EAN-13
Retail products
A 13-digit barcode used on products sold in shops. The last digit is a check digit calculated from the previous 12.
FAQs
Barcode questions answered
Short answers about formats, check digits, printing and keeping barcode cards in the TapTapp app.
Is the barcode generator free?
Yes. You create and download barcodes without an account or payment. The generator runs in your browser and does not send the number or text you enter.
What is the check digit in an EAN-13 barcode?
It is the last, thirteenth digit. It is calculated from the first 12 digits and helps the scanner detect a misread number. If you enter 12 digits, the generator calculates and adds the check digit. If you enter 13, it checks the last digit and shows an error if it is wrong.
Can I make up an EAN-13 number for my product?
You can draw a barcode for any valid number, but a retail product number should come from the GS1 system. In Serbia, a company applies to GS1 Srbija for a company prefix and builds its product numbers from it. For labels scanned only in your own system, use Code 128.
GS1 Srbija: first steps (in Serbian)What is the difference between Code 128 and Code 39?
Both formats encode letters and digits. Code 128 supports lowercase and capital letters and more symbols, and takes less space for the same text. Code 39 only supports capital letters, digits and a few symbols. Choose Code 39 only when your scanner or software asks for it.
Why does the generator reject accented letters?
Code 128 and Code 39 encode a basic character set without accented letters such as č, š or é. Replace them with plain letters, or use a code made of digits and unaccented letters.
Should I download a PNG or an SVG?
Use a PNG for documents, presentations and printing at its downloaded size. An SVG is a vector image that stays sharp at any size, so it is the better choice for labels, packaging and professional printing.
Why won't my barcode scan?
Check that you chose the format the scanner expects and that the number is correct. The barcode must not be blurred, stretched, cropped or too small. Leave white space around the bars and print them in a dark colour on a light background. If the barcode is on a phone screen, turn up the brightness.
How do I save a barcode card in TapTapp?
Open the add-card flow in the TapTapp app and scan the barcode on the card or from an image in your gallery. If the card only has a number, enter it and TapTapp will prepare a barcode. Open the saved card on your phone and present its code at the point of use.
