Free Barcode Generator
Generate free barcodes online — Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 39, EAN-8, and ITF-14. No sign-up, no account, instant SVG and PNG download.
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Six Barcode Formats
Code 128 for general use, EAN-13 and UPC-A for retail products, Code 39 for industrial applications, EAN-8 for compact packaging, and ITF-14 for shipping cases. One generator, all the formats you need.
SVG for Perfect Print Quality
Download barcodes as SVG vector files that scale to any size — from a tiny label to a full shipping box — without pixelation. PNG is also available for digital use and smaller print applications.
Free, No Account, No Expiry
Generate as many barcodes as you need. Everything runs in your browser — no data is sent to our servers. Your barcode values stay private. Download files are yours to keep and use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a barcode and a QR code?
Traditional barcodes (Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 39) are one-dimensional — they encode data in a series of parallel vertical bars and spaces of varying widths. Scanners read a single horizontal line across the bars. QR codes are two-dimensional — they encode data in a grid of squares, which allows them to store far more information (thousands of characters vs. a few dozen) and be scanned from any angle. Barcodes are the standard for retail product identification (your cereal box uses an EAN-13 or UPC-A). QR codes are better suited for URLs, contact information, and any content requiring more than a short ID number.
Which barcode format should I use?
Code 128 is the right choice for most custom applications — internal IDs, event tickets, shipping labels, library books, loyalty cards. It handles any combination of letters, numbers, and symbols and encodes data efficiently. EAN-13 and UPC-A are for retail products sold in stores — EAN-13 is used globally, UPC-A is specific to the United States and Canada. These formats require a registered GS1 company prefix if you intend to sell through major retailers. Code 39 is a legacy industrial format found in warehousing, manufacturing, and defense supply chains. ITF-14 is used for shipping cases and outer packaging in retail distribution.
Do I need a GS1 number to generate a barcode?
Not for internal or custom use. If you are generating barcodes for your own inventory system, event tickets, library management, or any application where you control both the scanner and the database, you can use any number you like with Code 128 or Code 39 — no registration required. However, if you want to sell products through major retailers (grocery stores, pharmacies, Walmart, Amazon) who expect globally unique EAN-13 or UPC-A codes, you will need a GS1 company prefix. The GS1 organization assigns these — see gs1.org for details.
Can I print a barcode generated here for commercial use?
Yes, for internal and custom applications. Barcode symbologies (Code 128, EAN, UPC, Code 39) are open standards with no patent licensing fees for use. You can use generated barcodes on product labels, shipping boxes, event wristbands, restaurant menus, loyalty cards, and any other commercial application. The only exception is GS1-managed product codes (EAN-13, UPC-A) for retail distribution, which require a registered GS1 company prefix — see the question above.
Why does my barcode not scan?
The most common causes: (1) Print size too small — barcodes need clear, readable bars; the minimum bar width in the generated SVG is 2 units, but if printed at very small sizes the bars can become too thin for scanners. Use SVG for printing to avoid resolution loss. (2) Low contrast — the bars need to be significantly darker than the background. Black on white is always safe. (3) No quiet zone — barcodes require blank white space (quiet zone) to the left and right of the bars. Do not crop or place content immediately adjacent to the bars. (4) Wrong scanner for the format — not all scanner apps or hardware read all barcode formats. A basic POS barcode gun reads EAN-13 and Code 128 but may not read ITF-14 or Code 39.
What size should a barcode be when printed?
Code 128 and Code 39 barcodes are typically printed 25–40 mm wide (about 1–1.6 inches) for handheld scanner use. EAN-13 and UPC-A have a nominal size defined by GS1: 100% magnification = 37.29 × 26.26 mm for EAN-13. Most scanners work with magnification between 80% and 200% of nominal. For label printing, test at your target size with the actual scanner hardware before printing a full run. Download the SVG format to preserve sharpness at any print size.