If the packaging or labeling for a product has yet to be printed,  high precision bar code artwork can be provided to printers/graphic designers, so they include the symbol within their layout. We can provide  U.P.C. symbols either as an electronic file (EPSymboltm) or as piece of film (negative/positive). Our cost for U.P.C. film masters and EPSymbolstm is $15.00  each. We do offer a secure online service which enables companies to create and download bar code files (EPSymbolstm) online at anytime 24/7. The price for EPSymbolstm created online is only $10.00 each (www.createbarcodes.com) 

To create a U.P.C. symbol, we require the following information:

  1. UCC Company Prefix - This is the 6-9 digit number assigned by the GSI US (formerly the Uniform Code Council ). The Company Prefix is always the same for each product U.P.C. within a company. If you do not yet have a Company Prefix, you must contact the UCC at (937)435-3870. Please be aware that there are independent companies who claim to offer U.P.C. numbers for a discounted fee. This practice is completely against UCC policy and unsuspecting companies may have significant issues when they begin to sell to large retailers. Click here for more information

  2. Product Numbers - Each individual product must assigned a unique product number. For organizations with a 6-digit Company Prefix, a 5-digit product number must be created. Companies with a 9-digit Company Prefix, can only create a 2-digit number. The Company Prefix and Product Numbers must always total 11-digits. (The 12th digit in a U.P.C. is a check digit, which we automatically calculate when producing symbols.)

  3. Size of the symbol (Magnification) - The standard 100% symbol needs a total area of 1.46" x 1.02". The smallest U.P.C. symbol is an 80%, which needs a total area of 1.1875" x .8125".  To view a UPC magnification table, click here.

  4. Bar Width Reduction - (Optional data required) One of the aspects which make film masters and EPSymbolstm unique is the compensation factor built-in for ink spread. Normally, this information can be provided by a printer. If this information is unknown, do not worry. Both our online program and customer service agents can ascertain the appropriate reduction required.

  5. Format  - If you require an EPSymboltm , we need to know if it is for either a PC or MAC. If a Film Master is requested, we need to know the type of film: negative or positive, image polarity right reading up or down. Your printer will be able to inform you what is required. Additionally, a positive black/white camera-ready copy can also be provided.

  6. Delivery - Electronic files can be emailed within a few hours or provided on disk. We produce all artwork the same day as received. Film Masters can be shipped via mail, UPS, or FEDEX. International shipping is also available.