Barcode Explorer

What Is a Barcode?

A barcode is a machine-readable representation of data — typically a series of parallel lines (1D) or a matrix of squares (2D like QR codes). Barcodes encode product identifiers, tracking numbers, URLs, and other structured data that can be read instantly by scanners, cameras, and smartphones. They are the backbone of inventory management, retail checkout, shipping, and asset tracking worldwide.

Generate and Scan in One Place

The Barcode Explorer combines generation and scanning into a single tool. Generate barcodes in 15 formats — Code 128, UPC-A, EAN-13, Code 39, ITF-14, QR Code, and more — with automatic check digit calculation, custom label text, and sequential sheet printing on Avery label templates. Then switch to scan mode to decode barcodes from uploaded images or directly from your device camera, with real-time detection on iPhone and Android.

Batch Scanning and Export

Upload an image containing multiple barcodes and the explorer detects and decodes them all at once. Scan results accumulate across multiple images, and you can export the full list as CSV or copy values to clipboard. Found a barcode you need to reproduce? Click "Generate this barcode" to switch to generate mode with the format and value pre-filled — ready to save, print, or add labels.

Automatic Product Lookup

When you scan a UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-13, or EAN-8 barcode, the explorer automatically looks it up against the Open Food Facts, Open Beauty Facts, and Open Products Facts community databases. Hits return product name, brand, image, category, quantity, and countries of sale. Every scan also shows the GS1 prefix — the first three digits of the barcode that identify the country of the issuing GS1 member organization. Coverage is strongest for grocery, beverage, cosmetics, and common consumer goods; hardware, private-label, and industrial SKUs often aren't in the public databases yet, in which case the panel shows country-of-issue info and a suggestion to get in touch for help identifying unknown items. Auto-lookup can be toggled off from the camera controls if you prefer a quieter scan experience.

Common Barcode Formats

UPC-A is the standard 12-digit barcode on retail products in North America. EAN-13 is its international counterpart. Code 128 is the workhorse of shipping and logistics, supporting the full ASCII character set. ITF-14 appears on shipping cartons and cases. QR Codes encode URLs, text, and structured data in a 2D matrix scannable by any smartphone.