When to Use EAN-8: Timing, Triggers, and Best Choices

When should you choose EAN-8?

EAN-8 becomes the right choice at specific decision points in product development and retail planning: when packaging space is too limited for EAN-13, during the early product design and labeling phase, or when a product’s dimensions or aesthetic require a compact barcode. The decision to use EAN-8 is typically made before printing packaging and before product rollout to retailers so systems and partners can prepare to accept the shorter GTIN.

Typical moments when EAN-8 is selected

• During packaging design: Designers who face tight label real estate for small items may opt for EAN-8 to avoid compromising look and functionality.
• At SKU creation and product launch: When launching small-format products, the team decides the GTIN type—EAN-8 may be selected if the item cannot accommodate EAN-13.
• When converting existing packaging: If product packaging is downsized or redesigned, a previously used EAN-13 might be replaced by EAN-8 to fit the new layout, provided GS1 allows it and systems are updated.
• When cost or simplicity matters for micro-producers: Small producers with a handful of SKUs may seek short codes to reduce complexity; in some markets GS1 provides short-code options or guidance at registration time.

When not to use EAN-8

• For large assortments: If you manage a large number of SKUs or anticipate growth, EAN-13 is typically preferred because of its greater numbering capacity.
• When marketplace rules require longer GTINs: Many large eCommerce marketplaces and retailers prefer or require GTIN-13/GTIN-14 for product data feeds and catalogue synchronization, so using EAN-8 may complicate online listing and data sharing.

Timing in the product lifecycle

• Preproduction and artwork approval: Decide early. Once packaging plates are produced, changing barcode format adds cost and delay.
• Before retailer onboarding: Communicate the EAN-8 code to trading partners so their POS and inventory systems can be updated and validated ahead of shipment.
• Testing phase: Scan test prints in real retail environments and with different scanner models prior to mass production to ensure readability.

Historical timing—when was EAN-8 introduced?

EAN-8 originated as part of the EAN/UPC family developed in the latter part of the 20th century to standardize retail barcoding. The shorter 8-digit format was introduced to accommodate small items that could not physically host the full 13-digit symbol. Over time, EAN-8 became an established option within the GS1 system, though it has always been used selectively due to limited number capacity.

When to contact GS1

• Before choosing EAN-8: Contact your national GS1 office whenever you consider EAN-8 to confirm availability and eligibility.
• When expanding SKUs: If your product range grows, consult GS1 about migrating from EAN-8 to EAN-13 or implementing parent/child GTIN strategies.

When to test and validate

• Before mass printing: Validate barcode scans with different scanners and in actual retail checkouts to avoid unreadable batches.
• After printing: Random-sample printed units and re-scan periodically to confirm consistent print quality and durability through handling and storage.

Practical checklist: When to move forward with EAN-8

1. Confirm packaging size constraints and that EAN-13 won’t fit without major changes.
2. Contact GS1 to confirm EAN-8 issuance rules and availability for your region.
3. Design barcode placement with adequate quiet zones, contrast, and print quality specs.
4. Run scan tests with real scanners and POS systems to confirm readability and mapping to product records.
5. Notify retail and distribution partners before launch so they can update their systems.

When to change from EAN-8 to another format

Consider migrating away from EAN-8 if your product portfolio expands significantly, if trading partners require EAN-13 for data exchange, or if product listings on marketplaces ask for GTIN-13/14. Migration should be planned to minimize stock disruption and ensure all systems and printed materials are updated together.

Summary

In short, the right time to use EAN-8 is early in product design when packaging limits preclude a larger barcode, and when you’ve checked GS1 availability and retail system compatibility. EAN-8 is a practical, timing-sensitive choice that must be coordinated with partners and validated through scanning tests to ensure smooth adoption in the supply chain.