The Universal Product Code (UPC) is a label that features 10 vertical black bars with a 12-digit number code appearing at the bottom. Universal Product Code labels hold information such as product name, size or quantity and the manufacturer. UPC labels are common since they appear on every grocery and retail item, mailing labels and sales tags for clothes.

To read UPC labels, you must use fixed or hand-held scanners to track the information that is tied to the item. Prices are set by the store, which uses point-of-sale devices that link to the scanners. As a result, prices, in addition to the other information, appear when you check out groceries or clothes for purchase. Post offices use Universal Product Code information to verify address and ZIP code information for package deliveries. Libraries also use UPC labels for non-retail use to track the status of their books. As a store employee, the Universal Product Code provides a useful way of maintaining accurate consumer product and tracking information. If you're a business owner or product manufacturer looking for UPC labels, you should:

1. Research Universal Product Code designs.
2. Find a Universal Product Code provider with in-house services.
3. Buy accessories for UPC labels.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research Universal Product Code information to help you choose your labels

Search for a Universal Product Code provider that customizes UPC labels for your products. Learn to incorporate the right number codes to add to your labels for product identification and tracking purposes.

I recommend: Check out Label Systems' Universal Product Code directory to find labels for coupons, consumer and warehouse products. Nameplates For Industry is a Universal Product Code provider that helps clients meet the latest specifications for their bar code labels. Star Label Products offers custom coatings and adhesives that apply to UPC labels.

Find Universal Product Code manufacturers with in-house design capabilities

Rather than creating Universal Product Code labels, save time by working with graphics specialists who can design and produce UPC labels for immediate delivery.

I recommend: APEXX Omni-Graphics processes UPC labels with custom serialization and sequential numbering for various applications. Advanced Labels provides digital printing services for Universal Product Code labels of different shapes and sizes; review its Universal Product Code list. Universal Product Code information is also available at Apogee Industries. They provide design and printing service for UPC labels.

Choose Universal Product Code accessories to protect labels from damage

Dispensers help you to easily apply UPC labels to boxes or other packages. Also consider security equipment to prevent counterfeiting.

I recommend: SecureMark Decal produces labels that withstand harsh weather conditions. Labels also have reflective features to reduce item tampering. Equipment such as thermal transfer printers and label design software can be found at Universal Label Technologies. Scanners track and verify information linked to UPC codes. Accu-Sort manufactures a broad range of scanners, including laser and camera-based readers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The Universal Product Code is also called a bar code for short. It first appeared in stores in 1973.