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Barcode guides – all tutorials at a glance

From the basics to special topics: these guides help you choose the right barcode, create it correctly, print it cleanly and scan it reliably.

How to create a barcode – step-by-step guide

Create a barcode in a few steps: choose a type, enter a value, adjust the design and download as PNG, SVG or PDF – for free.

EAN vs. UPC explained simply: structure, number of digits, regions and when to use which barcode for your products.

GTIN explained simply: what the Global Trade Item Number is, how it relates to EAN/UPC and where to get one.

Barcode types compared: which code fits retail, logistics, books, pharma, WiFi or payments? A practical decision guide.

Print barcodes correctly: resolution, size, quiet zone, contrast and material. Make your codes scan reliably every time.

How big does a barcode need to be? Quiet zone, minimum size, DPI and contrast – so your barcode scans reliably.

Data Matrix or QR code? Differences in capacity, minimum size, error correction and typical use cases – explained clearly.

Selling products online: why you need a GTIN/EAN, where to get one and how to turn it into the right barcode.

Scan QR codes and barcodes with your smartphone: with the camera, without an app, on iOS and Android – plus troubleshooting tips.

What GS1-128 can do: structure, application identifiers like (01) GTIN, (10) batch and (17) expiry, FNC1 and typical logistics uses.

Print barcode labels yourself: A4 label sheets (Avery & co.), the right resolution, alignment and tips against misaligned printing.

Encode serial numbers and batches in barcodes: sequential numbers, GS1 application identifiers (10)/(21) and batch generation.