How to Read a UPC Coupon Code

By Donna L Montaldo, About.com Guide

Most all UPC Coupon Codes are made up of five sections and a total of 12 numbers. Each section is used to help match coupons to products and determine the value of the coupon.

1) All coupons should begin with the number 5, which is called the NSC or Number System Character.

2) Next comes a five digit (12345 above) manufacturer number. This number should match the manufacturer number on the product.

3) The next set of three numbers (678) is called the family code. This code is used to verify that the shopper has purchased the product which applies to the coupon.

4) The two numbers which follow the family code is called the value code. This determines the value of the coupon.

5) The final number is called a check digit. All UPC numbers contain a check digit which is automatically calculated based on the previous numbers on the UPC symbol.

Most all manufacturer grocery coupons use the coding shown above.

There are times when you may receive a grocery coupon which does not have any coupon code. Grocery store coupon game pieces, coupons found inside products, such as dog food, and coupons on packaging like bottle caps and can lids are the most common coupons found without the UPC codes.

See Also: Decoding the UPC Code Can Increase Grocery Store Savings