If you’re putting out a magazine, a barcode on the cover is a must for efficient tracking and sales management. A barcode is a unique mix of numbers and lines scanned by a reader to pull up details about the attached product. For magazines, barcodes aid in managing inventory, tracking sales, and keeping everything organised. In this guide, we’ll dive into why you need a barcode for your magazine and the steps to get one.

What’s a Magazine Barcode and Do You Need One?

A magazine barcode is in the EAN-13 (or EAN-13+2) format, typically a 13-digit code derived from the magazine's 8-digit ISSN (International Standard Serial Number). An additional 2-digit barcode can be added at the end to indicate the issue number (e.g., 01 for issue 1).

What’s an ISSN?

An ISSN is an 8-digit identifier for serial publications like magazines. It’s vital for cataloging, managing, and distributing periodicals effectively.

You can get an ISSN from your local ISSN Agency (visit the International ISSN Centre website for more info).

Typically, the ISSN is shown as two groups of four digits separated by a hyphen (e.g., ISSN 1234-5678).

This ISSN converts into a 13-digit EAN-13 barcode, commonly used in retail, usually starting with "977" to indicate a periodical.

Components of a Magazine Barcode:

Prefix: "977" always starts a periodical barcode.

ISSN Digits: The first 7 digits of the ISSN (excluding the hyphen) follow the prefix.

Price Code: A 2-digit number indicating the issue or a variant. Usually "00". Update this if the price changes, e.g., from 00 to 01, and generate a new barcode.

Check Digit ('X'): The last digit, a calculated check to ensure the barcode's accuracy.

Optional: A 2-digit supplemental barcode to denote the issue number.

Example: For a magazine with ISSN 1234-5678, the EAN-13 barcode would be: 977123456700X (where 'X' is the check digit). If the price changes, it would be 977123456701X.

Optionally, the barcode could be EAN-13+2 format, with a 2-digit supplement to denote issue numbers. For example, 12 yearly issues could be 01-12, with issue 1 being 977123456700X-01.

What are the Perks of Having a Magazine Barcode?

Retail: Streamlines scanning and tracking sales at checkout.

Distribution: Helps manage and track different magazine issues.

Cataloging: Aids libraries, bookstores, and distributors in efficiently cataloging and managing serials.

Steps to Getting a Barcode for Your Magazine

Start by obtaining an ISSN from your local ISSN Agency (check out the International ISSN Centre website for details). Once you have your ISSN, order the ISSN barcode images here. Enter your ISSN in the 'order notes' section during checkout, along with any other relevant details like price code or supplement digits. The barcode images will be created and sent to you via email.

With your barcode image ready, incorporate it into your magazine cover design. Ensure the barcode is clear, easily scannable, and prominently placed. This boosts sales, tracking, and adds a professional touch. Always test the barcode before printing to confirm it scans correctly and meets industry standards.

Getting a barcode for your magazine is key for tracking, sales, and exposure. Follow these steps to obtain a barcode and leverage its benefits. Whether you’re an independent publisher or a major distributor, having a barcode simplifies operations and enhances the reader’s experience.