Warehouse efficiency

Businesses can easily buy UPC labels to apply UPC codes on unbranded boxes or packaging.

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Final Thoughts: Why UPC Codes Are Essential for Success

Understanding what a UPC is and how it works is critical for manufacturers, retailers, and eCommerce businesses. Whether you're listing a product on Walmart, managing a 3PL fulfillment service, or selling online, UPCs ensure your products are accurately identified and tracked.

Key Takeaways:

• What does UPC stand for? Universal Product Code.
• Why are UPCs important? They streamline product identification, inventory, and sales.
• How to get UPC codes? Register with GS1, generate product-specific codes, and print UPC barcodes.

From UPC product lookup to scanning items with the best wholesale UPC scanner, UPCs form the backbone of retail and fulfillment processes.

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FAQ: What is a UPC, How to Get One, and What Does It Do?

What does UPC stand for, and what is its purpose?

UPC stands for Universal Product Code. It is a unique 12-digit code accompanied by a barcode symbol used to identify products in retail, warehouses, and online marketplaces. UPCs streamline product tracking, inventory management, and checkout processes.

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How do I get a UPC code for my product?

To get a UPC code, you need to:

1. Register with GS1, the official organization that issues UPCs.
2. Obtain a GS1 Company Prefix.
3. Assign unique product codes to your items.
4. Print the UPC barcode on your product packaging or buy UPC labels.

Avoid third-party UPC sellers that aren’t GS1-verified, as major retailers like Amazon require GS1-compliant UPCs.

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What is the difference between a UPC and a GTIN?

A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a broader product identifier that encompasses UPCs. In North America, a UPC is a type of GTIN with a 12-digit format. The terms are often used interchangeably.

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Why do businesses need UPC codes?

Businesses need UPC codes for:

• Accurate product identification and inventory management.
• Selling products in retail stores or on platforms like Amazon and Walmart.
• Streamlining logistics and fulfillment services, especially with 3PL fulfillment partners.
• Simplifying warehouse operations like scanning, tracking, and shipping.

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Can I look up a product by its UPC code?

Yes, you can use UPC lookup tools or UPC barcode finders to search for product details, such as descriptions, pricing, and availability. Retailers and online platforms offer these tools for both businesses and consumers.