How to make a barcode
- Choose the barcode Type. Use EAN-13 or UPC-A for retail product numbers, and Code 128 for anything else.
- Type what the barcode should hold. For EAN and UPC, enter the number without its last digit and the check digit is added for you.
- Download the barcode as PNG for documents and labels, or SVG for print, where it stays sharp at any size.
Barcode types at a glance
| Type | Holds | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Code 128 | Letters, numbers, symbols | Shipping labels, stock and asset tags, 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 warehouse, ID badge and industry systems |
Code 128 packs two digits into each symbol when it meets a long run of numbers, so mixed codes such as SKU-000123 stay short. The tool switches between letters and digits automatically.
Printing barcodes that scan
- Keep the quiet zone. The white space on each side is part of the barcode. Don’t crop it or print text right up against the bars.
- Size it sensibly. Retail barcodes are usually printed at around 3.7 cm wide or more. Going much smaller makes the thin bars hard for scanners to separate.
- Use SVG for print. It stays sharp at any size. If you use PNG, pick a large size and don’t stretch it unevenly.
- Test before printing a batch. Scan one printed label with a phone barcode app or your scanner first.