EAN-8 Barcode Generator
Create the compact 8-digit EAN barcode for small products.
How to use the EAN-8 Barcode Generator
- Enter 7 digits (check digit added) or a full 8-digit number.
- Download the barcode.
About the EAN-8 Barcode Generator
EAN-8 is the compact sibling of EAN-13, used where a full 13-digit barcode simply will not fit — chewing gum, cosmetics, small confectionery, cigarette packs and similar. It encodes eight digits, the last of which is a check digit computed from the other seven by a weighted sum so the till can catch a misread. Enter 7 digits and this tool calculates and appends the check digit; enter all 8 and it is validated.
The same essential caveat applies as to any retail barcode: the numbers are assigned by GS1. Drawing an EAN-8 here does not register a product or give you a legitimate GTIN — it renders bars for a number you already hold. EAN-8 numbers are rationed more tightly than EAN-13 precisely because there are so few of them, and GS1 typically issues them only for products that genuinely cannot carry a larger symbol. If you plan to sell through shops, get your own GS1 allocation first.
Because the symbol is small, print quality matters more, not less: keep it dark on a plain light background, never stretch it, and protect the quiet zones at both ends — on a cramped package those margins are the first thing a designer sacrifices, and the first reason the code fails at the till. It is numeric only. For carton-level codes use ITF-14.
Frequently asked questions
When should I use EAN-8 instead of EAN-13?
Only when the product is genuinely too small for an EAN-13 at an acceptable print size. EAN-8 numbers are a scarce resource and GS1 issues them sparingly — EAN-13 is the default.
Does this give me a real product number?
No. GTINs come from GS1. This tool draws the bars for a number you supply. Selling in shops requires your own GS1 company prefix and numbers allocated from it.
What is the eighth digit?
A check digit, calculated from the first seven with a weighted sum so scanners can spot misreads. Enter 7 digits and it is added automatically.
Can EAN-8 hold letters?
No. Like all EAN and UPC formats it is strictly numeric. For letters and symbols, use Code 128.
Why does my small barcode fail to scan?
Small symbols are unforgiving. Blurry or lightweight printing, stretching it to fit, low contrast, or trimming the quiet zones at the ends will all break it. Print at the full recommended size on a plain light background.