How to create a barcode
- Choose the barcode type: EAN-13 or UPC-A for retail products, Code 128 for text and labels, ITF-14 for shipping cartons.
- Enter the number or text. For EAN, UPC and ITF-14, leave out the last digit – the check digit is added automatically. Enter the full number to verify it.
- Adjust bar width, height, colors and the text line under Size, colors and text, then download the barcode as PNG or SVG.
Which barcode type do you need?
| Type | Content | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| EAN-13 | 13 digits (12 + check digit) | Retail products worldwide (GTIN-13) |
| UPC-A | 12 digits (11 + check digit) | Retail products in the USA and Canada |
| EAN-8 | 8 digits (7 + check digit) | Small packages with little space |
| Code 128 | Letters, digits and symbols (ASCII) | Shipping labels, inventory, asset tags, tickets |
| Code 39 | A–Z, 0–9, space and - . $ / + % | Industry, automotive and older label systems |
| ITF-14 | 14 digits (13 + check digit) | Cartons and outer packaging (GTIN-14) |
Code 128 switches automatically between its character sets and packs runs of digits two per symbol, so mostly numeric codes stay short.
Where EAN and UPC numbers come from
The numbers in EAN and UPC barcodes are GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers). To sell products in stores or on most online marketplaces, you need GTINs licensed from GS1, the organization that manages them – a made-up number may already belong to another company. For your own inventory, equipment or internal labels, any Code 128 number works.
For printing, download the SVG: it stays sharp at any size. Do not stretch the barcode unevenly, keep the light margins on the left and right, and print dark bars on a light background. At standard size, an EAN-13 symbol is 37.29 mm wide including its margins; it may be scaled between 80 % and 200 %.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy barcode numbers?
For retail products, yes: stores and marketplaces expect GTINs from GS1. For internal use – inventory, assets, tickets – you can choose your own numbers and use Code 128.
What is a check digit?
The last digit of EAN, UPC and ITF-14 numbers is calculated from the other digits with the GS1 modulo-10 rule, so scanners can detect misreads. Enter the number without it and it is added, or enter the full number to check it.
Which format is best for printing?
SVG keeps the bars perfectly sharp at any size and works with label and design software. PNG works everywhere; choose a larger bar width for high-resolution printers.
Can I make a QR code instead?
Yes. QR codes hold links, text, Wi-Fi details or contact cards and are read by every phone camera – use the QR code generator for those.