1D Linear barcodes
Barcode generator
Make a crisp barcode for a product label, a shipping carton, an asset tag or a badge. Check digits are calculated or verified for you, and the SVG stays sharp at any print size.
1Type and value
Which barcode should I use?
- Code 128: letters, digits and symbols (any ASCII). Compact and dense; the usual choice for shipping labels, warehouse bins and asset tags. The encoder switches between its three code sets to keep the barcode short.
- EAN-13 / UPC-A: retail product numbers (GTIN-13 and GTIN-12). Enter 12 or 11 digits to have the check digit calculated, or the full number to have it verified. Real product numbers come from GS1; do not invent them for goods you sell in shops.
- Code 39: capitals, digits and
- . $ / + %and space. Wide but tolerant, still common on ID badges and in industry. - ITF-14: the 14-digit GTIN printed on outer cartons, with a bearer bar frame that protects it on corrugated board.
For print, use SVG or a PNG with a bar width of 2 px or more, and keep the light margin on both sides: scanners need it to find where the barcode starts.
Frequently asked questions
What is a check digit?
The last digit of an EAN, UPC or ITF-14 number, calculated from the others with the GS1 mod-10 rule. Scanners recompute it to catch misreads, so a wrong check digit makes the barcode unreadable.
Why will my barcode not scan?
Keep the light margin on both sides, use dark bars on a light background, and do not shrink or stretch the image unevenly. Very narrow bars blur on cheap printers, so increase the bar width rather than scaling up a small PNG.
Can I use these barcodes on products in shops?
The barcode itself, yes, but the number must be one registered to your company by GS1. This tool draws the barcode; it does not issue numbers.