UPC Barcode Generator
Generate UPC barcodes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UPC barcode?
UPC (Universal Product Code) is a 12-digit barcode used primarily in the US and Canada for retail products. UPC-A has 12 digits: 1 number system digit, 5 manufacturer digits, 5 product digits, and 1 check digit. It is the standard for point-of-sale scanning.
How is the UPC check digit calculated?
Add odd-position digits, multiply by 3. Add even-position digits. Sum both. Check digit = (10 - total mod 10) mod 10. Example: 03600029145X → (0+6+0+2+1+5)×3 + (3+0+0+9+4) = 42+16 = 58, check = 2. The generator calculates automatically.
How do I get a UPC code for my product?
Join GS1 US ($250/year for 1-10 products). You receive a company prefix. Assign unique product numbers. Calculate check digits. The generator creates scannable barcode images from your 12-digit UPC numbers for product packaging.
What is the difference between UPC-A and UPC-E?
UPC-A: 12 digits, full-size barcode for standard products. UPC-E: 8 digits, compressed version for small packages. UPC-E suppresses zeros from UPC-A to create a shorter code. Both encode the same information; UPC-E just takes less space.
Can I use the same UPC code for different product variations?
No. Each unique product variation (size, color, flavor) needs its own UPC. A 12 oz and 16 oz version of the same drink need different UPCs. Multipacks also need unique codes. Reusing UPCs causes inventory and pricing errors at retail.