In today’s retail and supply chain environments, UPC codes play a crucial role in ensuring products are accurately identified, tracked, and managed. Among the many UPCs in circulation, UPC 028400626217 stands out due to its specific application and the importance it holds for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers alike. Understanding what UPC 028400626217 represents, how it functions, and why accurate identification matters is essential in avoiding errors, preventing counterfeit products, and streamlining operations.
What is UPC 028400626217?
Definition of UPC (Universal Product Code)
The Universal Product Code (UPC) is a standardized barcode widely used in retail to uniquely identify products. It consists of a 12-digit numeric code that encodes specific information about a product, enabling quick and accurate scanning at checkout counters globally. The UPC system simplifies inventory management, reduces checkout errors, and supports efficient supply chain logistics.
Explanation of UPC 028400626217
Within this system, UPC 028400626217 serves as a unique identifier assigned to a particular product. This specific UPC is registered with a manufacturer or brand, linking it to detailed product information stored in databases. Whether used on packaging, online listings, or in inventory systems, UPC 028400626217 ensures that consumers and retailers both recognize the product quickly and accurately.
Context of its Use in Retail and Labeling
Retailers rely heavily on UPCs like 028400626217 to facilitate smooth checkout experiences, manage stock levels, and collect sales data. Labeling products with a distinctive UPC prevents misidentification and guarantees the correct product is sold and tracked across different points in the supply chain. The consistent use of UPCs like UPC 028400626217 helps maintain product integrity from manufacture through to the consumer.
Breakdown of UPC 028400626217
Structure of the UPC
The UPC is a 12-digit numeric code divided into specific parts, each playing a vital role in product identification:
- Number system digit: The first digit indicates the type of product or the barcode’s general category.
- Manufacturer code: The next five digits identify the company responsible for producing or distributing the product.
- Product code: The following five digits specify the particular item or variant.
- Check digit: The final digit is a checksum for error detection, ensuring the barcode’s integrity during scanning.
In the case of UPC 028400626217, each component can be decoded to reveal specific product details and verify authenticity.
Manufacturer Identification
The manufacturer code embedded within UPC 028400626217 links directly to a registered company, ensuring that only authorized entities utilize this specific set of numbers. Registration with the authoritative GS1 organization guarantees that the code is unique and properly assigned, which helps prevent duplicate or fraudulent use of the same UPC. For example, if the manufacturer code is 02840, this code can be cross-referenced in databases such as the GS1 member organization to identify the registered company—providing transparency and traceability.
Product Details
The product code portion of UPC 028400626217 drills down into specifics such as the product’s type, size, packaging, or version. When combined with the manufacturer code, consumers and retailers can obtain detailed information about the item, including its name, description, category, and branding. For instance, this UPC might correspond to a specific flavor of snack, a particular size of a cleaning product, or a unique model within an electronic line. Variations or versions of the product—such as different colors or sizes—are typically encoded within the product code, making each UPC unique for each variation.
Common Uses of UPC 028400626217
Retail Placement and Shelf Labeling
In retail environments, UPC 028400626217 is used to label products on shelves, facilitating quick scanning during checkout. Accurate labeling ensures that the correct price is charged and the product is correctly recorded in the inventory management system.
Inventory Tracking and Management
Businesses utilize the UPC associated with UPC 028400626217 to monitor stock levels precisely, reorder products efficiently, and analyze sales data. The UPC serves as a key identifier in inventory databases, helping to prevent stockouts or excess stock accumulation.
Point of Sale (POS) Systems
At the checkout, UPC 028400626217 is scanned to retrieve product information instantly, simplifying transactions and reducing errors. Retail POS systems rely on UPCs to update sales data in real-time, which aids in inventory reconciliation and sales reporting.
Online Marketplaces and Listing
When products are listed on e-commerce platforms, the UPC, like UPC 028400626217, helps ensure accurate product identification, straightforward searches, and prevents duplicate listings. Many online retailers verify products through UPCs to maintain data integrity and authenticity.
How to Identify the Product Associated with UPC 028400626217
Using UPC Lookup Tools
Numerous online tools allow consumers and retailers to lookup UPC 028400626217 instantly. Websites like UPCitemdb.com or the official GS1 database offer comprehensive details about the product linked to this code. Retail scanners integrated into POS systems also automatically decode these UPCs, providing immediate verification.
