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Using Utiluse’s built-in reader: EAN, UPC, Code 128, Code 39 and ITF.
Paste a list of codes, one per line, and get every barcode at once: a ZIP of PNG files named after each code, or a PDF sheet of labels on A4 or Letter ready to print. Invalid lines are flagged so you can fix them before printing.
How to use
- Choose a format and type the value. The barcode updates as you type.
- For EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC and ITF-14 you can leave out the last digit: the check digit is calculated. If you type it, it is checked.
- Open Options to change bar width, height, margin, text and colors. Your settings are remembered.
- Download PNG or SVG, or copy the image. For many codes, use Batch to get a ZIP of PNGs or a PDF sheet of labels.
- Scan reads barcodes from your camera, a photo or a pasted screenshot.
- EAN-13 is the standard retail barcode outside North America (JAN in Japan); UPC-A is used in the US and Canada. Real product numbers come from GS1 — made-up numbers are fine for internal use only.
- Code 128 fits any text and switches between subsets A, B and C automatically for the shortest result. Code 39 supports A–Z, 0–9, space and - . $ / + %.
- ITF-14 encodes a 14-digit GTIN for cartons. For print, keep bar width at 2 px or more and leave a quiet zone (margin) on both sides.
- PNG files are rendered at 3× for sharp printing. SVG and PDF labels are vector and scale without blur.
- Scanning uses your browser’s barcode reader when available, otherwise Utiluse’s own reader. Images never leave your device.
Which barcode type to use
EAN-13 is the retail barcode used worldwide outside North America (called JAN in Japan); UPC-A is its 12-digit counterpart in the US and Canada, and UPC-E is a shortened version for small packs. ITF-14 encodes a 14-digit GTIN for outer cartons. Code 128 encodes any text and is common for shipping labels, inventory and internal IDs; Code 39 is an older format for letters, digits and a few symbols, still used in industry and on ID badges.
Real retail product numbers are issued by GS1 to your company. Made-up EAN or UPC numbers are fine for internal use but will not be accepted by stores or marketplaces.
How the check digit works
EAN and UPC end with a check digit that catches typing and scanning errors. Multiply the digits alternately by 1 and 3 from the left (for EAN-13), add them up and take the amount needed to reach the next multiple of ten. For 400638133393 the weighted sum is 89, so the check digit is 1 and the full code is 4006381333931. Leave the last digit out and it is calculated; type it and it is verified.
Printing barcodes that scan
Keep the narrowest bar at 2 px or more in PNG and leave a quiet zone (empty margin) on both sides. Black bars on white scan best; avoid red bars, which many laser scanners cannot see. PNG files are rendered at 3× for sharp printing, and SVG and PDF labels are vector, so they scale without blur.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate an EAN-13 check digit?
Type the first 12 digits and the tool adds the 13th. By hand: multiply the digits alternately by 1 and 3, sum them, and the check digit is what brings the sum up to the next multiple of 10.
Can I use a made-up EAN or UPC number on products?
Only internally. Stores and marketplaces require GS1-issued numbers that belong to your company. For internal stock, Code 128 with your own IDs is often the simpler choice.
What is the difference between Code 128 and Code 39?
Code 128 encodes all ASCII characters and is more compact, switching between subsets A, B and C automatically. Code 39 supports only A–Z, 0–9, space and - . $ / + %, and is wider for the same content.
How do I make many barcodes at once?
Open Batch, paste a list with one code per line and choose the format. Download a ZIP of PNG files or a PDF sheet of labels on A4 or Letter.
Can I scan a barcode with my phone here?
Yes. Open Scan and allow the camera, or choose a photo or screenshot. It reads EAN, UPC, Code 128, Code 39 and ITF, and images never leave your device.
Which format is best for printing labels?
SVG or the PDF label sheet, because vector bars stay sharp at any size. For PNG, keep the bar width at 2 px or more.