EAN-8 Barcode Generator
EAN-8 is a compact version of the retail barcode, made for packages too small to carry the longer EAN-13. Enter the seven digits, and the generator adds the eighth, a check digit calculated with the same rule as the longer code.
What an EAN-8 barcode holds
An EAN-8 symbol encodes an eight-digit GTIN-8 number. Seven digits carry the information and the eighth is a check digit calculated with the mod-10 method that GS1 uses for its other retail codes. The short number has less room: the GS1 prefix and the item reference share seven digits, which leaves far fewer item references than a 13-digit number.
The rule is the same as for EAN-13: the weights 3 and 1 are applied from the rightmost of the seven data digits. For example, 9638507 becomes 96385074. Enter eight digits instead and the editor checks the last one, reporting the expected digit when it is wrong.
The generator never chooses the digits. A short code only makes sense when the number has been issued to you. Whether your organization can use EAN-8 at all depends on GS1 rules and on how your numbering is managed, so settle that before you redesign a pack around one.
The check digit only proves that the seven digits form a valid pattern. It cannot tell you that they belong to the right product, so compare the value with the source once more before printing, because a number copied by hand is a frequent source of errors on small labels.
How to make an EAN-8 barcode in three steps
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01
Choose EAN-8 and enter the digits
Pick EAN-8 in Type, then enter seven digits in Value. Use an example fills 9638507, which the preview completes to 96385074. Digits only, with no spaces or hyphens.
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02
Set the colors and the bar size
Bar color and Background control the print colors. Size sets the width of each narrow bar, and that matters most here: a small pack leaves little room, so choose a Size that keeps the bars readable. Keep Show the number on unless the label already prints the digits.
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03
Preview, check and download
Scan the preview with a phone camera or a reader at the distance the label will be scanned from. Download SVG for label printers that accept vector files, or PNG, JPG or WEBP for artwork and documents.
Where EAN-8 barcodes are used
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Confectionery and small snacks
Small wrappers have room for a short code only. An EAN-8 on the wrapper lets a till record the item without a full-size label on the pack.
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Sample sachets and travel sizes
A sachet or travel bottle can carry an EAN-8 when its packaging is too narrow for the longer symbol. Check the layout at the printed size before you approve it.
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Small accessories
Cables, adaptors and small tools are often sold in packs too small for a 13-digit code. A short symbol keeps the pack clean and still reads at the till.
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Small boxes of health supplies
Plasters and dressings in small boxes can carry a short code. Keep the printed symbol clear of seal lines and folds, so the scanner reads a flat surface.
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Blister cards and stationery
Pens, pencils and screws sold in blister packs usually carry the code on the card behind the window. Print the symbol on the card where the blister does not cover it.
Tips for EAN-8 labels that stay readable
- Confirm the number range first
- An EAN-8 is only correct when its number range is allocated to you. Ask your GS1 member organization whether a short code is available before you redesign a pack around one.
- Plan the bar width
- Small packs force the symbol into a small area. Lay out the artwork with the real Size value, print a proof, and scan it before you approve the design.
- Do not stretch the symbol
- Keep the proportions the generator produces. Stretching the SVG in a design tool changes the width of the bars and can stop the code from scanning.
- Watch the contrast on foil
- Small packs are often printed on foil or glossy film, where reflections reduce contrast. Test a print on the exact material, and use a dark bar color on a matte light background if the scan is weak.
EAN-8 questions
Can I use EAN-8 for any product?
Not automatically. The symbol is valid, but the number must be allocated for your use. Confirm the rules with your GS1 member organization or with the team that manages your numbering.
How is EAN-8 different from EAN-13?
EAN-8 carries eight digits and EAN-13 carries thirteen. The EAN-8 is smaller, which suits small packs, but it has room for far fewer item numbers.
Does the generator add the check digit?
Yes, when you enter seven digits. Enter eight and the editor checks the eighth digit, and it reports the expected digit if the value is wrong.
Can I enter a longer number?
No. An EAN-8 takes exactly seven or eight digits. For longer product numbers, use EAN-13 or another symbology that fits the data.
What size should the bars be?
Keep the bars tall enough for the scanner to find the top and bottom edges, and keep Size high enough that the narrow bars do not blur. Print a test before committing to a full run.
Do the digits have to print under the bars?
A scanner does not need them, but people do when a scan fails. With Show the number on, the digits appear under the symbol, which helps with manual entry at a counter.
Can I print the code on a sticker?
Yes. Download SVG and send it to a label printer, or use PNG at the size you need. Check the printed size on the sticker, because curved or small surfaces can change how the bars look.
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