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▶ Developer Tools for Random Data Generation // v2.13.1
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Random Barcode Generator

Generate random barcodes (EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC, Code128) with cryptographic security

Our random barcode generator helps you generate random barcodes with cryptographic security and industry-standard formats. Generate-Random.org provides a free barcode generator that creates valid barcodes in multiple formats including EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, UPC-E, Code128, and Code39. This random barcode generator uses cryptographically secure random number generation (CSPRNG) for maximum unpredictability—perfect for product testing, inventory systems, QR code generation, and development environments. Generate barcodes instantly with automatic checksum calculation and validation. No signup required, completely free. For alphanumeric codes, try our string generator.

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$ generate --type=qr-code --format=png
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NUMBER GENERATOR →

Generate random numbers for custom barcode formats and sequential product numbering

$ generate --type=number --min=1 --max=999999
STRING GENERATOR →

Generate random alphanumeric strings for Code39 and Code128 barcode content

$ generate --type=string --charset=alphanumeric

What is a Barcode Generator?

A barcode generator is a tool that creates machine-readable barcodes following industry standards like EAN, UPC, and Code128. Our generator uses cryptographically secure random number generation to create unique barcode values with proper checksum validation.

Unlike manual barcode creation, our generator automatically calculates checksums, validates formats, and ensures compliance with GS1 standards. Perfect for testing POS systems, inventory management software, and product catalogs. For 2D barcodes, explore our QR code generator.

Barcode Generator Configuration Options

Barcode Format (EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC, Code128)

Choose from industry-standard barcode formats. EAN-13 is the most common format worldwide (13 digits), UPC-A is standard in North America (12 digits), Code128 supports alphanumeric content, and EAN-8 is compact (8 digits) for small products.

Quantity (1-50 Barcodes)

Generate multiple barcodes at once for batch product creation, testing inventory systems, or distributing to team members. Each barcode is independently generated with unique values and proper checksums.

Image Format (PNG, SVG, JPG)

Export barcodes as raster images (PNG, JPG) for printing or vector graphics (SVG) for scalable designs. PNG recommended for print quality, SVG for web applications and design tools.

Size & Resolution (DPI)

Customize barcode dimensions and print resolution. Standard 300 DPI for professional printing, 96 DPI for screen display. Adjustable width and height for label compatibility.

How to Generate Random Barcodes

[STEP 1] Select Barcode Format

Choose from EAN-13 (retail standard), UPC-A (North America), EAN-8 (compact), Code128 (alphanumeric), Code39, or ISBN-13 formats based on your use case.

[STEP 1] Configure Options

Set quantity (1-50), image format (PNG/SVG), size, and resolution. Enable options like show text, quiet zones, and custom colors for specific requirements.

[STEP 1] Generate & Download

Click generate to create barcodes with automatic checksum calculation. Download individual images or bulk export in ZIP format. Print-ready quality guaranteed.

Barcode Generation Best Practices

  • _ Use EAN-13 for retail products - globally recognized standard for consumer goods
  • _ Verify checksums before production - our generator auto-calculates but always test scans
  • _ Print at 300 DPI minimum - ensures reliable scanning in production environments
  • _ Include quiet zones - white space around barcodes improves scan reliability
  • _ Test with actual scanners - validate barcodes with your POS or inventory system before mass printing
  • _ Use Code128 for non-numeric data - supports letters and symbols for internal tracking

Technical Details: Barcode Generation Algorithm

Our barcode generator employs cryptographically secure random number generation with automatic checksum calculation following GS1 specifications. The system validates format constraints, generates random digits with uniform distribution, calculates check digits using modulo-10 algorithms, and renders barcodes using industry-standard encoding rules.

// EAN-13 Checksum Calculation (Modulo-10)
digits = [random 12 digits using CSPRNG]
sum = 0
for i = 0 to 11:
  weight = (i % 2 == 0) ? 1 : 3
  sum += digits[i] × weight
checksum = (10 - (sum % 10)) % 10
barcode = digits + checksum

// UPC-A Format (12 digits + checksum)
Number System Digit: 0-9
Manufacturer Code: 5 digits (CSPRNG)
Product Code: 5 digits (CSPRNG)
Check Digit: Modulo-10 calculation

// Code128 Encoding
Character Set: ASCII 0-127
Start Code: A, B, or C (auto-selected)
Data Encoding: Optimized subset switching
Checksum: Weighted modulo-103
Stop Code: Fixed terminator

Security: NIST SP 800-90A compliant CSPRNG
Validation: GS1 General Specifications v24

API Access for Developers

GET https://generate-random.org/api/v1/generate/barcodes
VIEW FULL API DOCUMENTATION →

Frequently Asked Questions

What barcode formats are supported? ▶
We support EAN-13 (European Article Number), EAN-8 (compact), UPC-A (Universal Product Code), UPC-E (compact UPC), Code128 (alphanumeric), Code39, and ISBN-13 formats. All formats include automatic checksum calculation and GS1 compliance validation.
Are the generated barcodes valid for retail use? ▶
The barcodes are technically valid with correct checksums, but for commercial retail use you must obtain official GS1 company prefixes and product codes. Our generator is perfect for testing, development, internal inventory, and non-retail applications.
What's the difference between EAN and UPC? ▶
EAN-13 (13 digits) is the global standard used worldwide, while UPC-A (12 digits) is primarily used in North America. Both are compatible and use similar checksum algorithms. EAN-13 can encode UPC-A by adding a leading zero. For mobile-friendly codes, try our QR code generator.
Can I use Code128 for alphanumeric data? ▶
Yes! Code128 supports the full ASCII character set (letters, numbers, symbols). It's ideal for internal tracking, warehouse management, and serial numbers. For pure numeric barcodes (product identification), use EAN-13 or UPC-A instead.