We occasionally get enquiries about the ‘Free Barcode Generators’ available online. There are two different types of free ‘barcode generation’ online. Some websites generate free barcode numbers. They make up a random barcode number. However they cannot provide authentic EAN or UPC barcodes that are legal for use on retail products. Other sites offer to generate free barcode images (based on your barcode number). For more information please read on:
Free barcode generators provide made-up barcode numbers
Some sites offer to generate free barcode numbers. These are not legitimate retail barcodes, and it is illegal to use these made up numbers in a retail store. Using these numbers in retail stores can lead to significant problems if it is discovered. Using free or cheap barcodes may end up costing you a huge amount more in reprinting in the long run.
Free barcode generators only provide barcode images
Free barcode generators online can produce low quality images using your barcode number. However we advise caution in using these types of images. You may be unable to adjust the size of these barcode images, and the images are of low quality. It will be a huge additional expense to you if you later need to reprint your packaging due to using poor quality barcode images in the first print run. Further, some retailers require barcode verification reports (a professional ‘test scan’ of your barcode image to ensure that it is high quality and is easily readable by barcode scanners). A barcode image generated on a free online programme may be of low quality, and/or of the incorrect barcoding dimensions – consequently you risk your barcode failing a verification report.
Font
You may be able to get “barcode font” on your computer (using MS Word, or other programmes) however this does not work properly for retail barcodes. The images produced are of very low quality and this causes issues when scanning.
Professional Barcode Software
Professional barcode image software is a third possibility – however the quality programmes cost a large amount of money can be very confusing to use. This may be a suitable option if you have thousands of barcode numbers that need images, however if you require a smaller amount of images it may not be the best option for you.
Buy Barcode Images
You can purchase quality barcode images from us here.
