This article helps our Volunteer Squad keep the database clean and consistent! It pertains to members who have Contributor access and above. If you're interested in getting involved, read more about joining the Squad here. We'd love to have you aboard!


UPCs and other barcodes can be added to Database Items to allow members to use the hobbyDB app to find items in the database. This article explains how to add barcode numbers to Database items. Please see the UPCs and Barcodes page for more information about barcodes on hobbyDB in general.



TABLE OF CONTENTS



Supported Types of Barcodes


We can currently use the following types of barcodes:

  • UPC/EAN
  • BoxLunch
  • Hard Rock International
  • Hot Topic
  • 10 or 13 digit ISBN (Books only)


If there is another type of barcode you'd like to see supported, please contact us!



Guidelines


Always follow these guidelines when entering UPCs and other barcodes:


  • Enter every number in the barcode, including leading or trailing digits that appear visually separated from the rest of the barcode number.

  • Do not include spaces or dashes (barcode scanners read the code as a single string of numbers, so we need to match the format they're expecting).

  • Don't add barcodes to customs, even if the custom was repackaged in the original item's box.

  • If an item doesn't have its own UPC, for example if it's exclusive to a set (such as a multipack), don't add the set's UPC to the database entry for the individual item.



How to add Barcodes


UPCs can be added or edited inline on Database Item pages. Contributors and above can scroll down to the "Reference Numbers" section, hover over Add UPC, and click the blue edit icon:


UPCs and other barcodes can also be added by Squad members with the Creator role in the full edit form. To do this, click the Edit menu, then the Edit button and scroll down to the Reference Numbers section:




Finding Items That Need UPCs


The easiest way to find Database Items with no UPC is to go to the Manage Database Items page, filter for the type of items you want to update (brand, series, etc.), then click the No UPC scope button:



Where to find UPC and Barcode Numbers


If you don't have the item in hand, look for the item on retailer websites such as Amazon, Target, or Walmart — they often list the UPC number along with other item specifications. eBay sellers sometimes also include UPCs in their listings.


If you can't find an item's UPC, don't worry. Another Squad member can always come back and add it later!