What a UPC is
What the UPC identifies, how it differs from the ISRC and the catalog number, and how UXEM assigns one.
The UPC (Universal Product Code, also called EAN) identifies the release as a product: the single, EP or full album. It doesn't identify individual tracks.
What a UPC looks like
It's 12 digits (UPC) or 13 digits (EAN). It's the release's "barcode".
Each release has a single UPC. A different edition (deluxe, remastered) released as a separate product gets its own UPC.
Where it goes in UXEM
In the Codes & Legal step, the UPC/EAN Code (Optional) field.
- If you already have one, enter it.
- If you leave it blank, UXEM assigns one.
Don't confuse it with the catalog number
The same step has two other fields, both optional and for your own internal use:
- Catalog Number — your catalog reference (for example,
2024-ALB-0001). - Reference Number — any additional reference.
Neither replaces the UPC or works as a barcode.
What it's for
Stores use the UPC to identify the release in their catalog, and release-level reports are matched by that code.
Was this article helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Related articles
What the ISRC identifies, how it's structured, when UXEM assigns one, and why it locks after distribution.
When to reuse a recording's ISRC and when you need a new one.
Where to find a release's UPC and each track's ISRC, and how to request a full list.