# Barcode Types Explained: EAN, UPC, Code 128, and ITF-14

> Not all barcodes are the same. Here's which symbology to use for retail, cartons, and internal labels — and how to generate any of them for free.

- URL: https://www.pyalm.com/blog/barcode-types-explained
- Author: Fadhil Abdulla
- Category: Free Tools
- Published: 2026-06-12
- Updated: 2026-06-12

---

## Different jobs, different barcodes

Choosing the right barcode symbology avoids scanning problems down the line. The free [Barcode Generator](https://www.pyalm.com/free-tools/barcode-generator) supports the main types and downloads a print-ready PNG.

## The common types

- **EAN-13** — the standard retail product barcode worldwide (12–13 digits).
- **EAN-8** — a shorter version for small packages.
- **UPC-A** — the North American retail standard (11–12 digits).
- **ITF-14** — for outer cartons and cases, built on a 14-digit GTIN.
- **Code 128** — flexible, encodes letters and numbers; common for shipping and internal labels.
- **Code 39** — an older industrial format.

## Retail vs internal use

For products scanned at a retail till you'll need a GTIN licensed from GS1 and an EAN-13 or UPC-A barcode. For internal stock, asset, and shipping labels, Code 128 paired with your own [SKU codes](https://www.pyalm.com/free-tools/sku-generator) is usually the right choice.

## Pharma and serialization

Regulated products often need a 2D GS1 DataMatrix instead — for UAE Tatmeen, use the [Tatmeen DataMatrix Generator](https://www.pyalm.com/free-tools/tatmeen-datamatrix-generator).

[Use the free Barcode Generator](https://www.pyalm.com/free-tools/barcode-generator) | [SKU Generator](https://www.pyalm.com/free-tools/sku-generator)