Barcode Generator & Reader

Generate barcodes from text or decode barcodes from images. Supports common barcode formats for business, retail, and personal use.

Generate Barcode
Read Barcode

Barcode Tools

Generate and read traditional barcodes (the striped kind, not QR codes). Supports common formats like Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, and UPC-A used in retail, shipping, and inventory systems.

Each format has different capacities and use cases. Code 128 is versatile, EAN-13 is for international products, UPC-A is North American retail standard.

Common Formats

  • EAN-13: International product codes
  • UPC-A: North American retail
  • Code 128: General purpose, alphanumeric
  • Code 39: Industrial, alphanumeric

Understanding Barcode Types

Different barcode formats serve different purposes. EAN-13 is used on retail products worldwide (13 digits). UPC-A is the US equivalent (12 digits). Code 128 supports all ASCII characters and is used in logistics. Code 39 is common in automotive and defense. ITF (Interleaved 2 of 5) is used on packaging and cartons.

1D barcodes (like those above) encode data horizontally. 2D codes like QR codes and Data Matrix encode data in both dimensions, storing much more information. The choice depends on data length, scanning environment, and industry standards. Retail generally uses EAN/UPC, while logistics prefers Code 128 or GS1-128.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which barcode type should I use?

For retail products: EAN-13 (international) or UPC-A (US). For general text or internal use: Code 128. For automotive: Code 39. For cartons/logistics: ITF. For lots of data: consider QR codes instead. Match your industry's standard for compatibility.

Why won't my barcode scan?

Common issues: too small (minimum sizes vary by type), poor contrast (black on white works best), printing quality issues, or damage. EAN-13 requires exactly 13 digits. Ensure the barcode type matches what your scanner expects. Test on multiple devices.

What's the difference between barcodes and QR codes?

Traditional barcodes are 1-dimensional (encode data in width) and store limited data (8-25 characters typically). QR codes are 2-dimensional and can store thousands of characters plus URLs, error correction, and more. Use barcodes for simple identification, QR for rich data or links.

How do I get an official product barcode?

Official retail barcodes require a GS1 Company Prefix. Join GS1 (the global barcode standards organization) in your country to receive a prefix, then assign unique numbers to each product. This ensures worldwide uniqueness and compatibility with all retail systems.

Can I create barcodes for internal use without GS1?

Yes, absolutely for internal use like asset tracking or inventory. Use Code 128 or Code 39 with your own numbering scheme. Just don't use fake EAN/UPC numbers'they may conflict with real products. For purely internal systems, any unique identifier works.