EAN-8 barcode generator
The short retail barcode for packs too small for an EAN-13. Type 7 digits and we add the check digit.
1. Content
2. Size and style
Bulk barcodes PRO
Make up to 500 barcodes in your current type and style. Each one is test-scanned, and the ZIP includes an index.csv with the results.
What is a EAN-8 barcode?
EAN-8 is the short version of EAN-13 for products too small for a full barcode, such as cosmetics, sweets or pens. It holds a GTIN-8: seven digits issued by GS1 plus a check digit.
Unlike EAN-13, an EAN-8 number isn't built from your company prefix. GS1 issues each one individually, and only when the product really can't fit an EAN-13.
Where it's used
- Lipsticks, pens, sweets and other small items
- Products where the printable area is tiny
- Internal codes for small stock items
How to make a EAN-8 barcode
Get your number
Apply to your GS1 office for an EAN-8 number for the specific product.
Enter 7 or 8 digits
Type 7 digits and we add the check digit, or all 8 and we check it.
Download and test
Download a PNG, or a vector file for packaging, and test a printed sample.
Sizing and printing a EAN-8 barcode
Standard size
At 100% the module is 0.33 mm and the symbol with margins is 26.73 × 21.31 mm. You can scale it from 80% to 200%.
Keep the quiet zones
Leave at least 7 modules on each side, about 2.3 mm at 100%.
Colors that scan
Dark bars on a light background. Avoid red, orange and yellow bars.
Match the printer
Choose a module width that's a whole number of printer dots.
Use a vector file for print
SVG, PDF and EPS stay sharp at any size, so packaging designers and print shops prefer them. For PNG, download at your printer's resolution and place it at 100%.
EAN-8 questions
How do I get an EAN-8 number?
From your national GS1 office. They issue EAN-8 numbers one at a time, when you can show that an EAN-13 won't fit on the pack.
Can I just shorten my EAN-13?
No. EAN-8 numbers are a separate pool, so dropping digits from an EAN-13 gives a different, possibly taken, number.
Is EAN-8 the same as UPC-E?
No. Both are short codes for small packs, but UPC-E is a compressed UPC-A, while EAN-8 has its own numbers.
Can I add an add-on to an EAN-8?
The format allows a 2 or 5 digit add-on, but it's rarely used on EAN-8. Only add one if your retailer asks.