General Information Regarding Product Numbering Schemes

By Keren Kipfer


Virtually all trade items made and sold in the market today have a set of numbering on them that are used for recording and tracking purposes. These codes usually are found on a products' packaging. They can sometimes be found on the item itself especially in the case of electronic appliances and gadgets. While consumers don't generally pay much attention to these numbers, for a manufacturer, it is vital that you have a solid understanding of what these numbers mean and how they are crucial for your business. Keep in mind that this system was established for a reason. The following details are general information about some of these numbers on placed on products.

Whenever the term numbers on products are mentioned, it often refers to the strip of black bars found on product labels. This strip of black bars is what we call a bar code which is a scannable piece of data that can be interpreted using a specialized device and computer program. They are usually used at retail shops and grocery stores as a way to identify the price of a specific item. It is important to note that there are different types of product coding systems today. The most widely implemented product numbering systems used by major brands in the world are the Universal Product Code and the Electronic Product Code.

UPC is a form of barcode symbology used by most manufacturers from all around the world particularly in the U.S. and U.K. for the purpose of monitoring their items after they have been produced. The UPC is actually the barcode system with which we are most familiar. The barcode represents includes 12 numbers in a combination that is unique for every product. Each of the black horizontal bars corresponds to a digit so no bar is the same. They can be used on various computer systems as data input such as point-of-sale and inventory systems.

The other product numbering scheme, was devised to provide a universal ID system for all products created in any country and this codes are known as EPCs. Unlike the UPC, this particular coding style is very versatile and can even be used to develop new coding schemes when it is required. It was originally developed to meet the requirements of just a few industries, but is now seen in many industries. Additionally, EPC can be made to work with existing bar coding systems already established.

Regardless of type and location, manufacturers also add coding to many of their products and need to be able to imprint serial numbers or batch numbers quickly. This would also include expiration dates in the case of food items and beverages. A specialized printer is needed to place these numbers on every product. This type of machinery is known as an ID coder. There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing ID coders. Some of the popular brands include VideoJet, Imaje, Altima, and Domino coders.

While you can buy a new CIJ coder or DOD coder, second-hand ID coders are also available for much less. These refurbished coders are sold by special product id companies that cater to businesses that need use these types of printers. Generic inks can be used instead of original coder inks and they still deliver high quality printing. You can purchase generic inks, such as generic Domino ink, from a product id company and save a good amount of money.




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