Decoding EPC's
1. Identifying the EPC Format (SGTIN-96)
One of the most common EPC formats is SGTIN-96 (Serialized Global Trade Item Number).
To determine if an EPC is in SGTIN-96 format:
- Look at the header value (the first 8 bits of the EPC).
- If the header equals 30 (hexadecimal) or 40 (decimal), the EPC is in SGTIN-96 format.
2. Decoding an EPC Using GS1 Tool
The easiest way to decode an EPC is by using the official GS1 decoder:
- Go to the GS1 EPC Encoder/Decoder
- Paste your EPC (usually in hexadecimal format) at the bottom of the decoder
- The tool will automatically parse and display all components
3. Understanding EPC Components
An SGTIN-96 EPC is made up of several fields:
Header
- Identifies the EPC scheme (e.g., SGTIN-96)
- For SGTIN-96, this value is 30 (hexadecimal) or 40 (decimal)
Filter
- Provides context about the packaging level (item, case, pallet, etc.)
Partition
- Determines how bits are split between:
- Company Prefix
- Item Reference
Company Prefix
- Assigned by GS1
- Identifies the company or brand
Item Reference
- Identifies the product
- Combined with the Company Prefix → forms the GTIN
Serial Number
- Unique identifier for each individual item
Using Verified by GS1 to Verify the Product
- Plug the GTIN Value into Verified by GS1
- This will give you the Product and the Company
- You can use this to find a the Company that matches the Company Prefix
