What is UPC-E?

UPC-E is the short version of UPC-A, for small packages such as soda cans, candy bars and cosmetics. It drops zeros from a 12-digit UPC-A number, so the barcode holds only six digits between its guard bars, with the number system digit (0 or 1) printed to the left and the check digit to the right. Scanners expand it back into the full UPC-A number, so a product has the same number whichever of the two barcodes it carries. Only UPC-A numbers with enough zeros in the right places have a UPC-E form.

Tool description

Enter the six digits and the tool draws the barcode with number system 0, calculating the check digit from the full UPC-A number. To use number system 1, or to check a number you already have, enter all eight digits: the number system digit, the six digits and the check digit. A wrong check digit shows an error instead of a barcode. Change the bar and background colors, hide the digits if you don't need them, and download the barcode as a PNG, JPG or WebP image.

Features

  • Check digit - calculated from the expanded UPC-A number, or checked when you enter 8 digits
  • Number systems 0 and 1 - 0 when you enter 6 digits, or the first of 8 digits
  • Standard layout - the number system and check digits outside the bars
  • Custom colors - any color for the bars and the background
  • Image download - PNG, JPG or WebP

Tips

  • For products sold in stores, use the UPC-E form of a number from GS1 US or GS1 Canada: checkouts look products up by the number.
  • Print the barcode in dark ink on a light background, and don't make it much smaller than on ordinary packaging.