Barcode Generator

One-dimensional barcodes encode data in the widths and spacings of parallel lines. A scanner reads light and dark transitions to decode the symbol. Different symbologies define different encoding rules — Code 128 uses variable-width bars to encode full ASCII, while EAN-13 uses fixed-width patterns for 13-digit product identifiers. The check digit at the end validates the scan. Unlike QR codes that store data in two dimensions, 1D barcodes hold less information but are universally supported by every retail scanner, warehouse system, and library checkout. Need to scan an existing barcode from an image? Use the Barcode Scanner.

EAN-13 is the global standard for product identification — 13 digits where the first 2-3 identify the country, the next digits identify the manufacturer and product, and the last digit is a check digit. UPC-A is the North American variant with 12 digits. Every UPC-A code can be represented as an EAN-13 by adding a leading zero. If you sell internationally, use EAN-13. If you only sell in North America, UPC-A is sufficient. Both are scanned by the same retail scanners. For analyzing product images and their metadata, try the EXIF Checker or Text Scanner (OCR).

Code 128 is the most versatile linear barcode — it encodes the full ASCII character set (letters, digits, symbols) with variable length and high density. It is the default choice for shipping labels, inventory tracking, and internal asset management. Code 39, also known as Alpha39 or Code 3 of 9, is simpler — uppercase letters, digits, and a few special characters — but is widely used in automotive, defense (CAGE codes), and healthcare (HIBC). ITF-14 wraps 14 digits in thick-thin bar pairs specifically for outer cartons and cases. For two-dimensional codes that store more data, see the QR Code Generator.

For barcodes to scan reliably, ensure sufficient contrast (black on white is optimal), maintain quiet zones (blank space) on both sides of the barcode, and print at the recommended minimum height for the symbology. Use SVG export for print — it scales without quality loss at any DPI. Avoid stretching or compressing the barcode horizontally, as this changes bar widths and breaks scanning. For thermal label printers, use at least 2x scale. To check whether a label image meets print quality standards, use the Print Readiness Scanner or the Quality Analyzer.