Code 128 vs EAN-13: Choosing a Barcode Format

Compare six supported barcode formats, input lengths, check digits and print checks. Understand the difference between an image and an assigned product number.

A barcode image is not an assigned product number

This tool draws the number you provide. It does not allocate or register official product numbers or establish ownership. Confirm numbering and marketplace requirements with the applicable organization or platform. Internal inventory labels may use your own identifiers.

Code 128 for internal labels

Code 128 supports printable ASCII text such as MS20260001. It does not encode arbitrary Chinese characters. Put descriptive text outside the barcode or use a text QR code. Your scanner and business software must support the chosen format.

EAN-13, EAN-8 and UPC-A lengths

EAN-13 accepts 13 digits or 12 plus an automatically calculated check digit. EAN-8 accepts 8 or 7, and UPC-A accepts 12 or 11. Complete numbers are validated rather than silently corrected. Sample numbers are for practice, not numbers assigned to your products.

Code 39 and ITF-14

Code 39 supports uppercase letters, digits and selected symbols. ITF-14 accepts 14 digits or 13 plus a check digit. Production labels may require specific dimensions, bearer bars and layouts; a generic export is not a compliance certification.

Generate and export

Choose a format, try the sample, then enter your real data. Adjust height, bar width, color and value text before exporting PNG, JPG or SVG. Use the bulk tool for multiple entries.

Test the actual printed label

Keep dark bars, a light background and clear side margins. Avoid stretching or excessive reduction. Test at final size with your production scanner and software; phone scanning alone is not a production acceptance test.