Free Barcode Generator

Barcode generator FAQ

Which barcode type should I use?

Code 128 suits most shipping, inventory and asset labels because it packs letters and digits into a short barcode. Code 39 is an older format some legacy systems still require. Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF) encodes digits only and is common on cartons. UPC-A and EAN-13 are the retail product barcodes. GS1-128 carries GS1 data such as GTIN, lot and expiry dates for supply chain labels. QR Code and Data Matrix are 2D codes that hold URLs or longer text in a small square.

Do these barcodes work with Zebra and other thermal label printers?

Yes. Pick your printer's resolution (203, 300 or 600 dpi) and the PNG is drawn so one image pixel equals one printer dot, which keeps bar widths even. Place the PNG or SVG in your label software, such as BarTender or ZebraDesigner, and print at 100% scale. Print and test-scan before production use.

Are the barcodes free to use?

Yes. The generator is free, needs no account, and you can use the images you create on your own labels and documents. Barcodes are drawn in your browser, so the data you type is not sent to our server.

Can I use this to get a UPC or EAN number for retail?

No. This tool only draws the barcode for a number you already have; we don't issue or sell numbers. UPC and EAN numbers for products sold in retail stores have to be licensed from GS1 (gs1us.org in the United States).

What do bar width, bar height and quiet zone mean?

Bar width is the width of the narrowest bar in printer dots; wider bars are easier to scan but make the barcode longer. Bar height is the height of the bars in millimetres. The quiet zone is the blank margin on each side, measured in bar widths; most scanners need about 10 to read a linear barcode reliably.