EAN-2
A 2-digit add-on barcode beside EAN-13/UPC on magazines and newspapers, typically carrying the issue number.
EAN-2 Specification
| Character set | Digits 0-9 only |
| Data length | Exactly 2 digits |
| Check digit | Hidden check digit encoded in the parity pattern, not printed as text |
| Density | 20 modules total |
| Module width (X-dimension) | Nominal 0.33 mm X, matching the adjacent main symbol |
| Print ratio | Variable-width bars and spaces |
| Magnification | Must match the main symbol magnification (80%-200%) |
| Quiet zone | Separator gap from the main symbol; quiet zone on the outer side |
| Standard | GS1 General Specifications (add-on supplements) |
| Origin | EAN International (now GS1), 1977 |
| Sample data | 53 |
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What Is EAN-2?
The EAN-2 (2-digit add-on) is the smallest EAN supplement: two digits in a compact symbol printed immediately right of the main retail barcode. Its classic use is periodicals — the ISSN-derived EAN-13 identifies the magazine, while the add-on carries the issue number of the week or month, so the same checkstand scans every issue of a title without re-keying anything.
It encodes the two digits plus a hidden check digit folded into parity patterns. Because two digits can only count 00-99, it suits cyclical data like issue numbers, edition flags, or weight-band codes — not unique identification. Newspapers, weekly magazines, and comic series remain its natural habitat.
Common Applications
- Magazine and newspaper issue numbers
- Edition or variant flags on periodic publications
- Newspaper bundles and subscription inserts
Related Barcode Types
The 13-digit retail point-of-sale barcode used on consumer products worldwide outside North America.
A 5-digit add-on barcode printed beside EAN-13/UPC on books and magazines, typically carrying price.
The EAN-13-based identification number for serials — journals, magazines, and newspapers — with a 2-digit issue add-on.
EAN-2 FAQ
What data goes in the EAN-2 on a magazine?
By convention the issue number: 01-12 for monthly magazines (January = 01), 01-53 for weeklies by ISO week number. The EAN-2 always travels with an ISSN-based EAN-13 or UPC that identifies the publication itself; the add-on only disambiguates which issue.
Why is there a hidden check digit I cannot see?
The add-on has too little space for a printed check digit, so the two data digits are encoded with one of four parity patterns chosen by a check value. Scanners use the pattern to validate the read; the transmitted data is still just your two digits.