Finding Product Information with Product Code Lookup: A How-To Guide

The Power of Product Code Lookup

Looking for a quick guide to product code lookup? Here’s what you need to know:

• Product Code Lookup lets you easily find detailed information about products using a unique code like UPC, EAN, ISBN, or GTIN.
• This process can reveal product details, photos, pricing, and even reviews.

Product codes are a crucial element in retail and e-commerce. They help in managing inventory, identifying products accurately, and even enhancing the checkout process. Whether you’re an aspiring e-commerce entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, understanding product code lookup can be a game-changer.

I’m Will Mitchell, with over 20 years of experience in e-commerce and importing from China. Throughout my career, I’ve helped thousands of entrepreneurs optimize their product listings and navigate the complexities of product codes. Let’s delve into the basics and benefits of product code lookup.

What is a Product Code?

A product code is a unique identifier assigned to a product. It helps businesses and consumers track, manage, and retrieve information about that product. There are several types of product codes, each serving a specific purpose and used in different regions or industries.

Types of Product Codes

UPC (Universal Product Code)

A UPC is a 12-digit barcode used primarily in North America. It’s the most common type of product code you’ll see in stores. Retailers use UPCs to identify products quickly and accurately. For example, if you buy a can of soda, the cashier scans the UPC to ring up the correct price. Our UPC Lookup Tool can help you find product details like name, brand, and image by entering the UPC code.

EAN (European Article Number)

An EAN is similar to a UPC but is used internationally, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It usually consists of 13 digits. If you’re traveling abroad and buy a product, it will likely have an EAN code. Entering this code into our EAN Lookup Tool will provide you with the product’s name, brand, and image.

ISBN (International Standard Book Number)

An ISBN is a 13-digit code used to identify books and book-like products. It helps publishers, libraries, and bookstores manage their inventories. When you enter an ISBN into our ISBN Lookup Tool, you’ll get information such as the author, title, edition, and cover image of the book.

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

A GTIN is a 14-digit identifier used globally to track products in the supply chain. It encompasses all other types of barcodes, including UPC, EAN, and ISBN. By entering a GTIN into our GTIN Lookup Tool, you can quickly find comprehensive product information.

Why Are Product Codes Important?

Product codes like UPC, EAN, ISBN, and GTIN simplify the process of identifying and managing products. They help businesses maintain accurate inventories, streamline checkout processes, and provide consumers with detailed product information. Understanding these codes can significantly benefit anyone involved in retail, distribution, or e-commerce.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to search for a product by its code and the benefits of using product code lookup tools.

How to Search for a Product by Code

Searching for a product by its code is straightforward and can save you a lot of time. Whether you have a UPC, EAN, ISBN, or GTIN, you can use a product code lookup tool to get detailed information about the item. Here’s how you can do it:

Barcode Lookup

Using a barcode lookup tool, you can enter the barcode number into a search field. This number is usually found above or below the barcode on the product packaging or book cover. Once you enter the code, the tool will retrieve the corresponding product information.

Steps to Perform a Barcode Lookup:
1. Locate the Barcode Number: Find the UPC, EAN, ISBN, or GTIN on the product.
2. Enter the Code: Type the code into the search field of a barcode lookup tool.
3. Retrieve Information: Get the product name, brand, and image.

Product Information

When you search for a product by its code, you can access a variety of details:

• Product Name: The official name of the product.
• Brand: The company or manufacturer behind the product.
• Image: A visual representation of the product.

For example, if you search for a UPC code of a popular brand of cereal, you’ll see the product name, the brand, and an image of the cereal box.

Photos

Most barcode lookup tools will also show you photos of the product. This is particularly useful for verifying that you have the correct item. For instance, if you’re a retailer, you can quickly check if the product on your shelf matches the image in the database.

Store Pricing

While most barcode lookup tools do not provide pricing information directly, knowing the product name and brand can help you search for prices on other websites. For example, after retrieving the product information, you can visit online stores like Amazon or eBay to compare prices.

Search Term

Using the product information you’ve retrieved, you can refine your search term for more accurate results. For example, if you’re looking for a specific edition of a book, knowing the ISBN can help you find the exact title and edition.

Example:
– Search Term: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ISBN”
– Refined Search: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ISBN 978-0439708180”

By using the exact ISBN, you can find the specific book edition you’re looking for.

In the next section, we will delve into the steps to perform a product code lookup, including barcode scanning and smartphone scanning for quick and accurate results.

Steps to Perform a Product Code Lookup

Performing a product code lookup is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Whether you’re using a desktop or a smartphone, the process remains largely the same. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Barcode Scanning

Using barcode scanning is the quickest way to retrieve product information. Modern smartphones come equipped with cameras that can scan barcodes effortlessly.

