Barcode Generator

Create barcodes in multiple formats including Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, and more. Generate scannable codes for products and inventory.

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Barcode Format Guide

Code 128

Versatile format that can encode any ASCII character. Best for general use.

Code 39

Alphanumeric (A-Z, 0-9, and some symbols). Common in manufacturing.

EAN-13

13-digit code used on retail products worldwide (European Article Number).

UPC-A

12-digit code used on retail products in North America.

ITF-14

14-digit code used for shipping containers and cartons.

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How to Use Barcode Generator

  1. Enter the data to encode
  2. Select barcode format
  3. Customize size and colors
  4. Download the barcode image
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About Barcode Generator

Barcodes encode data in visual patterns that scanners read instantly. From retail products to warehouse inventory, barcodes automate identification and tracking. Our generator creates industry-standard barcodes in multiple formats for any application.

Supported Barcode Formats

Generate barcodes in standard formats:

  • Code 128: High-density alphanumeric encoding, industry standard
  • EAN-13: European Article Number for retail products
  • UPC-A: Universal Product Code for North American retail
  • Code 39: Alphanumeric, common in non-retail applications
  • ITF-14: For shipping containers and cartons

Choosing the Right Format

Retail products: EAN-13 (international) or UPC-A (North America). Internal inventory: Code 128 for flexibility. Shipping: ITF-14 for carton marking. Simple numeric: Code 39 for basic applications.

Quality Requirements

Scannable barcodes need sufficient size, contrast, and quiet zones (blank space around the code). Our generator creates properly sized barcodes with appropriate margins. Download high-resolution versions for print to ensure reliable scanning.

Implementation Tips

Print barcodes at minimum 80% scale for reliable scanning. Ensure adequate contrast (black on white is ideal). Test with actual scanners before production printing. Keep quiet zones free of text or graphics.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of barcodes can I generate?
We support all major barcode formats: Code 128 (general purpose), Code 39 (alphanumeric), EAN-13 and EAN-8 (retail products in Europe), UPC-A and UPC-E (retail products in North America), ITF-14 (shipping containers), and various 2D codes including DataMatrix. Each format has specific use cases and capacity.
What is the difference between 1D and 2D barcodes?
1D barcodes (like UPC, Code 128) use parallel lines of varying widths and store data horizontally - typically 20-25 characters. 2D barcodes (like QR codes, DataMatrix) use patterns of squares and can store thousands of characters in less space. 1D barcodes are simpler and faster to scan; 2D store more data.
Which barcode type should I use for my product?
For retail products sold in stores, use UPC-A (North America) or EAN-13 (international) - these require registration with GS1. For internal inventory, Code 128 is versatile and compact. For shipping boxes, use ITF-14. For small items, use EAN-8 or Code 128. For encoding URLs or lots of data, use QR codes.
How do I get a valid barcode number for retail products?
Legitimate UPC/EAN barcodes for retail require purchasing a GS1 company prefix (starting around $250/year) which gives you a range of numbers. Each product needs a unique number within your prefix. Our generator creates the barcode image from numbers you provide - it doesn't assign or validate GS1 numbers.
What size should I print my barcode?
For retail UPC/EAN barcodes, the standard size is 37.29mm × 25.93mm. Minimum readable size is about 80% of standard. Always include quiet zones (white space) on sides - typically 9 times the narrowest bar width. Test printed barcodes with a scanner before mass production.
Can I customize barcode colors?
Yes, but be cautious: barcodes work best with dark bars on light backgrounds. Black on white is most reliable. Avoid red bars (scanners use red lasers), light colors, or low contrast combinations. Our tool warns you if your color choices may cause scanning issues.