Barcode Scanning

Check your barcode with a free scanning app

See what happens when someone scans your product, why a phone and a checkout give different results, and how to make sure your barcode scans the first time.

Which app should I use?

All three open in your phone’s browser, so you don’t need to download anything.

Zebra Barcode Scanner: see what your customers see
Best for: checking that your registered product details show up.
Searches BarcodesDatabase.org, IBN Verified, Amazon and UPCdatabase.org at once.
Open Zebra Scanner

ScanBarcode: check that your barcode reads
Best for: testing a printed sample before a full print run.
Scan any UPC-A, EAN-13 or QR code. If the number matches your certificate, it’s reading correctly.
Open ScanBarcode

2D Scanner: QR codes and GS1 Digital Link
Best for: packaging with a 2D barcode.
Reads standard and GS1 Digital Link barcodes, and shows the product links inside them (nutrition, sustainability, ethics, brand). What are 2D barcodes?
Open 2D Scanner

Tip: Add any of these to your home screen. iPhone: in Safari, tap Share → Add to Home Screen. Android: in Chrome, tap ⋮ → Install app or Add to Home screen.

Why doesn’t my product show up when I scan it?

Usually because it isn’t registered yet. That’s normal.

A barcode holds only a number, not a product name or price. Phone apps look that number up online, so if it isn’t listed, there’s nothing to show. How barcodes work.

Registration is optional and free with every retail barcode package from us. Register any time through the Customer Portal. What is barcode registration? Bought your barcodes elsewhere? We can register them for you.

Will my barcode work at a store checkout?

Yes. Registration makes no difference there.

Checkout scanners don’t use the internet. When a retailer first stocks your product, they add its name and price to their own system, and every scan after that finds it. How to use your barcode.

How do I make sure my barcode will scan?

Most problems come from the artwork, not the scanner. Before approving a print run, check:

• Size and white space: no smaller than 80%, with clear margins on each side. Sizes and quiet zones.
• Placement: a flat, smooth area away from folds and edges. On bottles and jars, turn it on its side. Where to put your barcode.
• Colour: dark bars on a light background. No red, orange or yellow bars.
• The number: check it with our GTIN Validator.

Then print a sample and scan it with one of the apps above.

Want certainty before a big print run? Get a Barcode Artwork Test. If a retailer has asked for proof, contact us, and we’ll help.

Where to go next

• How do I get a barcode?
• Barcodes for Amazon
• FAQ or contact us. We reply within one business day.

Buy retail barcodes. Delivered by email within minutes.