Checking Product Details
Beyond databases, cross-referencing the UPC with manufacturer information ensures accuracy. Examining packaging, labels, and product descriptions helps confirm authenticity and prevent purchase or sale of counterfeit items. For example, verifying that the product name on the package matches the details retrieved from a UPC lookup enhances consumer confidence.
Importance of UPC 028400626217 Accuracy
Avoiding Checkout Errors
Incorrect or mismatched UPCs can lead to pricing errors, customer dissatisfaction, or stock mismanagement. Ensuring that UPC 028400626217 is correctly assigned and scanned minimizes these issues.
Preventing Counterfeit or Duplicate Products
Accurate UPCs like UPC 028400626217 help differentiate genuine products from counterfeits and prevent duplication, which can harm brand reputation and consumer trust.
Streamlining Supply Chain Logistics
Proper UPC management facilitates seamless data flow from manufacturing to retail outlets, accelerating inventory replenishment and reducing delays. Companies leveraging accurate UPC data gain competitive advantage by maintaining a high level of operational efficiency.
Common Challenges or Confusions Surrounding UPC 028400626217
Duplicate or Similar UPCs
Sometimes multiple products may share similar UPCs due to errors, leading to confusion in inventory or sales data. Cross-referencing with official databases is essential to confirm product identity.
Expired or Discontinued Products
Products with outdated or discontinued UPCs may still appear in databases or point-of-sale systems. Regular updates and verification are necessary to ensure current product accuracy.
Mislabeling Issues
Mislabeling can occur at manufacturing or retail stages, causing mismatches between the physical product and its UPC. Vigilant quality control and auditing can minimize such problems.
How to Handle Issues Related to UPC 028400626217
Reporting Incorrect Product Information
If you identify a mismatch or error linked to UPC 028400626217, report it to the retailer or manufacturer. Many companies have dedicated support teams for resolving label or product discrepancies.
Contacting Manufacturer or Retailer
Utilize official contact details provided on packaging or corporate websites to address issues swiftly. Providing clear evidence like photos and product details accelerates resolution.
Corrective Actions for Missing or Mismatched Data
Retailers and manufacturers should regularly audit UPC databases, update product information, and re-label items if necessary to prevent ongoing discrepancies.
Future Trends and Innovations in UPC Technology
Integration with QR Codes and RFID
The future of product identification is heading toward integrating traditional UPCs with QR codes and RFID tags, enabling even faster, contactless, and more secure tracking of products across supply chains.
Enhanced Product Tracking
Advances in data analytics and IoT devices will facilitate detailed product tracking, from manufacturing to consumer delivery. This includes real-time location data and condition monitoring.
Digital Databases and Blockchain Applications
Emerging technologies like blockchain promise to increase transparency and security in product provenance verification, ensuring that UPC codes like UPC 028400626217 reflect genuine goods and prevent counterfeit issues.
Summary Table of UPC 028400626217 Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| UPC Code | 028400626217 |
| Type | 12-digit Numeric Code |
| Manufacturer Code | Part of the code (e.g., 02840) |
| Product Description | Dependent on database, could be a specific snack, electronics, etc. |
| Common Uses | Retail shelving, inventory, POS, online listings |
| Key Benefits | Efficient product identification, inventory management, checkout accuracy |
| Potential Issues | Duplicates, mislabeling, outdated data |
For further details or to verify a product linked to UPC 028400626217, consider consulting official databases like the GS1 organization or authoritative UPC lookup tools.
FAQs About UPC 028400626217
- Q: How can I find the exact product associated with UPC 028400626217?
A: Use online UPC lookup tools such as UPCitemdb or consult the GS1 database for official information. - Q: Is UPC 028400626217 used internationally?
A: Yes, UPCs are globally recognized, though in some regions, EAN barcodes may be more common. - Q: Can a UPC be reused or reassigned?
A: Reuse is discouraged; UPCs are unique identifiers assigned to specific products. Reuse can cause confusion. - Q: What should I do if I find a mismatched UPC on a product?
A: Contact the retailer or manufacturer to report the issue and seek clarification. - Q: How often should UPC databases be updated?
A: Regularly, especially when new products are launched or old products are discontinued. - Q: Are UPCs the same as barcodes?
A: Yes, UPCs are a type of barcode specifically used in the US and Canada. Other barcode formats exist globally.
By understanding and properly managing UPC 028400626217, retailers and consumers can ensure product authenticity, accurate pricing, and smoother supply chain operations. Always verify barcode data and stay updated with current product information to make informed purchasing and selling decisions.