• Smartphone Scanning: Open the Barcode Lookup Tool on your smartphone and hit the “Scan barcode” button. This will activate your device’s camera, allowing you to scan the barcode directly.
• Desktop Scanning: If you’re using a desktop, you can also scan barcodes using a connected barcode scanner.

2. Entering the Code

If you don’t have a scanner handy, you can manually enter the code.

• Locate the Code: Find the UPC, EAN, GTIN, or ISBN code on the product. These codes are usually located above or below the barcode.
• Input the Code: Enter the code into the search field of the Barcode Lookup Tool.

3. Retrieving Information

Once you’ve scanned or entered the code, the tool will process your request.

• Database Access: The Barcode Lookup Tool accesses a comprehensive database containing over 500 million products.
• Display Results: Within seconds, the tool will display the product name, brand, and image.

4. Smartphone Scanning Benefits

Using a smartphone for barcode scanning offers several advantages:

• Speed: Scanning with a smartphone is generally faster and more convenient.
• Portability: You can perform lookups on the go, making it perfect for in-store comparisons or quick checks.
• Accuracy: The Scanbot Web Barcode Scanner SDK ensures high accuracy, reducing the chances of errors.

5. Database Access

The Barcode Lookup Tool relies on an extensive and constantly updated database. This ensures:

• Accuracy: The information retrieved is highly accurate.
• Comprehensive Coverage: With data on over 500 million products, you’re likely to find the information you need.
• Regular Updates: The database is updated daily, ensuring the latest product information is available.

By following these steps, you can quickly and easily perform a product code lookup, whether you’re a retailer, distributor, or consumer. In the next section, we will explore the various tools and resources available to help you with product code lookups.

Tools and Resources for Product Code Lookup

There are several tools and resources available to help you perform a product code lookup. Here are some of the most useful ones:

Barcode Lookup Tool

The Barcode Lookup Tool is a free and easy way to find product information. Simply enter a UPC, EAN, GTIN, or ISBN code into the search field, and you’ll get the product name, brand, and image. This tool covers over 500 million products and is updated daily. It’s perfect for retailers, distributors, and consumers. You can even use your smartphone to scan the barcode directly.

Go-UPC

Go-UPC is another reliable tool for looking up product codes. It offers a vast database of UPC codes and provides detailed product information. This tool is particularly useful for Amazon sellers who need to verify product details before listing items.

FDA Product Code Builder

For those dealing with FDA-regulated products, the FDA Product Code Builder is essential. This tool helps you create accurate product codes by guiding you through the process. It covers various industries, from food to medical devices, and ensures your product codes match FDA requirements.

Example:

• Product: Canned Tomato Soup (Concentrated)
• Product Code: 38BEE27
• Industry: Soup
• Class: Soup, Conc
• Subclass: Metal
• Process Indicator Code: Commercially Sterile
• Product: Tomato Soup, Concentrated

Scanbot SDK

The Scanbot SDK is a powerful tool for mobile barcode scanning. It integrates with your smartphone to quickly and accurately scan barcodes. This SDK is perfect for businesses needing to scan barcodes on the go. It supports various barcode types, including UPC, EAN, and ISBN.

API Integration

For developers, API integration can be a game-changer. Many barcode lookup tools offer APIs that allow you to integrate product code lookup functionality into your own applications. This can streamline your workflow and provide real-time product information directly within your software.

Benefits of API Integration:

• Real-time Data: Access up-to-date product information instantly.
• Customization: Tailor the lookup process to fit your specific needs.
• Scalability: Handle large volumes of product lookups efficiently.

By leveraging these tools and resources, you can make product code lookup a seamless part of your workflow. Whether you’re scanning barcodes with your smartphone or integrating APIs into your application, these tools provide the accuracy and efficiency you need.

Next, let’s dive into understanding the different types of product codes and how they are structured.

Understanding Different Product Codes

When it comes to product codes, there are several types you need to understand. Each type serves a unique purpose and is used in different regions or industries. Let’s break down the most common ones: UPC, EAN, ISBN, and GTIN.

UPC (Universal Product Code)

UPC is a 12-digit barcode used primarily in North America. It’s the most common type you’ll see in stores. Here’s what a typical UPC looks like:

• Example: 012345678905

Fun Fact: UPCs were first used in 1974, and the first product scanned was a pack of Wrigley’s gum.

EAN (European Article Number)

EAN codes are used outside North America, mainly in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. They are similar to UPCs but can be either 13 or 8 digits long.

