UPC-A Barcode Generator

What UPC-A is

UPC-A (Universal Product Code, version A) encodes a GTIN-12. It is technically an EAN-13 whose first digit is 0, which is why scanners worldwide read it and why a UPC number can be listed as a 13-digit GTIN with a leading zero.

To sell through retailers and marketplaces in North America you need a company prefix licensed from GS1 US (or GS1 Canada). QR & Barcode Studio validates the number and check digit you enter but does not issue or register numbers.

Structure and dimensions

• Digit 1: number system or first digit of the GS1 company prefix (2 is used for in-store variable weight items, 5 for coupons historically).
• Digits 2–11: rest of the company prefix and the item reference.
• Digit 12: mod-10 check digit with weights 3 and 1, starting with 3 on the first digit.
• 95 modules wide like EAN-13, with guard bars that extend below the other bars.
• Quiet zone of at least 9X on each side; nominal X is 0.33 mm, giving about 37.29 × 25.91 mm at 100%.

Printing and quality

Scale between 80% and 200% and avoid shortening the bar height. Print dark bars on a white or pale background; red, orange and light brown bars do not scan with laser or red-LED scanners. If you print on a thermal label printer, choose a size that lands on whole printer dots, which the app's print size guidance helps with.

For production runs, check samples with an ISO/IEC 15416 verifier; many retailers ask for grade C or better.

How to make it

1. Choose UPC-A in the barcode generator.
2. Enter the 11 digits from your GS1 US allocation; the check digit appears automatically.
3. Set magnification and bar height with the print size guidance.
4. Export SVG or PDF for packaging, or PNG for a quick label.
5. Scan a test print before production.

Frequently asked questions