EAN-8 Barcode Generator – Compact Barcodes for Small Products
What Is an EAN-8 Barcode?
EAN-8 is a shortened version of the EAN-13 barcode, designed specifically for products where packaging space is too small to accommodate the full 13-digit code. With only 8 digits, the barcode is approximately 67% of the width of an EAN-13, making it ideal for items like chewing gum packs, lipstick tubes, pencils and small confectionery wrappers.
Like EAN-13, EAN-8 is managed by GS1 and uses the same modulo-10 check digit algorithm. However, EAN-8 numbers are allocated directly by national GS1 organisations rather than derived from a company prefix, which means manufacturers must apply for each EAN-8 number individually.
EAN-8 barcodes are read by the same scanners that handle EAN-13 and UPC codes, so there is no need for special hardware at the point of sale.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Digits | 8 (7 data + 1 check digit) |
| Character set | Numeric only (0–9) |
| Structure | GS1 prefix (2–3 digits) + item reference + check digit |
| Check digit | Modulo 10 (weights 3-1-3-1-3-1-3) |
| Symbology type | Linear (1D), continuous |
| Nominal size | 21.64 mm × 17.05 mm (at 100% magnification) |
| Encoding | Start guard + 4 left-hand digits + centre guard + 4 right-hand digits + end guard |
The reduced digit count means fewer unique product numbers are available in the EAN-8 space. GS1 therefore restricts EAN-8 allocation to products that genuinely cannot carry an EAN-13 barcode due to physical size constraints.
When to Use EAN-8
- • Small consumer goods: Confectionery, cosmetics, individual pharmaceutical packages and miniature bottles where label real estate is limited.
- • Cigarette packs: Many tobacco products use EAN-8 due to the constrained space on narrow packaging.
- • Coupons and vouchers: EAN-8 prefixes 98 and 99 are reserved for coupon use in certain countries.
- • In-store products: Prefixes 0 and 20–29 can be used for internal store applications like weighed goods.
How to Create an EAN-8 Barcode
- 1. Open the Barcode Generator and select EAN-8 from the format list.
- 2. Enter 7 digits (the check digit is calculated automatically) or all 8 digits including the check digit.
- 3. Configure bar height and module width to fit your packaging layout.
- 4. Download and test the barcode with a scanner to verify correct data before printing.
The entire process runs in your browser – no server upload, no registration. Generate as many EAN-8 barcodes as you need.
EAN-8 vs EAN-13 – Choosing the Right Format
The decision between EAN-8 and EAN-13 is primarily driven by packaging size. GS1 recommends using EAN-13 whenever physically possible, since the larger number space provides more unique identifiers and includes your company prefix for traceability.
EAN-8 should only be used when the total printable area on the product is less than approximately 40 cm² and an EAN-13 barcode at the minimum 80% magnification would not fit with the required quiet zones.
If your product is sold only domestically and space is tight, you might also consider applying for an EAN-8 restricted to your national market. For international distribution, EAN-13 remains the standard.
Related Topics
Create Your EAN-8 Barcode Now
Create your EAN-8 barcode now – free, no sign-up required.
→ Go to Barcode Generator