Barcodes are the backbone of retail, logistics, and inventory. Whether you need a single EAN-13 or 500 Code 128 barcodes — this guide covers every type and how to generate them free.
The 8 Most Common Barcode Types
- Code 128: Universal choice. Encodes any ASCII character. Used in shipping, logistics, healthcare.
- EAN-13: 13-digit barcode for retail products globally. Standard on consumer goods outside North America.
- EAN-8: Compact 8-digit version for small packaging.
- UPC-A: 12-digit barcode for US and Canada retail.
- Code 39: Alphanumeric. Used for ID cards, military, and industrial labeling.
- ITF-14: 14 digits. Used for shipping cartons and pallets.
Which Barcode Type Should You Use?
Retail products? → EAN-13 or UPC-A. Shipping? → Code 128 or ITF-14. Internal inventory? → Code 128. ID cards? → Code 39. Not sure? → Code 128 is the safe default.
How to Generate a Free Barcode Online
Go to the CodePrints Barcode Generator, select your type, enter the value, optionally adjust height and colors, then download as PNG or SVG. No signup. No watermark.
Bulk Barcode Generation — Download ZIP
Use the Bulk Generate tab: paste values (one per line, up to 500), choose type and format, click Preview, then Download ZIP. Each barcode saved as a separate file named after its value.
