GS1 Barcode Generator Guide: Single Codes and One-Code-Per-Product

GS1 Barcode Generator Guide: Single Codes and One-Code-Per-Product

Whether you need a single EAN-13 for a new product or thousands of unique codes for anti-counterfeiting, the ElagentPak GS1 Barcode Generator gets it done in the browser — no installation, no login. This guide walks through both modes: single barcode and batch serialization.

Mode 1: Generate a Single Barcode

Open the tool and stay on the Single Barcode tab. Then follow these steps:

  1. Pick the barcode type: choose from EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128, GS1-128, ITF-14, Data Matrix or GS1 Data Matrix.
  2. Enter the data: type the number or text to encode. For EAN-13, UPC-A and ITF-14 you can switch on Auto check digit so the tool fills in the final digit for you.
  3. Build a GS1 string (optional): for GS1-128 or GS1 Data Matrix, use the Application Identifier builder to fill in GTIN (01), serial (21), batch (10) and expiry (17), then click Compose.
  4. Adjust the look: change scale, height, bar color, text color and background to match your label.
  5. Download: export as PNG or SVG.

Mode 2: One-Code-per-Product Batch

Switch to the Batch Serialization tab to generate many unique codes at once. This is the mode for traceability and anti-counterfeiting.

  1. Choose the barcode type and enter a prefix — for example a GTIN like (01)0690123456789(21).
  2. Pick the serial mode:
    • Sequential: set a start value, step and zero-padding. Codes go 000001, 000002, 000003 and so on.
    • Random: choose a character set and length for unpredictable serials.
  3. Set the quantity and click Generate Batch.
  4. Export: download a PNG layout sheet, a CSV list of all codes, or individual PNGs.

Tips for Traceability

  • Keep a fixed GTIN: the product type stays the same; only the serial changes per item.
  • Add batch and expiry: use (10) and (17) so every code carries production batch and expiry date.
  • Export the CSV: sequential codes are reproducible, but if you use random serials, save the CSV right away — random codes cannot be regenerated later.

Which Format Should You Pick?

If the code will be scanned at a retail checkout, use EAN-13 (or UPC-A in North America). For cartons and outer cases, use ITF-14. For serialized items, batch and expiry in one symbol, use GS1-128; for small packages, GS1 Data Matrix.

Get Started

Head to the GS1 Barcode Generator and generate your first code in under a minute. The tool is free to use online — if you run into anything, send us a note through the site's feedback entry.