UPC-E Barcode Generator

What UPC-E is used for

UPC-E carries the same GTIN-12 as a UPC-A, written with zeros removed so the symbol is roughly half as wide. Scanners expand it back to the full 12-digit number, so your product data stays the same. It is used mainly in the US and Canada on beverages, confectionery and other small items.

The underlying UPC-A number must come from a GS1 US or GS1 Canada licence, and GS1 typically assigns UPC-E-eligible numbers on request. The app validates numbers; it does not issue them.

Zero suppression rules

Only number system 0 (and 1 in some systems) can be compressed. The six encoded digits depend on where the zeros sit in the UPC-A manufacturer code (M) and item number (I):

• Manufacturer code ending in 000, 100 or 200 with item number 00000–00999: digits M1 M2 I3 I4 I5 M3.
• Manufacturer code ending in 00 (300–900) with item number 00000–00099: M1 M2 M3 I4 I5 3.
• Manufacturer code ending in 0 with item number 00000–00009: M1 M2 M3 M4 I5 4.
• Manufacturer code without trailing zero with item number 00005–00009: M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 I5 (5–9).
• The check digit is calculated on the expanded UPC-A, and together with the number system it is encoded in the parity pattern of the six digits rather than as its own bars.

Size and printing

UPC-E is 51 modules wide with a 9X quiet zone on the left and 7X on the right. At 100% (X = 0.33 mm) it is about 22.11 mm wide including quiet zones. Use dark bars on a light background and keep magnification between 80% and 200%.

How to make it

1. Select UPC-E in the barcode generator.
2. Enter the full 12-digit UPC-A or the 7 to 8 digit UPC-E form.
3. Check the validation message: it confirms whether the number can be zero-suppressed and completes the check digit.
4. Export SVG, PDF or PNG at the suggested size.
5. Scan the test print and confirm it expands to the expected UPC-A.

Frequently asked questions