Barcode Generator
barcode• Create barcodes in many formats: Code128, EAN-13, UPC, and more. • Adjust bar width, height, and colors; download as PNG or SVG.
Everything is processed in your browser and never sent to a server.
Code 128 · any text
How barcodes are used
A barcode turns numbers or letters into bars of differing width so a scanner can read them. A machine reads it instantly and without error, which is why barcodes are used wherever a mistake costs money — stock control, asset tags, shipping labels.
The format depends on the job. EAN-13 on retail packaging holds exactly 13 digits and the US UPC holds 12, while CODE128 takes letters, digits and symbols at any length, which suits internal reference numbers. If the digit count does not match, nothing is generated — so check the format first.
When printing, size and margins decide whether it scans. Shrink it too far and the bars merge; drop the quiet zone on either side and the scanner cannot find the start. The image is generated in your browser and your input is never sent to a server.
Frequently asked questions
How many digits does each barcode format need?
Each format has its own rule. Enter 12 digits for EAN-13, 7 for EAN-8, 11 for UPC-A and 13 for ITF-14, and the final check digit is added for you. If you already hold a complete number, enter all 13, 8, 12 or 14 digits as they are.
Do I have to work out the check digit myself?
No. Type the leading digits and the correct check digit is calculated and appended automatically. If you paste a complete number and get an error, the last digit is wrong: remove it, enter the rest, and compare the digit the tool adds with the one you had.
Can I put a barcode made here on a product I sell?
Not for retail distribution. Retail EAN and UPC numbers require a company prefix issued by GS1, which is what makes them unique worldwide. A number you invent only looks the part and may clash with someone else’s product. For internal stock or asset labels it is perfectly fine.
Which format should I choose?
Code 128 handles letters, digits and symbols, so it suits internal reference numbers. Code 39 fits older equipment that expects uppercase and digits only. Retail packaging uses EAN-13, the US uses UPC-A, and outer shipping cases use ITF-14. Pharmacode is available for medicine packaging.
It printed fine but the scanner will not read it.
Usually size and margins. Set the margin to 10 or more so there is a clear quiet zone on both sides, and raise the bar width to 2 or above. Downloading the SVG rather than the PNG also helps, since the bars stay crisp at any print size.
Can I change the barcode colours?
Keep the bars dark and the background light. Scanners work from the difference in reflected light, so pale bars or inverted colours often fail. Red-toned bars in particular tend to disappear to a scanner, so black bars on white remain the safe default.