Data rules
6 data digits (7 or 8 with number system and check digit)
- Length: 6–8 characters
- Character set: digits only
- Check digit: not used
- Quiet zone: 9 modules
Retail point of sale
UPC-E
UPC-E compresses a UPC-A code to six data digits for small packaging. Enter the code and download a scannable symbol.
Preview
Enter valid data to see the barcode.
Encoding happens entirely in your browser. This tool encodes numbers you already own — it does not issue or register GS1 company prefixes.
Printing notes
- UPC-E suppresses zeros from a UPC-A code so the symbol fits on small items such as cosmetics and confectionery.
- Only UPC-A codes with a suitable zero pattern can be compressed to UPC-E.
Workflow links
Related barcode formats
What is UPC-E?
UPC-E is the compressed, six-digit form of UPC-A. Zero-suppression rules remove runs of zeros from the full GTIN-12, producing a symbol roughly half the width — the reason it appears on small items such as cosmetics, sweets and single-serve drinks.
Scanners expand UPC-E back to its 12-digit UPC-A equivalent at the till, so the product record on file is always the full GTIN-12.
Frequently asked questions
Is this UPC-E generator free to use?
Yes. The UPC-E generator is free, has no signup and adds no watermark. The symbol is encoded in your browser, so the data you type is never uploaded to a server.
What file format should I download for printing UPC-E?
Download SVG for anything that will be printed. SVG is vector, so bar widths and the quiet zone stay exact at any size. PNG is fine for screens and slide decks, but never scale a PNG barcode up — enlarging it blurs the bar edges and scanners start failing.
Can every UPC-A be converted to UPC-E?
No. Only GTIN-12 numbers with the specific zero patterns defined by the standard can be compressed. If your number does not qualify, print UPC-A or EAN-13 instead.
Standards & references
This page follows the published specifications. The bodies that own them: