One generator, many workflows
Which barcode type should you use?
Use Code 128 for flexible inventory, asset and internal labels. EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and UPC-E are common retail formats tied to assigned product identifiers. ITF-14 is used on cartons, while GS1-128 carries structured logistics data. ISBN and ISSN are publishing identifiers. Data Matrix, PDF417 and Aztec store more content in a compact 2D symbol.
Format-aware tools
More than black lines on a canvas
Rantey changes its validation rules and guidance with the selected symbology. It can calculate or verify modulo-10 retail check digits, build common GS1 Application Identifier data and compose the barcode into a practical product label with a title, SKU, price and footer note.
Supported barcode formats
| Format | Best for | Typical data |
|---|---|---|
| Code 128 / Code 39 | Inventory and assets | Letters and numbers |
| EAN / UPC | Retail products | Assigned numeric GTIN |
| GS1-128 | Logistics and traceability | GTIN, expiry, lot, serial |
| ITF-14 | Shipping cartons | 14-digit trade item number |
| ISBN / ISSN | Books and periodicals | Publishing identifier |
| Data Matrix / PDF417 / Aztec | Compact records and documents | Longer text or structured data |
A valid image is not an assigned product number
Rantey can produce a mathematically valid symbol and check digit, but it cannot allocate a legitimate GTIN, ISBN or ISSN. Retailers, marketplaces, libraries and logistics partners may require identifiers issued through GS1 or the relevant registration agency. Confirm their specifications before mass printing.
Frequently asked questions
Barcode generator FAQ
Which barcode formats can I create?+
Rantey supports Code 128, GS1-128, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, UPC-E, ISBN-13, ISSN, Code 39, ITF-14, Codabar, MSI, Pharmacode, Data Matrix, PDF417 and Aztec Code.
What information can a barcode contain?+
It depends on the symbology. Code 128 can hold general letters, numbers and control data. Retail EAN and UPC symbols use assigned numeric identifiers. GS1-128 can combine standardized Application Identifiers such as GTIN, expiry date, batch and serial number.
Can I invent an EAN or UPC number for a product?+
The generator can create a technically valid symbol and calculate a check digit, but it does not assign a legitimate retail identifier. Obtain official GTINs from the appropriate GS1 organization when a marketplace or retailer requires them.
Does Rantey validate barcode check digits?+
Yes. Numeric retail formats show length and check-digit guidance before rendering. When you enter the data portion, supported formats can calculate the final check digit automatically.
What is the GS1 label builder?+
It combines common GS1 Application Identifiers for GTIN (01), expiry date (17), batch or lot (10) and serial number (21), then renders a GS1-128 symbol. Your business remains responsible for correct identifiers and data semantics.
Can I make a product or inventory label?+
Yes. Add a title, SKU, price and note around the barcode, then download a high-resolution PNG label. The plain barcode remains available as SVG.
Are barcode values sent to a server?+
No. The barcode engine, validation and label composition run locally in your browser. Values you enter are not uploaded to Rantey.
Will every generated barcode scan after printing?+
Not automatically. Use dark bars on a light background, preserve quiet zones, avoid resizing distortion and print at sufficient resolution. Test the final physical label with the scanners used in your workflow.