How to Look Up the UPC Code of a Product?

In today’s fast-paced business environment, having accurate product information at your fingertips is crucial. Whether you’re managing inventory, validating product details, or ensuring seamless transactions, knowing how to look up a UPC (Universal Product Code) can significantly streamline your operations. Let’s delve into the world of UPC numbers and understand their significance in the realm of retail and commerce.

What Is a UPC Number？

A Universal Product Code, shortened as UPC, is a unique identifier assigned to products sold in retail environments. Comprising 12 numerical digits, a UPC ensures each product can be easily identified, tracked, and managed across different points in the supply chain. The primary purpose of a UPC is to facilitate efficient inventory management, automate checkout processes, and ensure consistency in product identification globally.

Basically, the structure of a UPC consists of three main components: the manufacturer identification number, the product number, and the check digit. The manufacturer identification number generally occupies the first six to nine digits, while the product number follows. The final digit is a checksum, which helps verify the accuracy of the entire code. While predominantly used in North America, UPCs are universally recognized, making them an indispensable tool for global commerce.

Difference Between SKU and UPC Code

Understanding the difference between SKU and UPC codes is essential for effective inventory and product management.

SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)

SKUs are internal codes used by retailers to manage inventory. They are typically alphanumeric and can be customized to include details such as product category, size, color, or storage location. This flexibility allows businesses to track stock levels, analyze sales data, and forecast demand more accurately. For example, a clothing retailer might use different SKUs for various sizes and colors of the same shirt style, enabling precise inventory management tailored to their specific needs.

UPC (Universal Product Code)

In contrast, UPCs are globally standardized 12-digit numerical codes assigned to products by their manufacturers. The primary purpose of a UPC is to facilitate automated checkouts, inventory management, and product identification across multiple retailers. UPCs ensure consistency in product information, making them indispensable for global commerce. When a cashier scans a UPC at checkout, it retrieves the product’s price and updates inventory records instantly, reducing errors and speeding up transactions.

Key Differences Between the Two

The following table outlines the key differences between these two coding systems, providing a clear comparison to help you grasp their unique characteristics and applications.

Both SKUs and UPCs play crucial roles in inventory and product management. SKUs help businesses maintain detailed internal records, while UPCs enable seamless operations and consistency on a global scale. Understanding these differences allows businesses to effectively utilize both systems to optimize their workflows.

Why You Need to Look Up a UPC Code？

Looking up a UPC code can be essential for various reasons. Retailers and wholesalers often need to verify the authenticity of products, ensuring that what they receive from suppliers matches the description and specifications listed in their databases. This verification process helps prevent fraud and misrepresentation, which can save businesses significant amounts of money and maintain their reputation.

Additionally, consumers may find it necessary to look up a UPC code to compare prices and check product reviews before making a purchase. With access to accurate product information, consumers can make informed decisions, avoiding potentially poor-quality or overpriced items. Whether you’re a retailer, wholesaler, or consumer, knowing how to efficiently perform a UPC lookup can enhance your buying and selling experience.

How to Do a UPC Lookup

When it comes to performing a UPC lookup, several methods can be employed depending on your specific needs and available tools. Below we explore common scenarios:

Walmart UPC Code Lookup

Walmart, being one of the largest retailers, requires specific UPC codes for its products. To look up a Walmart UPC code:

1. Visit Walmart’s official website.
2. Use the search bar to enter the product name or description.
3. Scroll through the list of search results and click on the item that best matches what you need.
4. Once you’re on the product page, right-click anywhere on the screen and select “View Page Source” from the context menu.
5. A new tab will open showing the HTML code of the page. Press CTRL+F (Windows) or Command+F (Mac) to open the search function in the source code. Type “UPC”into the search box. The number following “UPC” in the highlighted text is the product’s UPC.

Alternatively, third-party websites and apps specialized for Walmart products can assist in finding relevant UPC codes.

Target UPC Lookup

Similar to Walmart, Target provides UPC codes for its products. To look up a Target UPC code:

1. Begin by opening your preferred internet browser and going to Target.com.
2. Type the product name or relevant details into the search bar located at the top of the page, then press Enter.
3. Browse through the list of products that appear in the search results.
4. Click on the item that closely matches what you’re looking for to open its product page.
5. Scroll down to the bottom of the product page where you’ll find various product details. Look for the section labeled “UPC.” Alternatively, you can use the search function by pressing CTRL+F (Windows) or Command+F (Mac) and typing “UPC”to quickly locate this information.

Third-party UPC lookup services can also be used for Target-specific products.

Amazon UPC Code Lookup

Amazon utilizes ASINs (Amazon Standard Identification Numbers), but UPC codes are also provided for many products. To find an Amazon UPC code:

1. Visit the Amazon’s official website.
2. Enter keywords or descriptions of the product in the search bar and press Enter.
3. Browse the results and click on the item that best matches your needs.
4. Press CTRL+F (Windows) or Command+F (Mac) and search for “ASIN” on the product page.
5. Locate and copy the ASIN number from the product details.
6. Visit an ASIN to UPC converter website, paste the ASIN, and click “Search” to get the UPC number.

By following these streamlined steps, you can efficiently find the UPC number for any product listed on the Amazon web page.

Using Barcode Scanners for UPC Lookup

Barcode scanners are essential tools for quick and accurate UPC lookups. These devices can read the barcode and instantly display product information. Modern mobile apps with barcode scanning capabilities make it even more convenient. Simply point your smartphone camera at the UPC, and the app retrieves the relevant details. This feature is incredibly useful for both consumers and businesses, streamlining the verification and management of products.

Barcode Scanner

Conclusion

Mastering the art of looking up a UPC number can significantly enhance your business operations, whether you’re involved in retail, e-commerce, or supply chain management. From understanding the distinctions between SKUs and UPCs to performing reverse lookups and utilizing barcode scanners, having this knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and maintain accurate product records. Next time you encounter a UPC, you’ll be well-equipped to unlock the valuable information it holds.

Stay ahead of the curve and continue enhancing your knowledge about inventory management, retail strategies, and more. Explore our extensive collection of articles designed to help you succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. Click here to read more!

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