How to get more information from a barcode

Barcodes Don’t Store Product Information—Databases Do

Barcodes are everywhere—from grocery stores to warehouses. Many assume barcodes contain product information. They don’t.

A barcode is simply a visual pattern representing a number or code. This code links to a record in a database. When a cashier scans an item, the barcode itself doesn’t say “apple” or “toothpaste.” Instead, it sends a code, like 0123456789, to a computer.

The store’s database then matches that code with product details. These details include name, price, weight, and even stock levels. Companies manage databases to track inventory, sales, and restocking needs. This system allows the same barcode to represent different products in different stores.

For example, code 123456 might mean “Milk 1L” and code 123457 could be “Milk 3L”.

That’s because the database tells the system what 123456 means.

Barcodes streamline operations, but they don’t hold product data. Understanding this distinction helps clarify how retail systems work. So, next time you scan an item, remember: the magic isn’t in the barcode. It’s in the database behind it.

Barcode database sites or apps search the internet for information about the particular barcode number that has been entered or scanned. The information that is returned is generally company name and/or contact details, relevant product information or even where you can purchase a product.

You can search for any EAN-13 or UPC barcode on various sites or apps (such as International Barcodes Database, IBN Verified, or using smartphone apps). If you own a barcode number, and no results are found when you run a search, you can register your barcode to ensure your information is displayed when searched.

You can also use the IBN Verified search function on our site here.