Which barcode type should I use?

EAN-13 for products sold in shops or on marketplaces like Amazon or Daraz, using a number licensed from GS1. Code 128 for everything else: stock codes, order numbers, asset tags and shipping labels.

What is the EAN-13 check digit?

The 13th digit, calculated from the first 12 so scanners can catch misreads. Enter 12 digits and the generator adds it; enter 13 and it checks yours.

Can I make up my own EAN numbers?

Not for selling in shops. A made-up number can belong to someone else's product. Buy numbers from GS1 in your country. For internal use, use Code 128 instead.

How should I print barcodes?

Black bars on a white background, at 100% size or larger, with the white margin either side left clear. Test a printed label with your scanner or phone before printing many.

Free tool

Make a scannable barcode in seconds

Type a product number or a stock code. Get an EAN-13 barcode for retail products, with the check digit worked out, or a Code 128 barcode for anything else. Download it as PNG or SVG.

What you get

EAN-13 with automatic check digit
Code 128 for SKUs, orders and labels
Checked with barcode-reading software

Want a code that opens a link? Use the QR code generator.

Barcode type

Text or number

Bar heightShow the number under the bars

Code 128 holds letters, numbers and symbols, and is read by any USB or phone barcode scanner. Good for stock codes, order numbers and shipping labels.

Preview

Print it black on white at 100% size, and leave the white margin either side: scanners need it. Test with your scanner or phone before printing labels in bulk. Need a code that opens a link instead? Use the QR code generator. Nothing you type is uploaded.

Barcodes, briefly

Retail barcodes need a licensed number. Your own stock does not.

Shops and marketplaces only accept EAN or UPC numbers licensed from GS1, so each product is unique worldwide. For your own shelves, stock counts, orders and shipping labels, Code 128 with your own codes is all you need.

Which barcode type should I use?: EAN-13 for products sold in shops or on marketplaces like Amazon or Daraz, using a number licensed from GS1. Code 128 for everything else: stock codes, order numbers, asset tags and shipping labels.
What is the EAN-13 check digit?: The 13th digit, calculated from the first 12 so scanners can catch misreads. Enter 12 digits and the generator adds it; enter 13 and it checks yours.
Can I make up my own EAN numbers?: Not for selling in shops. A made-up number can belong to someone else's product. Buy numbers from GS1 in your country. For internal use, use Code 128 instead.
How should I print barcodes?: Black bars on a white background, at 100% size or larger, with the white margin either side left clear. Test a printed label with your scanner or phone before printing many.
Selling online?: Make a matching product listing and check your prices with the profit margin calculator, then share it with a QR code.

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