Free Online Barcode Generator

What is a Barcode?

A barcode is a machine-readable representation of data encoded as a visual pattern — either parallel lines (1D barcodes) or a 2D matrix of dots and squares (like QR codes). Invented in the 1950s and widely adopted in retail by the 1970s, barcodes are now embedded in almost every product, shipment, and document worldwide.

Our free barcode generator supports 9 of the most common barcode symbologies, from the ubiquitous EAN-13 found on supermarket shelves to Code 128 used in shipping logistics and QR codes for digital content.

How to Generate a Barcode Online

1. Select your barcode type — Use the type selector to choose the format that matches your use case (EAN-13 for retail, Code 128 for shipping, QR for URLs).
2. Enter your data — Type or paste the content you want to encode. For numeric barcode types like EAN-13, the check digit is calculated automatically.
3. Customize the appearance — Adjust bar width, height, color, margins, and whether to display the human-readable text below the barcode.
4. Download — Click PNG for a ready-to-use image, or SVG for a vector file that prints at any resolution.

Barcode Types: Which One Do You Need?

Code 128 — Best for General Use

Code 128 is the most versatile 1D barcode symbology, capable of encoding all 128 ASCII characters with extremely high data density. It's the standard choice for shipping labels (FedEx, UPS, USPS), inventory management systems, and GS1-128 logistics labels. Use Code 128 when you need to encode alphanumeric data with no length restrictions.

EAN-13 — International Retail Standard

EAN-13 (European Article Number) is the global standard for identifying consumer products at point of sale. Used on virtually every retail product sold outside North America — and increasingly accepted worldwide. An EAN-13 barcode encodes a 13-digit number: a 2-3 digit country prefix assigned by GS1, a company prefix, a product reference, and a check digit (calculated automatically by our generator).

UPC-A — North American Retail

UPC-A (Universal Product Code) is the barcode used on retail products sold in the United States and Canada. Functionally equivalent to EAN-13 with a leading zero — most modern scanners read both interchangeably. A UPC-A barcode encodes 12 digits. To sell products at major US retailers (Amazon, Walmart, Target), you need a GS1 Company Prefix with a registered UPC.

QR Code — Digital Content and URLs

QR codes store far more data than 1D barcodes and can encode URLs, plain text, contact cards, WiFi credentials, app download links, and more. Every modern smartphone can scan a QR code without a dedicated app. QR codes include built-in error correction, making them readable even when partially damaged.

ITF-14 — Shipping Cartons

ITF-14 (Interleaved 2 of 5, 14 digits) is used on outer shipping cartons and pallets in the supply chain. It encodes a GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) and is designed to be readable by omnidirectional scanners even when printed on corrugated cardboard. The thick bars and characteristic "bearer bars" make it robust for warehouse environments.

PNG vs SVG: Which Format to Download?

PNG is best for digital use — embedding in websites, email, documents, and spreadsheets. Our PNG export renders at 2× resolution for sharp display on high-DPI screens.

SVG is a vector format that scales to any size without quality loss — perfect for print, packaging design, and any situation where you need the barcode at different sizes. Most print services prefer SVG or PDF for production use.

Barcode Check Digits Explained

Most barcode standards include a check digit — the last digit calculated from the preceding digits using a specific algorithm. Check digits allow scanners to verify the barcode was read correctly. Our generator calculates check digits automatically:

• Enter 12 digits for EAN-13 (the 13th is auto-calculated)
• Enter 11 digits for UPC-A (the 12th is auto-calculated)
• Enter 13 digits for ITF-14 (the 14th is auto-calculated)
• Enter an ISBN-10 or first 12 digits of ISBN-13

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this barcode generator free?

Yes. Single barcode generation is always free with no watermarks, no limits, and no account required. Download as PNG or SVG instantly.

What formats can I download?

PNG (suitable for digital use) and SVG (vector, scales to any size without quality loss). PDF export is also available — click the PDF button after generating your barcode.

Can I use generated barcodes commercially?

Yes. The barcode image itself is yours to use for any purpose. However, for retail barcodes (EAN-13, UPC-A) used to identify products in stores, you need to purchase a valid GS1 Company Prefix from your national GS1 organization (gs1.org). The barcode number must be officially registered to your product.

Do I need special software to scan the barcodes?

No — for QR codes, any smartphone camera works. For 1D barcodes (EAN, UPC, Code 128), use a barcode scanner app or a dedicated hardware scanner. You can also use our free online barcode scanner to verify your generated codes.

How do I generate barcodes in bulk?

Our Bulk Barcode Generator accepts a CSV file with up to 500 rows and generates a ZIP archive of barcode images. This is a premium feature available for a one-time purchase.