How to make a barcode

Making the barcode image takes a minute. Getting the number, size and printing right takes a little more care. Here's the whole process, plus how to use your barcode in Word, Excel and Canva.

By the BarcodePilot team · Updated

Moving labelled cartons in a warehouse
Moving labelled cartons in a warehouse.

Step 1: know what the barcode is for

  • A product you'll sell in shops or on Amazon? You need a GS1 number first. See how to get a barcode for your product.
  • Your own stock, assets, tickets or documents? Use any code you like, such as your SKU, and barcode it with Code 128.

Step 2: generate it

  1. Open the barcode generator and choose the type.
  2. Type your number. For UPC and EAN, leave off the last digit and we'll add the check digit.
  3. Leave the size on Standard unless you have a reason to change it.
  4. Download: PNG for Word, Excel, Google Docs and Canva; SVG or PDF for professional print and packaging.

Need dozens or hundreds? Use the bulk generator. Printing straight onto labels? Use the label maker.

Container cranes at the Port of Southampton
Container cranes at the Port of Southampton.

In Microsoft Word

Insert → Pictures → This Device and choose the PNG. Our PNGs store their print resolution, so Word inserts them at the correct physical size. Don't drag the corners to resize; if you must, hold Shift so the proportions stay the same, and stay above 80% of the original size. Set Wrap Text to In front of text to place it freely.

In Excel

You can insert PNGs with Insert → Pictures. For a whole column of barcodes, it's quicker to save the column as CSV, make them all with the bulk generator, and print labels from there. Barcode fonts for Excel exist, but Code 128 fonts need a macro to calculate the check character, and UPC/EAN fonts need special encoding. Images are more reliable.

In Canva

Upload the PNG (or SVG with Canva Pro) and place it on your design. Keep a white box behind it if your design has a coloured background, and leave a clear margin on each side. Export your finished design as PDF Print so the bars stay crisp.

Step 3: test before you print hundreds

  1. Print one copy at 100% scale on the printer and paper or labels you'll actually use.
  2. Scan it with a phone barcode app and with your real scanner if you have one.
  3. Check the number it reads matches exactly, including the check digit.

Common mistakes

  • No blank margins. The quiet zone either side is part of the barcode.
  • Squashed or stretched images. Resize only in proportion.
  • Low contrast. Dark bars on white. No red bars, no dark backgrounds.
  • Too small for the printer. Thin bars on a low-resolution or inkjet printer bleed together. Use a wider bar width.
  • Placed on a curve or seam. On bottles, run the bars vertically (like a picket fence) or use a smaller barcode, and avoid folds and edges on boxes.
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse.

Questions

  • Yes. Generating the barcode image is free here, with no sign-up. Only retail product numbers (UPC/EAN) cost money, from GS1.

  • Download a PNG here and insert it with Insert → Pictures. It comes in at the right size; don't stretch it.

  • For internal use, yes: any code works with Code 128. For selling products in shops or online, the number must come from GS1.