UPC-E Barcode Generator

Make a compact UPC-E barcode for small packs like cans, cosmetics and chewing gum. Enter the 6 digits (or 7 or 8) and we add the number system and check digit.

6 digits, or 7 with the number system (0 or 1), or 8 with the check digit

Change the bar width, height and text here. The barcode on the left is drawn at the size it will print, so at 100% zoom it should match a ruler held to the screen.

PNG and JPG files store their resolution, so Word, Canva and label software place them at this size.

Colours

Dark bars on a light background scan best. Most scanners use red light, so red, orange and yellow bars read as blank.

What is UPC-E?

UPC-E is a shortened UPC for packs too small for a full UPC-A. It removes ("suppresses") runs of zeros from a UPC-A number, so the barcode is about half the width. When it's scanned, the till expands it back into the full 12-digit UPC-A, so both codes point to the same product record.

Digits8: number system (0 or 1), 6 data digits, check digit
Standard size (100%)22.11 mm × 25.91 mm including the numbers
Only works forUPC-A numbers with enough zeros in the right places
Used onDrink cans, cosmetics, sweets, small hardware

Can any UPC become a UPC-E?

No. Only UPC-A numbers that contain a run of zeros in specific positions can be compressed, and in practice only companies with certain GS1 US prefixes get numbers that fit. If you type a 6-digit code here we show the full UPC-A it stands for, so you can check it matches the number GS1 gave you.

The sixth digit says where the zeros go:

Last digit of the 6UPC-E dataExpands to UPC-A
0, 1 or 2abcde0N ab000 00cde C
3abcde3N abc00 000de C
4abcde4N abcd0 0000e C
5 to 9abcde5N abcde 00005 C

N is the number system (0 or 1) and C is the check digit, which is always calculated from the expanded UPC-A.

How to make one

  1. Enter the 6 digits printed in the middle of your UPC-E, or all 7 with the leading number system, or all 8.
  2. Check the expanded UPC-A shown under the box against the number GS1 issued you.
  3. Download PNG for labels, or SVG/PDF for packaging artwork.
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse.

Questions

  • Only UPC-As with zeros in the right places convert. Enter the 6-digit UPC-E here and we show its UPC-A; if your UPC-A doesn't have that pattern, use a full UPC-A or an EAN-8 instead.

  • Only number systems 0 and 1 are defined for zero-suppressed codes.

  • Amazon expects the full 12-digit UPC in listings. Put the UPC-A number in your listing; the UPC-E barcode on the pack scans as the same number.