About the Barcode Generator
Tezmy's Barcode Generator creates scannable barcodes for products, stock, shipping labels, libraries and events. Choose Code 128 for any text, EAN-13 or UPC-A for retail products, EAN-8 for small packs, Code 39 for industry labels or ITF-14 for cartons. Check digits are calculated for you, or checked if you type them. Adjust the bar width and height, then download a crisp PNG or a vector SVG that prints sharply at any size.
Updated October 2026
How to use the Barcode Generator
- 1Choose the barcode type.
- 2Type the value to encode.
- 3Adjust bar width, height and label if needed.
- 4Download as PNG or SVG, and test-scan before printing.
Choosing a barcode type
- Code 128: any letters and numbers. Great for stock labels, shipping and internal use.
- EAN-13: the standard 13-digit barcode on retail products in most of the world.
- UPC-A: the 12-digit retail barcode used in the USA and Canada.
- EAN-8: a short version for small packs where EAN-13 won't fit.
- Code 39: older industrial and government labels; letters, numbers and a few symbols.
- ITF-14: printed on outer boxes and cartons of products.
Selling in shops? You need official numbers
Retailers and marketplaces like Amazon require EAN or UPC numbers issued by GS1, the organisation that manages product barcodes worldwide. You can draw any number here, but for products sold in stores, buy your number range from GS1 first, then use this tool to create the barcode images.
Printing tips
- Download the SVG for print: it stays sharp at any size.
- Keep dark bars on a light background with a clear white margin on both sides.
- Don't shrink retail barcodes too much; scanners need enough bar width.
- Test with a barcode scanner app on your phone before printing labels in bulk.
Barcodes vs QR codes
Barcodes hold a short number or code and are read by shop scanners. QR codes hold much more, like links, Wi-Fi details or text, and are made for phone cameras. For links and contact details, use the QR Code Generator instead. Need a number for the barcode? Make one with the Random Number Generator, and for long unique codes use the UUID Generator.
Features
- Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, EAN-8, Code 39, ITF-14
- Automatic check digits
- Adjustable size
- Optional human-readable text
- PNG and print-quality SVG
- Made in your browser
Frequently asked questions
Which barcode type should I use?
For products sold in shops, use EAN-13 (worldwide) or UPC-A (US and Canada). For internal labels, shipping and inventory, Code 128 is the most flexible and compact.
Can I make my own EAN or UPC numbers?
You can make barcodes for testing or internal use, but products sold in retail need official numbers from GS1, the organisation that issues them.
What is a check digit?
The last digit of EAN, UPC and ITF codes, calculated from the others so scanners can detect mistakes. Type the number without it and we'll add it.
PNG or SVG?
SVG is a vector file that stays perfectly sharp at any size, which is best for printing. PNG is easy to use in documents and online.
Why won't my barcode scan?
Make it bigger, keep a clear white margin around it, print with good contrast, and avoid stretching it. Very thin bars can be hard for cheap scanners.
Is the barcode generator free?
Yes, free with no sign-up or watermark, for as many barcodes as you need.
Can I make barcodes for my small business inventory?
Yes. Code 128 is ideal for your own stock codes and labels. Print them on sticker sheets and scan them with any barcode scanner.
Can I scan the barcode with my phone?
Yes, many free scanner apps and some phone cameras read Code 128, EAN and UPC barcodes.
What size should I print a barcode?
For retail EAN-13, around 37 × 26 mm is the standard size; you can go a little smaller or larger. Always test-scan before printing in bulk.