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Barcode Generator

Generate 1D barcodes for labels, inventory, and packaging. Supports Code128, EAN-13, UPC-A, Code39, Code93, Codabar, ITF-14, and more.

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About this tool

A barcode generator turns numbers and text into machine-readable 1D barcodes for labels, product packaging, inventory tags, library cards, and asset tracking. This tool supports the most common symbologies — Code128 (the most versatile, supports alphanumeric), EAN-13 and UPC-A (retail products), Code39 (logistics), Codabar (blood banks, FedEx airbills), ITF-14 (shipping cartons), and more.

Example: enter 5901234123457 and pick EAN-13 to generate a retail product barcode. Enter ABC-12345 with Code128 for a warehouse label. The preview updates live as you type — tweak the width, height, and colors to match your label printer requirements.

FAQ

What is the difference between Code128 and Code39?

Code128 is denser and supports the full ASCII character set (including lowercase), making it the most popular general-purpose barcode. Code39 is older, supports only uppercase letters, digits, and a few symbols, but is still widely used in logistics, government, and automotive industries. Code128 produces shorter bars for the same data.

Do I need a check digit for EAN-13 or UPC-A?

JsBarcode automatically calculates and appends the check digit for EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, and UPC-E. Simply enter the base digits (12 for EAN-13 without the check digit, or all 13 including it) — the library handles validation.

Why does my barcode not scan?

Common causes: low contrast between bars and background (use dark bars on white), too-small width (increase the Width slider), or the content includes characters not supported by the selected symbology (e.g., letters in EAN-13 or UPC-A). Also ensure your scanner is configured for that barcode type.

Can I use these barcodes for commercial products?

EAN-13 and UPC-A require a GS1 company prefix assigned to your business for retail sale. Code128 and Code39 are open symbologies — you can use them internally for inventory, asset tags, and labels without a license. For EAN/UPC, you must purchase a valid prefix from GS1 to guarantee uniqueness in the global supply chain.

What about QR codes?

1D barcodes like Code128 and EAN-13 store data in parallel lines — great for product labels and shipping. For URLs, WiFi credentials, contact cards, and other 2D data, use the <a href="/qr-generator" class="text-accent hover:underline">QR Code Generator</a>. QR codes hold much more data and are scannable by any smartphone camera.

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