Barcode Generator
Free to use. Runs in your browser: your files and text are not uploaded.
Make a barcode from a number or text and download it as a picture. Seven common barcode types are supported.
How to use it
- Choose the barcode type. An example value is filled in.
- Type your own value and press Create barcode. After that, the barcode follows what you type.
- Press the download button to save a PNG.
The barcode types
| Type | Holds | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Code 128 | Letters, numbers, symbols | Shipping labels, stock, tickets |
| EAN-13 | 13 digits | Retail products worldwide |
| UPC-A | 12 digits | Retail products in the US and Canada |
| EAN-8 | 8 digits | Small retail packs |
| Code 39 | Capitals, numbers, a few symbols | Older industrial and ID systems |
| ITF-14 | 14 digits | Cartons and outer cases |
| Codabar | Numbers and a few symbols | Libraries, blood banks |
Printing tips
- Keep the white space on both sides of the bars. Scanners need this “quiet zone”.
- Print black bars on a white background.
- Do not stretch the picture sideways. Changing the bar widths makes it unreadable.
- Test the printed barcode with a scanner or a phone app.
Limits
- This tool draws barcodes. It does not issue or register product numbers.
- The picture is a PNG. For very large print sizes, ask your printer whether they need a vector file.
- Two-dimensional codes are separate. For those, use the QR Code Generator.
Frequently asked questions
Which barcode type should I use?
For your own stock, asset tags or tickets, use Code 128: it holds letters and numbers and is compact. For products sold in shops, retailers require EAN-13 or UPC-A with a number issued to your company.
Can I make up my own EAN or UPC number for a product?
The barcode will print, but shops and marketplaces expect numbers licensed from GS1, the organisation that manages them. A made-up number may clash with another company's product.
What is a check digit?
The last digit of an EAN or UPC number, worked out from the other digits. Scanners use it to catch misreads. If you leave it off, this tool adds it. If you type a wrong one, the barcode is rejected.