Do barcode symbols need to be a particular size?

Yes - there are global guidelines on the ideal size for each type of barcode symbol.

The target size for an EAN 13 barcode symbol is 37.29 mm wide and 27.85 mm high.
An ITF 14 barcode symbol should be 142.75 mm wide and 32 mm high.

Technical specifications for barcode symbols

For further details on barcode symbol specifications including X-dimensions and quiet zones please see the following pages:

EAN 13 specifications

ITF 14 specifications

Useful Guide to Creating a Barcode:

For answers to all the common questions about barcodes - how they are composed, what size and colour they should be and where they should be placed on a product, download a copy of the GS1 Ireland Express Guide to Retail Barcodes - an introductory guide to GS1-standard barcodes for products and outer cases.

Apply for a barcode

Join the thousands of Irish businesses who trust GS1 for their barcodes.

Barcode Manager

Allocate barcode numbers, generate symbols and share product & GTIN data with our trusted and secure online tool.

Barcode Types

The barcodes you use are built on our system of standardised identification types. These are most commonly used for product, shipment and location identification.

Barcode Costs

Barcode Licence Fees are based on a scale in accordance with company size (determined by your annual turnover or estimated turnover for new start-ups).