GS1 EAN codes on bol: what are they and do you need them?
Lars HurkmansCo-founder1 July 2023Reading time 4 minutes
To sell on bol you need a valid EAN code registered with GS1 for every item, for both branded and unbranded products. An EAN code identifies your product uniquely; without GS1 registration bol can take your item offline. You order the codes as an annual package from GS1.
As a seller on bol, it is important to understand how product identification works. A crucial part of that is the EAN code: a unique product identification code that is mandatory for selling on bol. We explain what an EAN code is, how it is built up, how you create one with GS1, and why GS1 registration is mandatory for bol. This is part of the basics you need to have in order when you start selling on bol.
What is an EAN code?
EAN stands for European Article Number. It is a code that is unique to every product. That code sits underneath the barcode and gives the product a unique identifier. The EAN code is a globally accepted system for identifying products and is used in both physical shops and on online sales platforms.
8-digit and 13-digit EAN codes
There are two main types of EAN codes: the 8-digit and the 13-digit. The 13-digit EAN code, also known as EAN-13, is the most widely used and consists of a 2-digit country code, a 5-digit manufacturer code, a 5-digit product code and a check digit. The 8-digit EAN code (EAN-8) is a shorter version and is usually used for smaller products that a full EAN-13 does not fit on.
How is the EAN code built up?
The 13-digit EAN code consists of several parts. The first part is a 2-digit country code that indicates in which country the manufacturer is registered. The second part is a 5-digit manufacturer code that is unique to every company. The third part is a 5-digit product code that the manufacturer assigns to each individual product. The last digit is a check digit, calculated from the preceding digits to verify the accuracy of the whole code.
What is the difference between GS1 EAN codes and other EAN codes?
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there is an important difference. A GS1 code is a standardised identification code for uniquely identifying and tracking objects, locations and transport units in the global trade system. A key characteristic is that GS1 codes are always registered under a company name. That makes them traceable to the company that produces or sells the product.
How do you create an EAN code with GS1?
Creating an EAN code with GS1 is a simple process. You order a code package from GS1 and choose from several packages, depending on the number of codes you need. The costs for these packages are annual. A GS1 code package for 100 codes, for example, costs 85 euros per year, while a package for 100,000 codes costs 450 euros per year. Once you have chosen and paid for the package, you receive the EAN codes, which you assign to your products. If you work with a private label, your trademark registration with the BOIP belongs here too.
Which EAN codes do you need to sell on bol?
To offer an item via bol you need a valid, registered EAN code, and it has to be registered with GS1. Important to know: both branded and unbranded items must have an EAN code that is registered with GS1. What else you may and may not offer, you can read in the product rules for selling on bol as a business.
What are the consequences if you do not have a GS1 EAN code?
Not having a GS1 EAN code can have serious consequences for your sales on bol. According to bol's policy, listings with a GTIN/EAN without GS1 registration can be taken offline. Your products are then no longer visible or available to customers, which leads to lost sales and income.
Summary
- Mandatory on bol. Every item needs a valid EAN code registered with GS1, branded and unbranded alike.
- Structure. The EAN-13 consists of a country code, a manufacturer code, a product code and a check digit.
- GS1 registration counts. GS1 codes are registered under a company name and are traceable; loose codes without GS1 do not qualify.
- Annual costs. You order a code package from GS1; the price depends on the number of codes.
- No GS1 registration = risk. Bol can take such listings offline.