What is a barcode?
A barcode stores a short piece of text or a number as a pattern of bars and spaces that a scanner can read in a fraction of a second. Different barcode types, called symbologies, suit different jobs: some hold only digits and are used at shop tills, others hold letters too and are used for stock and shipping.
Which barcode type to choose
- Code 128 — letters, numbers and symbols in a compact code. The usual choice for SKUs, stock labels and shipping.
- EAN-13 — the 13-digit retail barcode used on products in most of the world.
- UPC-A — the 12-digit retail barcode used in the United States and Canada.
- EAN-8 — an 8-digit version of EAN for very small packs.
- Code 39 — capital letters and numbers. Older and wider than Code 128, but still required in some industries.
- ITF-14 — a 14-digit code for the outer cartons that hold retail products.
How to use the barcode generator
- Enter the value you want to encode.
- Choose the barcode type. If the value does not fit that type, the message under the form says what it needs.
- Adjust the bar width and height and decide whether the text is printed under the bars.
- Download PNG or SVG, or print the barcode on its own.
Good to know
- For EAN, UPC and ITF codes you can leave off the last digit; the check digit is worked out and added for you.
- SVG stays sharp at any size, which makes it the better choice for print. PNG is easier to place in documents and label software.
- Keep the white margin around the bars and do not stretch the image sideways. Print a test and scan it before you order labels in bulk.
- To sell through retailers you need EAN or UPC numbers issued to your company by GS1. This tool draws the barcode; it does not issue the numbers.
Frequently asked questions
Which barcode should I use for my products?
For items sold in shops, use EAN-13, or UPC-A in North America, with numbers issued by GS1. For internal stock, SKUs and shipping labels, Code 128 is the practical choice because it accepts letters as well as digits.
Are the barcodes free to use?
Yes. The images you download are yours to use on labels, packaging and documents without charge or attribution.
Why does my EAN or UPC number show an error?
The last digit of these codes is a check digit calculated from the others. If you type a full number with a wrong last digit it is rejected. Enter the number without its last digit and the correct one is added.
Can my phone scan these barcodes?
Yes, with a barcode scanner app; most free ones read all six types. A phone camera on its own usually reads only QR codes. Give the code enough size and contrast, and scan it from a printed label or a clean screen.