UPC-A
A 12-digit retail identifier commonly used in North America.
Open UPC-A generator →Barcode guide
Barcode Types Explained
Different barcode formats solve different identification and data-capture problems. The right choice depends on the identifier you have, where the barcode will be used, and what your scanner or business system expects.
EAN-13
A 13-digit retail identifier used widely outside North America and compatible with many global retail systems.
Open EAN-13 generator →EAN-8
A shorter retail format designed for products where packaging space is limited.
Open EAN-8 generator →UPC-E
A compressed UPC format for eligible identifiers where a smaller symbol is useful.
Open UPC-E generator →Code 128
A high-density linear barcode used for logistics, shipping, inventory, and general business data.
Open Code 128 generator →Code 39
A widely supported alphanumeric barcode used in industrial and operational applications.
Open Code 39 generator →ITF-14
A 14-digit logistics barcode commonly used for outer cartons and trade units.
Open ITF-14 generator →ISBN
Book identifiers represented as Bookland EAN-13 barcodes for retail and library workflows.
Open ISBN generator →Which barcode should you use?
For retail product identifiers, UPC-A and EAN-13 are the most important choices to understand. For shipping, inventory, and operational data, Code 128 is often more appropriate. ITF-14 is designed around trade-unit logistics, while Code 39 remains common in industrial environments. An ISBN should be treated as a book identifier first, then represented using its appropriate barcode format.
Barcode type vs barcode number
The symbology determines how data is represented visually. The number or text encoded inside it is the data. A valid identifier does not automatically mean every barcode symbology is interchangeable, so use the format required by the receiving retailer, carrier, inventory system, or specification.
Need to make one?
Use the free Barcode Generator when you need a general barcode workflow, or choose a format-specific generator above.