How to Make Barcodes for Products & Inventory (UPC, EAN)

▥Free Barcode Generator
Code 128, EAN-13, UPC and more as PNG or SVG.Open tool →

Internal use: make your own

For inventory, asset tags, shipping labels or event tickets, Code 128 is the standard choice – it encodes any letters and numbers. Create them free with the Barcode Generator and download PNG or SVG.

Retail: you need GS1 numbers

To sell in stores or on Amazon, Walmart and most marketplaces, UPC (US) or EAN (international) numbers must be licensed from GS1. Cheap resold codes are often rejected by major retailers.

Printing tips

Use SVG for sharp printing at any size, keep a quiet margin around the code, print black on white, and test with a phone scanner app before printing labels in bulk.

Barcode vs QR code

Barcodes hold a short ID for scanners at tills and warehouses. QR codes hold links and more data for phones.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make a UPC barcode for free?

You can draw one, but the number must be licensed from GS1 for retail.

Which barcode type for inventory?

Code 128.

What file type should I print?

SVG stays sharp at any size.