Quick selection: data length and purpose
EAN-13: 12 data digits plus one check digit. EAN-8: seven data digits plus one check digit. UPC-A: eleven data digits plus one check digit. These are retail formats for identifiers assigned under the applicable numbering rules.
Code 128: printable ASCII data for compatible workflows; it is not automatically GS1-128. Choose by the receiving system, not by which image looks smallest. AIQRGO now offers a separate check digit calculator, EAN/UPC validator and generic label printer.
Retail identifiers: EAN-13 and UPC-A
EAN-13 encodes 13 digits and is used in retail in many regions. UPC-A encodes 12 digits and is common in North American retail. Some systems support conversion, but confirm the requirements of each retailer or channel.
If you need a product identifier, obtain it under the applicable GS1 rules. A valid check digit confirms the number’s structure, not your right to use it.
EAN-8 for eligible products with limited space
EAN-8 is a compact eight-digit retail format used where numbering rules allow it, sometimes for products with limited packaging space. It is not a way to shorten an arbitrary product number.
Check EAN-8 eligibility and assignment requirements with the relevant GS1 organization and retail partners before printing.
Code 128 for operational labels and internal data
Code 128 can encode printable ASCII letters and digits, making it useful for many internal labels and operational workflows. The value must still follow the receiving system’s rules.
Define inventory or asset identifiers within your organization and confirm the scanners and software in the workflow support the selected format.
Test the complete scanning workflow
Before a large print run, confirm where the identifier came from, check its digit, print at the final size and test with the actual equipment. Keep clear space at the barcode edges and do not distort it.
AIQRGO can calculate or validate supported check digits and export SVG or PNG. It cannot register, assign or certify product identifiers.