EAN-8 Structure
EAN-8 consists of:
- First 2-3 digits: GS1 prefix (allocated by GS1 Global Office)
- Next 4-5 digits: Item reference (assigned by the company)
- Last digit: Check digit (calculated automatically)
Common EAN-8 Example
Small Product Example
EAN-8 vs EAN-13 Comparison
| Feature | EAN-8 | EAN-13 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8 digits | 13 digits |
| Primary Use | Small products | Standard retail |
| Physical Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Data Capacity | Limited | More extensive |
| Availability | Restricted, special application | Widely available |
| Check Digit | Yes, 1 digit | Yes, 1 digit |
EAN-8 Barcode Generator: Ideal for Small Retail Products
The EAN-8 (European Article Number 8) is a shortened version of the standard EAN-13 barcode, designed specifically for small retail products where space is limited. Our free online EAN-8 generator allows you to create standards-compliant barcodes instantly, perfect for small packages, cosmetics, confectionery, and other products with limited labeling space.
What is an EAN-8 Barcode?
EAN-8 is a compressed barcode format used internationally for marking small retail items where an EAN-13 barcode would be too large to fit. Each EAN-8 barcode consists of 8 digits: the first 2-3 digits represent the GS1 prefix assigned by the GS1 Global Office, followed by 4-5 digits that identify the product, and a final check digit that's calculated automatically to ensure scanning accuracy.
When to Use EAN-8 Instead of EAN-13
EAN-8 barcodes are specifically designed for products where space constraints make it difficult to use the standard EAN-13 format. This includes small cosmetic items, candy bars, chewing gum, small stationery items, and other products with limited packaging space. Due to their reduced length, EAN-8 codes are much more restricted in availability and typically require special application to your local GS1 organization, which will determine if your product qualifies for an EAN-8 assignment.
How to Create an EAN-8 Barcode
Using our tool, you can generate an EAN-8 barcode in seconds. Simply enter 7 digits (the 8th check digit will be calculated automatically), customize the appearance if desired, and download your high-quality barcode image. For official product registration, you'll need to obtain a genuine EAN-8 number from your local GS1 organization.
EAN-8 Technical Specifications
EAN-8 barcodes follow specific technical standards to ensure reliable scanning across all retail environments. The symbology includes guard patterns (the longer bars at the beginning, middle, and end), data bars that encode the actual digits, and a specific algorithm for calculating the check digit. Our generator handles all these technical details automatically to ensure your barcodes are fully compliant with international standards.
Global Recognition and Compatibility
Like their EAN-13 counterparts, EAN-8 barcodes are internationally recognized and can be scanned by point-of-sale systems worldwide. This global compatibility makes them ideal for small products sold in international markets. While less common than EAN-13, EAN-8 barcodes are still widely supported by modern scanning equipment and retail systems.