How to make an EAN-13 label
- Use the product identifier assigned to your product. Keep any leading zeros.
- Enter 12 base digits or the full 13-digit number. The preview validates the check digit; invalid input disables exports.
- Choose black bars on white. Download SVG for scalable artwork or PNG for raster workflows.
- Keep the white quiet zones, preserve proportions and test the printed label with your intended scanner.
EAN-13 check digit example
The demonstration value 590123412345 produces check digit 7, giving 5901234123457. Starting at the right of the base number, multiply alternating digits by 3 and 1, sum them, then use the digit needed to reach the next multiple of 10. A valid check digit detects common entry errors; it does not prove ownership or retailer acceptance.
Does this create a registered product number?
No. This tool renders a barcode symbol, not a GS1 registration or a product database entry. Obtain an appropriate identifier through GS1 or your authorized issuing channel and check your retailer's requirements. Never use the demo number on a product for sale.
EAN-13 or UPC-A?
EAN-13 contains 13 digits and is widely used for international retail. Its GS1 prefix does not establish a product’s country of manufacture. Keep leading zeros and do not substitute an arbitrary number for an assigned GTIN. Use the UPC-A generator if that is the format you need, or Code 128 for internal alphanumeric SKUs.
What is an EAN-13 barcode?
EAN-13 (European Article Number) is the 13-digit retail barcode used worldwide; it encodes a GTIN-13. A 13 digit barcode of this kind is made of a GS1 prefix (the first 2-3 digits, assigned by GS1 member organisations, not a statement of origin), your company prefix, an item reference and a final check digit. Example: 5901234123457 has GS1 prefix 590, company and item digits 123412345, check digit 7. ISBN-13 book barcodes (978/979) are EAN-13 too.
How the EAN 13 check digit is calculated
For 590123412345, read from the right and multiply the digits by 3, 1, 3, 1 and so on: 5x3 + 4 + 3x3 + 2 + 1x3 + 4 + 3x3 + 2 + 1x3 + 0 + 9x3 + 5 = 83. The next multiple of ten is 90, so the check digit is 90 - 83 = 7.
Where real EAN-13 numbers come from
Shops, Amazon and other marketplaces expect numbers issued under your own GS1 company prefix. UtiliKit draws the symbol for a number you already own; it does not sell, assign or look up EAN numbers. Get your prefix from GS1 (link above) first, and never print the demo number on a real product.
EAN-13 size, quiet zone and print tips
- Nominal size is about 37 x 26 mm (1.46 x 1.02 in) including margins; scaling from roughly 80% to 200% is permitted.
- Keep the blank quiet zone (11 bar-widths on the left, 7 on the right) and never crop it.
- Use black bars on a plain white background with high contrast; scale width and height together.
SVG or PNG for printing?
SVG is vector artwork that stays sharp at any size, so use it for packaging artwork and print shops. PNG is a fixed-pixel image that suits documents and listings; export it large enough (about 300 dpi at the final print size) and never enlarge a small one.
Related generators
Also see the UPC-A generator, the general barcode generator, Code 128 for internal SKUs, and the QR code generator for linking to a web page.
Will my printed label scan?
Rendering a valid symbol is only the first step. Physical size, print resolution, contrast, quiet zones and packaging can affect readability. Do not stretch the artwork or crop its margins; test at the final print size. UtiliKit does not certify labels or guarantee retailer approval.
Which downloads are free?
PNG downloads have no daily cap. The free tier includes 5 SVG exports per day shared across QR and barcode tools in this browser, resetting at midnight UTC. Premium (€9.99 once or €0.99/month) removes that daily cap. Barcode data is rendered locally; this is not a barcode lookup service.