Create UPC-A barcodes for product labels
Generate UPC-A barcode artwork for US and Canadian retail product labels.
Create your barcode
ValidateWhen to use a UPC-A barcode
UPC-A barcodes are common on North American retail products. Use this page for artwork and validation checks, but do not treat a generated image as proof that the number is assigned to your product.
Keep UPC labels strict
UPC A codes are common in retail, so small mistakes are expensive.
- Use the assigned twelve digit value for the product.
- Do not crop the empty space beside the bars.
- Scan the printed proof with a real POS scanner when possible.
If the product will enter retail, confirm the identifier before design.
Create a UPC-A barcode
- Enter the full 12-digit UPC-A number.
- Check the number against your product records before generating artwork.
- Generate the barcode and review the output at the size you plan to print.
- Reference the SVG in the final packaging file and proof on paper from the PNG or PDF.
- Scan a printed proof and compare the decoded value with the product record.
Where UPC-A barcodes fit
- North American retail packaging
- Product mockups
- Label proofs
UPC-A number checks
- UPC-A is common in the United States and Canada.
- A valid check digit only confirms the math rule, not ownership or retailer approval.
- Keep the barcode away from folds, seams, curved edges and glossy glare when possible.
UPC-A mistakes to avoid
- Generating artwork for a UPC number that has not been assigned through the right process.
- Dropping leading zeros when a spreadsheet or database formats the number.
- Approving packaging without scanning a final-size printed proof.
UPC-A barcode questions
Can this create a UPC for my product?
It can create the barcode image, but it doesn't assign UPC numbers. To get an official UPC, register with GS1 US (or your regional GS1 office) for a company prefix.
How many digits does UPC-A use?
UPC-A uses 12 digits, including the final check digit.
Should I scan a UPC proof before printing?
Yes. Print a proof at the actual label size and scan it with a handheld scanner or phone. Check that the decoded number matches your product record and that the barcode reads on the first pass without tilting or searching.
Should I enter 11 or 12 digits for UPC-A?
Enter the full 12-digit UPC-A value when generating artwork. If you only have the first 11 digits, calculate the check digit before making the barcode.
What is the difference between UPC-A and EAN-13?
UPC-A uses 12 digits and is the standard in US and Canadian retail. EAN-13 uses 13 digits and is the global standard. You can convert any UPC-A to EAN-13 by adding a leading zero. If you sell internationally, check whether your retailer expects UPC or EAN.
Do I need a GS1 membership to use UPC barcodes?
For retail shelves, yes. GS1 assigns official company prefixes that guarantee your UPC number is unique worldwide. For internal warehouse or asset labels that never reach a store shelf, you can use any numbering system your team agrees on.
What do the 12 digits in a UPC-A represent?
The first digit is a number system character, the next five identify the manufacturer, the following five identify the product and the last digit is the check digit. The exact split between manufacturer and product digits depends on your GS1 company prefix length.
Can I get a single UPC without a full GS1 membership?
GS1 US offers a single GTIN option at a lower cost than a full company prefix. It gives you one official, globally unique UPC number without the annual renewal fee of a full membership.
How do I test a UPC barcode before printing thousands of labels?
Print one label at the final size on the actual label stock. Scan it with a handheld scanner and a phone app. Check that the decoded number matches your product record and that the scan works on the first try without tilting or repositioning.
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