Complete Guide to 1D Barcode Generation and Use
1D barcodes are widely used in retail, logistics, warehousing, libraries, and more. This guide covers common barcode types, use cases, and how to generate them for free with SheetEdit Tools.
What is a 1D barcode?
A 1D barcode (one-dimensional barcode) encodes data as a series of vertical bars and spaces of different widths in a single row. Scanners read the pattern to recover numbers or text. Unlike QR codes, 1D codes store relatively little data but are fast to print and scan, which is why they remain the standard on product packaging and shipping labels.
Barcode types
CODE128
Universal format supporting ASCII characters. Moderate density, most widely used. Suitable for product codes, serial numbers, and shipping labels.
EAN-13 / EAN-8
International product barcode standard. EAN-13 uses 13 digits, EAN-8 uses 8. Common in retail. Requires manufacturer code registration.
UPC
North American retail standard, 12 digits, compatible with EAN-13. Used on product packaging in the US and Canada.
CODE39 / CODE93
Alphanumeric encoding. CODE39 has broad compatibility; CODE93 is more compact. Used in industrial and medical labeling.
ITF-14
14-digit barcode for logistics cartons. Related to EAN-13 structure. Suitable for outer box labeling.
Codabar
Encodes digits and hyphens. Common in libraries, blood banks, and courier labels.
MSI
Primarily for inventory management. Numeric encoding.
Common use cases
Retail and products
Generate EAN-13 or UPC codes for products. Used at checkout and for inventory. Ensure codes are registered and compliant.
Logistics and warehousing
Use CODE128 or ITF-14 for packages and cartons. Enables scanning for data entry and tracking.
Asset management
Create unique codes for equipment and files. Use with scanners for quick inventory.
Tickets and events
Generate serial barcodes for tickets, check-in, and membership cards.
Generating barcodes with SheetEdit Tools
Basic steps
- Open the Codes page and select the Barcode (1D) tool.
- Choose a format (e.g., CODE128, EAN13, UPC).
- Enter the content to encode (format-specific requirements apply).
- Adjust width, margin, and text display.
- Export as PNG or PDF, or print directly.
Format and content rules
- EAN-13: 13 digits; last digit is check digit (can be auto-calculated).
- EAN-8: 8 digits.
- UPC: 12 digits.
- CODE128: Letters, numbers, and some symbols.
- CODE39: 0–9, A–Z, -, ., $, /, +, %, space.
Printing tips
- Bar width at least 0.25mm; height 15–20mm or more.
- Export at 300 DPI for reliable scanning.
- Avoid glare and damage; ensure good contrast.
All generation runs in your browser. No data is uploaded to our servers.
For QR codes and 2D formats, see the QR Code Guide.
Browse more guides and tutorials at the Article Index.