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UPC barcode numbers are not random numbers chosen by a brand owner, but a string of numbers which adhere to a global standard to enable products to be sold worldwide. Available online content regarding barcodes for comic books is either dated or completely incorrect, which causes even more confusion. The configuration has always been challenging, which is a result of the changing requirements within an evolving industry. Unlike consumer product goods, a 2 or 5 digit supplemental barcode is included to the right of the 12-digit UPC barcode.
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Since the 1980s, comic books sold in retail have included UPC barcodes.
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