Should UK spirits producers use UPC 12-digit or EAN 13-digit codes for US distribution?

Both UPC 12-digit and EAN 13-digit codes can work for US distribution, though some control states may prefer UPC codes.

**Key findings from members:** - **EAN 13 codes** are acceptable for US distribution. Members have successfully used EAN 13 codes for both US and Canadian launches, and GS1 confirmed there has been no requirement to change from EAN 13 to UPC since 2005. - **UPC 12-digit codes** are used by some members and may be preferred by certain importers and control states. One member noted that some control states can be "fussy about reading EAN 13 digit codes," making UPC 12 the safer choice in those jurisdictions. However, this member also reported that the need to print custom labels anyway (for importer/distributor branding) meant the barcode format wasn't a practical problem. - The decision may depend on your importer and distribution network; check with your specific US importer or distributor about their regional requirements, particularly if entering control states.

**Related recommendation:** For label printing, members recommend **Reflex Labels** (contact Sara Lane, +44 7736 925860 or saral@reflexlabelplus.co.uk) for short-run, quick-turnaround labels including specialty finishes like gold foiling.