What is an EAN number?
The definition of an EAN code is relatively simple: EAN stands for"European Article Number" and is a European standard for product labeling. The EAN number is used to uniquely identify commercial products.
Properties of the EAN:
- Purpose: Identification of goods for trade and logistics
- Length: Usually 13 digits (EAN-13), sometimes also 8 digits (EAN-8) for small products
- Use: Scanning at the checkout, warehouse management, product registration
Example of an EAN: 4006381333931
The EAN is very common in Europe and is mainly used in the retail sector.
What is a GTIN number?
The GTIN(Global Trade Item Number) is an international generic term for all product identifiers that enable unique identification. It includes EAN, UPC (in the USA) and other variants.
Properties of the GTIN:
- Purpose: Globally unique identification of products, no matter where in the world
- Variants:
- GTIN-13: corresponds to EAN-13
- GTIN-12: corresponds to UPC-A in the USA
- GTIN-8: corresponds to EAN-8
- Use: online trade, international logistics, product databases
With the GTIN, manufacturers, retailers and platforms worldwide can ensure that every product is clearly identified.
Difference between EAN and GTIN: Why both terms exist
The difference between EAN and GTIN lies mainly in the geographical development and standardization. Here is an overview of the most important differences:
| Characteristic | EAN | GTIN |
| Meaning | European Article Number | Global Trade Item Number |
| Area of application | Europe, retail trade | Worldwide, global trade |
| Variants | EAN-13, EAN-8 | GTIN-8, GTIN-12, GTIN-13, GTIN-14 |
| Product function | Unique product identifier | Generic term for all product numbers worldwide |
In practice, the difference between EAN and GTIN is minimal. An EAN-13 is also a GTIN-13. Today, both terms refer to the same product identification system.
In short: the EAN is a special form of the GTIN. While the EAN is mainly used in Europe, the GTIN covers the global market. Those who sell internationally or list products in online stores generally work with the GTIN, while the EAN remains the standard identifier in many European stores.
Why do I need an EAN or GTIN for my music products?
If you release music products such as CDs, vinyls or even merchandising items, you need an EAN or GTIN to clearly identify your products in stores and online.
- Sales in online stores and streaming platforms: Digital stores such as Amazon, iTunes or Spotify require a GTIN so that your product is listed correctly
- Simple logistics and stock management: With EAN/GTIN, retailers can easily record and sell your product
- Allocation of revenue: Platforms recognize which artist or label a product belongs to thanks to the GTIN - important for royalties and settlements
- Professional appearance: Products with a valid GTIN appear serious and professional, which strengthens the trust of retailers and customers
How do I get an EAN number for my products?
There are several ways to obtain an EAN number for your products:
Option 1: Via distribution partners such as FEIYR
- Many music distributors or aggregators issue EAN/GTINs for your music products if you publish them through them
- Advantages: Simple, fast, no own costs for EAN registration, can be used directly for digital and physical releases
- Disadvantages: The EAN often remains tied to the distributor; you can't always reuse it independently
Option 2: Via GS1 Germany
- GS1 is the official organization for assigning EAN/GTIN numbers worldwide.
- Advantages: Officially and internationally recognized, no problems with distributors or online stores
- Disadvantages: Membership and assignment can be costly, especially for smaller companies
- Ideal if you are planning a large number of products or want to sell internationally in the long term
Option 3: Via EAN resellers
- Description: There are agencies that issue EANs on your behalf without you having to be a GS1 member
- Advantages: Cheaper than GS1 membership, quickly available
- Disadvantages: Not always recognized worldwide, some retailers or platforms might reject the number
Practical application with FEIYR
If you create your physical releases via FEIYR, you can easily manage your EAN or GTIN:
- Enter your existing EAN/GTIN in the corresponding field
- Have a new number generated automatically if you don't already have one
- Please note that each product variant - such as CD, vinyl or different editions - requires its own EAN
- FEIYR provides you with the EAN and barcode graphic, which you can integrate directly into your artwork. For physical productions via FEIYR, the barcode is automatically taken into account
Conclusion: Two terms, one system
The difference between GTIN and EAN is practically negligible today - both terms refer to the same system for unique product identification, which is essential for the successful sale of your physical music products.
