Barcodes and EAN: organise your shop
Scanning instead of typing is not just faster: it avoids price mistakes and balances stock for you. Understanding barcodes saves a lot of time at the till.
What a barcode (and an EAN) is
A barcode is that set of lines the scanner turns into a number. On retail products that number is usually an EAN-13: a unique code identifying the product worldwide. When you scan it, your POS instantly knows what it is and its price.
Why use them
- Faster checkout: a beep instead of searching and typing.
- No price mistakes: the price comes from the system, not memory.
- Stock up to date: each sale discounts the right unit.
Create each product with its EAN once. From then on, just scan.
What about items with no code?
Loose fruit, homemade or unlabelled goods: print your own label with an internal code and stick it on. For items by weight, the scale can generate a label with the price already worked out. Everything then goes through the scanner the same way.
What you need
A barcode scanner (simple USB ones work great) and a POS that stores each product EAN. Cheap and simple: one of those investments you notice fast day to day.
Charge with a beep and balance stock by itself
Bipe stores each product EAN and discounts stock as you scan. Try it free.
Try Bipe free →Frequently asked questions
Do I have to buy EAN codes?
If you sell branded products, they already come with their EAN printed: you just add them. If you make or pack your own, internal codes work for your shop; selling through big retail chains usually requires official EANs.
Does any scanner work?
For normal EANs, yes: a basic USB scanner is fine. If you handle QR codes or codes on a phone screen, pick a 2D one.
What about products by weight?
The scale can print a label with a code carrying the weight and price. The scanner reads it like any other product.