PDFConvertersOnline.comHow to make a UPC barcode
- Enter your UPC. With 11 digits the 12th check digit is calculated; with 12 digits the last one is verified.
- Read the message under the field to confirm the check digit, or accept the suggested fix if there's a typo.
- Download SVG for packaging artwork or PNG for labels. Tick the many-barcodes box to export a whole product list as a ZIP.
What UPC-A is used for
UPC-A (Universal Product Code) is the 12-digit barcode printed on retail products in the United States and Canada. Grocery stores, pharmacies and big-box retailers scan it at the register to look up the product and price. Like every retail barcode, it contains only the number; the product name and price live in the store's database.
The 12 digits
| Position | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1st digit | Number system (for example 0, 1, 6, 7, 8 for regular products, 3 for drugs and health items, 2 for items weighed in store) |
| Next digits | Company prefix licensed by GS1 US plus the item number |
| 12th digit | Check digit |
Under the bars the first and last digits are printed smaller, outside the main group, which is how you can recognize a UPC-A at a glance.
How the UPC check digit works
Take the first 11 digits. Add the digits in odd positions (1st, 3rd, 5th and so on) and multiply that sum by 3. Add the digits in even positions. Add both results; the check digit is whatever brings the total up to the next multiple of 10. For 03600029145 the total is 58, so the check digit is 2 and the complete UPC is 036000291452. The generator does this as you type, and if you enter all 12 digits with a wrong final digit, it tells you the correct one.
UPC and EAN-13 are related
A UPC-A is the same number as an EAN-13 that starts with 0. For example, 036000291452 as a UPC is 0036000291452 as an EAN-13. Scanners in most countries read both, so products labeled with UPC-A can usually be sold abroad too. If a buyer outside North America specifically asks for EAN-13, add the leading zero and use the EAN-13 Barcode Generator.
Where UPC numbers come from
To sell at major US retailers and on large marketplaces, your UPC must be licensed to your brand by GS1 US. They assign a company prefix, and you number your products from it. Retailers can verify the owner of a number, so digits you invent yourself, or resold codes from unofficial sellers, may be rejected even when the barcode scans. Use this tool to create the barcode artwork once you have your number, or to make internal codes for items that never leave your own store or warehouse.
Printing tips
- Keep the blank space on both sides of the bars; don't let text or a box edge touch them.
- Stick to black bars on white. Red bars can be invisible to scanners that use red light.
- Scale the whole image evenly and don't cut off the bottom of the bars.
- Scan a printed proof with a real scanner or a phone barcode app before a full print run.
Labeling your own inventory rather than retail goods? Code 128 accepts letters as well as digits.
More ways to use this tool
Frequently asked questions
How many digits does a UPC have?
UPC-A has 12 digits: 11 data digits and a check digit. Enter 11 and the tool adds the 12th.
What is the difference between UPC-A and UPC-E?
UPC-E is a compressed 8-digit form for tiny packages, made from certain UPC-A numbers that contain runs of zeros. This page makes the standard UPC-A.
Can I create my own UPC number for free?
You can type any number and get a barcode, but for retail it must be licensed to you by GS1 US. Otherwise it may belong to another company's product.
Why does the tool say my check digit is wrong?
The last digit doesn't match the calculation from the first 11 digits, which usually means a typo. Double-check the number, or press the button to use the corrected digit.
Is my product list uploaded?
No. Barcodes, including ZIP batches, are generated on your device.