EAN-13 Generator
EAN-13 Generator sends entered text to a standards-aware barcode library configured for EAN-13. The library can reject invalid length, characters, or check digit. A scannable symbol does not allocate a GTIN, prove company ownership, authorize retail use, or add product information to retailer databases.
Runs locally — files stay on your deviceCan any 13 digits become a legitimate retail product number?
No. GTIN allocation and ownership come through GS1/company processes; the barcode merely represents digits.
EAN-13 carries a 13-digit GTIN representation
The final digit is a modulo-10 check digit calculated from the preceding digits. Prefixes and item references are governed separately from symbol rendering.
How it works
Enter the numeric value. bwip-js validates and renders the EAN-13 symbol with readable digits, or reports an error.
Key concepts
Check digit detects common errors
It is not a security signature or ownership proof.
Number allocation precedes rendering
A valid-looking symbol can still use an unauthorized identifier.
When to use it
- Render an already assigned and verified GTIN-13.
- Create test fixtures.
- Check a barcode library integration.
When not to use it
- Do not invent retail numbers.
- Do not infer product origin from the prefix alone.
- Do not deploy without GS1 and print-quality compliance.
Worked examples
Assigned GTIN
- Input
A verified 13-digit value- Expected output
EAN-13 PNG
The library checks format.
Letters
- Input
ABC- Expected output
Error
EAN-13 is numeric.
Wrong check digit
- Input
13 digits with mismatch- Expected output
Library error
The checksum should agree.
Common mistakes
Inventing a prefix
Syntax does not grant allocation. Correction: Use an authorized GS1-assigned number.
Calling check digit authentication
It only detects certain transcription errors. Correction: Use supply-chain controls separately.
Ignoring print specifications
Magnification and quiet zones affect retail scanning. Correction: Follow GS1 print requirements.
Best practices
- Use only assigned GTINs.
- Verify the check digit and master data.
- Test printed symbols under target retail conditions.
Related operations and differences
EAN-8 Generator
Choose EAN-8 Generator when you need to generate a compact EAN-8 barcode.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
Code 128 Generator
Choose Code 128 Generator when you need to generate a downloadable Code 128 barcode.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
Code 39 Generator
Choose Code 39 Generator when you need to generate a Code 39 barcode.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
UPC-A Generator
Choose UPC-A Generator when you need to generate a UPC-A product barcode.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
Bitcoin Payment QR Code
Choose Bitcoin Payment QR Code when you need to create a Bitcoin payment URI QR code.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
Contact vCard QR Code
Choose Contact vCard QR Code when you need to create a contact card QR code.; use EAN-13 Generator specifically for barcode ean13.
Limitations and privacy
- Rendering only.
- No allocation, ownership, prefix interpretation, product lookup, database publication, or print verification.
- Library decides accepted input form.
Generation happens locally in this browser. The PNG contains the entered payload, so share it with the same care as the underlying data.
Frequently asked questions
Does it allocate a GTIN?
No.
Is the last digit a check digit?
Yes.
Can letters be encoded?
No.
Does a valid barcode prove ownership?
No.