Quick answer
Code 128 supports variable-length letters, digits, and control characters, making it useful for logistics and internal identifiers. EAN-13 represents exactly 13 digits and is intended for globally assigned retail product numbers. They are different data systems, so converting between them is not generally lossless or meaningful.
How to do it
- Use EAN-13 only for a valid retail GTIN-13.
- Use Code 128 for internal alphanumeric identifiers and logistics data.
- Validate the content and print requirements before generating labels.
Character and length rules
EAN-13 accepts 12 data digits plus one calculated check digit. Code 128 selects among character sets to encode a broader range efficiently and includes its own symbol checksum. A product name or arbitrary URL cannot simply be placed into EAN-13.
Choose based on the receiving system
Retail scanners and marketplaces expect licensed GTIN data, not merely a graphic with 13 digits. Warehouses may define their own Code 128 structure or use GS1-128 application identifiers. Confirm the specification used by the organization that will scan the label.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Inventing an EAN-13 number for a retail product.
- Assuming the bars alone define business meaning.
- Promising universal QR-to-barcode conversion.
Try the related tool
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