This EAN-13 barcode generator makes an EAN-13 barcode from 12 digits and adds the 13th, the check digit, or checks a full 13-digit number and shows the correct last digit if it is wrong. Switch to EAN-8 for small packs. Download the barcode as PNG or SVG, free and with no sign-up.
How to make an EAN-13 barcode
- Choose EAN-13, or EAN-8 for a small pack.
- Type 12 digits (7 for EAN-8) and the check digit is added, or type the full number to check it.
- Download the PNG or SVG file and place it on your packaging.
What is an EAN-13 barcode?
EAN-13 is the 13-digit retail barcode used on products in most countries outside North America. The number it carries is a GTIN-13: a GS1 company prefix, an item reference and a check digit. The first digits are the GS1 prefix of the GS1 office that issued the number; they do not show where the product was made.
EAN-8 is the short form for packs too small for EAN-13. It carries a GTIN-8 of 8 digits. In the United States and Canada the same products use UPC-A; see the UPC barcode generator.
EAN-13 barcode size
GS1 sets a standard (100%) size and allows printing from 80% to 200% of it.
| Size | EAN-13 width incl. margins | EAN-8 width incl. margins |
|---|---|---|
| 100% (standard) | 37.29 mm | 26.73 mm |
| 200% (largest) | 74.58 mm | 53.46 mm |
At 100% an EAN-13 is 25.93 mm high and an EAN-8 is 21.31 mm high, and the narrowest bar is 0.33 mm wide. Keep the blank margins in the downloaded file; they are part of the width above.
EAN-13 vs UPC-A
Both are GS1 retail barcodes and modern checkout scanners read both. A UPC-A has 12 digits; the same number with a 0 in front is a valid EAN-13. Books use EAN-13 numbers that start with 978 or 979; see the ISBN barcode generator.
Where to get an EAN number
EAN numbers come from the GS1 office in your country, which licenses a company prefix. This generator draws the barcode for a number you already have; it does not issue numbers, but it checks the last digit of every number you type.
Is it private?
Yes. The barcode is drawn in your browser and the number is not sent to our server.
Tips for EAN-13 barcodes
- Do not print smaller than 80% of the standard size.
- Keep the margins on both sides of the bars.
- Print black bars on white; avoid red or light bars.
- Do not cut the bars shorter to fit a label.
- Scan a test print before you order packaging.
Related tools
Frequently asked questions
Do I type 12 or 13 digits?
Either. With 12 digits the check digit is added; with 13 digits it is checked.
Does the first digit show the country of origin?
No. The prefix shows which GS1 office issued the company prefix, not where the product was made.
When should I use EAN-8?
Only when the pack is too small for an EAN-13. EAN-8 numbers are issued separately by GS1.
Can I make an EAN-13 with a price add-on?
Not yet. The 2- and 5-digit add-on codes are planned.
Is EAN-13 the same as GTIN-13?
Yes. GTIN-13 is the number; EAN-13 is the barcode that carries it.