Our barcode generator supports 8 formats across 1D and 2D categories. Pick a format, enter your data, and download. Want to understand each format in detail? See our complete barcode types guide.
Generate Code 128, UPC-A, EAN-13, EAN-8, Code 39, and ITF-14 barcodes. Each format has built-in validation so you cannot create an invalid barcode. Check digits are calculated automatically where required. The output follows official symbology specifications and is identical to what you would get from commercial barcode software.
Create Data Matrix and PDF417 barcodes for compact data encoding. Data Matrix is the standard for electronics, healthcare, and aerospace component marking. PDF417 is used on government IDs, driver's licenses, and boarding passes. Both formats hold significantly more data than 1D barcodes.
Change bar color, background color, or both using the color picker in the toolbar. Match your brand colors, create barcodes that blend into your packaging design, or stick with the default black on white. For reliable scanning, keep high contrast between bars and background.
Download as PNG for screens and digital use, or SVG for print. SVG files are vector graphics that scale to any size without losing sharpness, making them the right choice for product labels, packaging, signage, and anything that gets physically printed. You can also copy the barcode directly to your clipboard.
Not sure which barcode format to use?
Our barcode types guide covers every format with comparison tables, use cases, and a decision guide to help you pick the right one.
A barcode is a machine readable representation of data. The data is encoded as a pattern of parallel bars (dark lines) and spaces (light gaps) of varying widths. When a scanner reads a barcode, it shines a light across the bars and measures the reflections. Dark bars absorb the light while light spaces reflect it. The scanner converts these patterns of reflection into electrical signals, which are decoded back into the original text or number.
Different barcode formats use different encoding schemes. In Code 128, for example, each character is represented by a specific combination of three bars and three spaces within a fixed width module. UPC-A uses a similar principle but with a fixed 12 digit structure optimized for retail scanning speed.
2D barcodes like Data Matrix and PDF417 store data in two dimensions, allowing them to hold much more information in a smaller space. They use a grid of dark and light squares (called modules) and include built-in error correction so they can still be read even if partially damaged.
Barcode standards exist so that any scanner, anywhere in the world, can read any barcode of the same format. The organization responsible for maintaining these standards is GS1 , a global nonprofit with offices in over 100 countries.
GS1 manages the numbering systems behind UPC and EAN barcodes. When a company wants to sell products at retail, they apply for a GS1 company prefix. This prefix becomes the first part of every UPC or EAN barcode that company creates, ensuring no two products in the world share the same number.
Our barcode generator creates the visual barcode image from whatever data you provide. It does not assign or validate GS1 numbers. If you need a unique product identification number for retail, visit gs1.org/standards/get-barcodes to get started.
From small Etsy sellers to Fortune 500 warehouses, barcodes are essential tools across every industry. Here is how different businesses use our free barcode maker.
Generate UPC-A barcodes for products sold in stores, on Amazon, or on Shopify. Every physical product sold at retail needs a scannable barcode on its packaging. Small businesses use our free UPC barcode generator to create labels without expensive software.
Create Code 128 or Code 39 barcodes for tracking stock, parts, and equipment. Print labels and scan them with any handheld scanner. The go-to free tool for warehouse managers labeling parts and bins.
Generate ITF-14 barcodes for shipping cartons or Code 128 for package tracking numbers. Scannable shipping labels keep your supply chain organized from warehouse to doorstep.
Libraries, schools, and IT departments use Code 128 or Code 39 barcodes to tag books, computers, and equipment. Scan items in and out with any handheld scanner to track ownership and location.
Hospitals use Data Matrix barcodes on patient wristbands, medication packaging, and lab samples. Scanning prevents mix-ups and improves patient safety. The FDA requires unique device identification (UDI) barcodes on all medical devices.
Track parts, assemblies, and finished goods through the production line with Code 128 or Data Matrix barcodes. Each barcode links a physical item to your manufacturing execution system for full traceability.
Everything you need to know about our free barcode generator.