Resources
Use this guide to choose the right barcode format before you generate, download, or save barcodes in Barcode Safe.
The five formats below cover the most common product, packaging, logistics, and workflow labelling needs. Pick the one that matches your use case.
Use when: Retail products sold in stores or online.
The standard format for retail in Europe and internationally. Required by most retailers and point-of-sale systems. If your products need a scannable barcode at the checkout, this is the format to use. EAN-13 numbers must be obtained from GS1 or a licensed number provider.
Use when: Retail products sold in North American markets.
The North American equivalent of EAN-13. Common in the United States and Canada. Many retailers in these markets require UPC-A on product labels. Like EAN-13, UPC numbers should be obtained from GS1.
Use when: Internal labels, logistics, and high-density alphanumeric data.
A flexible, high-density linear barcode that encodes any combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Widely used in shipping, warehousing, and manufacturing workflows where EAN or UPC numbers are not required.
Use when: Simple asset labels, inventory tags, and internal tracking.
An older, widely supported format that encodes capital letters and numbers. Easier to read and print at larger sizes. A practical choice for asset management, tool tracking, and environments where simplicity matters more than density. Use the dedicated Code 39 generator for a fixed Code 39 workflow. Open the Code 39 barcode generator.
Use when: URLs, references, and compact data accessible by mobile devices.
A 2D format that can store significantly more data than a linear barcode. Ideal for linking to web pages, product pages, or documents. Readable by any modern smartphone camera without a dedicated scanner.