• Example: 4006381333931

Interesting Note: EAN-13 is the most commonly used format worldwide, and it includes a country code that identifies the country of the manufacturer.

ISBN (International Standard Book Number)

ISBN codes are 13-digit identifiers used for books. They provide detailed information about the book, including the edition and publisher.

• Example: 978-3-16-148410-0

Did You Know? ISBNs have been in use since 1970, making it easier for bookstores and libraries to manage their inventories.

GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

GTIN is a broader category that includes UPC, EAN, and other barcodes. It can be 8, 12, 13, or 14 digits long and is used to identify products globally.

• Example: 00012345600012

Tip: GTINs are used in the global supply chain to ensure products are easily identifiable across different countries and systems.

Industry Code

The Industry Code is part of the FDA product code structure. It consists of two numbers that identify the broadest category of a product.

• Example: 38 for soup products

Class Code

The Class Code is a single letter that specifies the food group, source, or category of the product.

• Example: B for soup, concentrated

Subclass Code

The Subclass Code is a single letter or hyphen that represents the container type or material.

• Example: E for metal containers

Process Indicator Code (PIC)

The Process Indicator Code is a single letter that describes the process or storage form of the product.

• Example: E for commercially sterile

Product Group

The Product Group element is two characters long and identifies the specific product within an industry/class combination.

• Example: 27 for tomato soup, concentrated

Putting It All Together

To illustrate, let’s decode a sample FDA product code: 38BEE27.

• 38: Soup industry
• B: Soup, concentrated
• E: Metal container
• E: Commercially sterile
• 27: Tomato soup, concentrated

By understanding these different product codes, you can easily navigate through various systems and databases to find the exact product information you need. This knowledge is crucial for efficient inventory management, accurate product identification, and seamless global trade.

Next, let’s explore the benefits of using product code lookup and how it can streamline your operations.

Benefits of Using Product Code Lookup

Using a product code lookup tool offers several compelling benefits for businesses and consumers alike. Let’s break down why this method is so effective.

Accuracy

When you enter a product code like a UPC or EAN, you get precise information about the product. This eliminates guesswork and ensures you are looking at the correct item. Our Barcode Lookup Tool is highly accurate, thanks to its extensive and constantly updated database of over 500 million products.

“Our tool is very accurate and relies on an extensive and constantly updated database of product information.” – source

Efficiency

Looking up a product by its code is much faster than manually searching by name or description. Whether you are a retailer updating your inventory or a consumer checking product details, the process is quick and straightforward.

• Retailers: Quickly scan barcodes to update stock levels.
• Consumers: Instantly retrieve product details like name, brand, and image.

Global Reach

Product codes like EAN and GTIN are used internationally, making it easy to identify products no matter where they are sold. This is crucial for businesses operating in multiple regions.

“EAN is a barcode system used in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.” – source

Comprehensive Database

A good product code lookup tool should have a comprehensive database. Our tool covers a wide range of product codes, including UPC, EAN, ISBN, and GTIN. This makes it versatile and reliable for various needs.

Free Tools

One of the best parts about using our Barcode Lookup Tool is that it’s completely free. You don’t have to invest in expensive software to get accurate product information.

“Best of all, it’s completely free to use.” – source

By leveraging these benefits, you can make your operations more efficient, accurate, and globally connected. Next, let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions about product code lookup.

Frequently Asked Questions about Product Code Lookup

How to search for a product by code?

Searching for a product by code is simple. Use a barcode lookup tool to enter the product’s UPC, EAN, GTIN, or ISBN. The tool will retrieve product information such as the name, brand, and sometimes even photos. You can use this information to look up store pricing on various websites.

Where do I find product codes?

You can find product codes on the package or cover of the item. Look above or below the barcode. For books, the ISBN is usually on the back cover. For other products, the UPC or EAN is typically near the bottom of the packaging.

Can you look up a product by UPC code?

Yes, you can look up a product using a UPC code. Simply enter the UPC code into a product lookup tool. This will provide you with the product name, brand, and often an image. It’s a quick way to get accurate product details.

Conclusion

In summary, performing a product code lookup is a straightforward yet powerful way to access detailed information about a product. Whether you’re using a UPC, EAN, ISBN, or another type of code, these lookups can provide valuable details such as product names, brands, images, and pricing. This capability is especially useful for e-commerce businesses, allowing them to maintain accurate and up-to-date product listings.

The importance of product code lookup cannot be overstated. It ensures accuracy and efficiency in managing product information. With tools like the FDA Product Code Builder, Go-UPC, and various barcode scanning applications, businesses can streamline their operations and offer better service to their customers.

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