How Much Is the Barcode of the USA? Meaning and How to Check
How much is the barcode of the USA? U.S. barcodes usually begin with numbers ranging from 000–019 and 030–039. This is a quick way to identify the origin of imported products from the United States. In this article, you will clearly understand the meaning of U.S. barcodes, how to check them accurately, as well as how to distinguish them from goods from other countries to shop safely with peace of mind.
1. What is the Barcode of the USA? What is Its Structure?
U.S. barcodes usually start with number ranges issued by GS1 US, specifically:
000–019, 030–039, 060–139 → issued to U.S. companies.
020–029, 040–049 → internal codes, not circulated internationally.
050–059 → reserved for coupons.
200–299 → restricted codes, for special use.
Important meaning: The first three digits only indicate where the code was registered at GS1 US. They do not confirm that the product was manufactured in the U.S. A product with this prefix could still be manufactured in China or Vietnam, as long as the company owns the code registered in the U.S.
Structure of U.S. barcodes:
UPC-A (12 digits): The most common standard in the U.S.
UPC-E (compressed): Used for small products to save printing space.
EAN-13 (13 digits): International standard compatible with UPC, often seen in exported products.
2. How to Check U.S. Barcodes
To verify barcodes of products originating from or registered in the U.S., you can follow these 4 steps:
Step 1 – Check the first three digits
See if the first three digits fall within the ranges 000–019, 030–039, or 060–139.
Note: Some re-exported products (e.g., U.S. goods exported to Canada and then imported into Vietnam) may have a different prefix.
Step 2 – Calculate the check digit (Checksum)
The last digit of the barcode is the checksum, calculated using a mathematical rule to ensure validity.
Example with a 12-digit UPC-A:
Add all digits in odd positions, then multiply by 3.
Add the total of digits in even positions.
Divide the sum by 10. If the remainder ≠ 0, subtract the remainder from 10 → this is the check digit.
Illustrated example in the table:
If the check digit matches → the code is valid.
Step 3 – Scan using mobile applications
For convenience, you can scan barcodes with mobile apps such as iCheck Scan, Barcode Việt, QRbot, or Barcode Scanner. These apps not only read codes but also display product information.
Step 4 – Lookup through GS1 or online tools
Finally, you can use official online tools such as Verified by GS1, GEPIR, Barcode Lookup, or UPC Database to know exactly which company owns the barcode.
3. Common Misconceptions about U.S. Barcodes
U.S. barcodes do not mean “Made in USA.” They only indicate the company registered the code at GS1 US, not the manufacturing location.
Internal codes and coupon codes: Some ranges (020–029, 040–049, 050–059) are only for internal use or coupons, not for international commercial products.
Do not guarantee 100% authenticity: Codes can be faked or reprinted. You should also check packaging, logos, anti-counterfeit stamps, and seller credibility.
Re-exported products can cause confusion: U.S. goods re-exported through Canada may carry Canada’s prefix (754–755), no longer a U.S. prefix.
4. Comparison of U.S. Barcodes with Other Countries
Each country has its own prefixes and barcode standards. Comparing them helps consumers easily recognize the origin and distinguish products across markets.
To learn more about barcodes of other countries, you can also refer to the article “Barcodes of Countries Worldwide.”
Conclusion
In summary, U.S. barcodes issued by GS1 US usually fall within the ranges 000–019, 030–039, and 060–139 and have the structures UPC-A, UPC-E, and EAN-13. Remember, barcodes only show the place of registration, not proof that a product is “Made in USA.” Therefore, always combine barcode checking with packaging, anti-counterfeit labels, and seller credibility to make safe and accurate purchases.
