Barcode Generator — Types of Barcodes and When to Use Each One

UPC, EAN, Code 128, QR — there are dozens of barcode types. Learn which one you need for your specific use case.

Barcodes have been around since the 1970s and they're not going anywhere. Every product on every shelf in every store has one. Shipping labels, warehouse inventory, library books, event tickets, loyalty cards — barcodes are embedded in the infrastructure of modern commerce.

1D vs 2D barcodes

1D (linear) barcodes are the classic vertical stripes you see on products. They encode data in one direction — horizontally. They hold limited data (usually just a number) and need a relatively large physical space.

2D barcodes encode data in both directions, allowing much more information in a smaller space. QR codes are the most famous example, but there are others like Data Matrix and PDF417.

Common barcode types

UPC-A — The standard 12-digit barcode on products sold in North America. If you're selling physical products in stores, you need this.

EAN-13 — The international equivalent of UPC, 13 digits. Standard in Europe and most of the world.

Code 128 — Encodes all 128 ASCII characters. Common for shipping labels, logistics, and internal inventory.

Code 39 — Older format, still used in automotive and defense industries. Can encode numbers, uppercase letters, and a few symbols.

QR Code — 2D, holds up to 4,000 characters. For QR codes specifically, Toolozo has dedicated tools: QR Generator, QR Art, and vCard QR.

When you need a barcode

Selling products online (Amazon, Etsy, etc.) — You need a UPC or EAN. Internal inventory management — Code 128 is flexible and compact. Asset labeling — Code 39 or Code 128 for equipment tags. Shipping — Code 128 for tracking numbers.

Generate yours

Toolozo's Barcode Generator creates 1D barcodes in multiple formats. Choose your barcode type, enter your data, and download the barcode as an image. You can then print it on labels, embed it in documents, or use it in your inventory system.