ITF-14 barcode generator
This ITF-14 barcode generator builds the fourteen-digit code that goes on shipping cartons and cases, not the individual items inside them. Enter 13 digits and the 14th, the check digit, is added automatically.
type to generate
The barcode for cases, not the items inside them
Think of an ITF-14 barcode as a wrapper: it doesn't replace the code on the product inside, it sits on the case around a dozen or more of them so a warehouse scanner can count cases without opening one.
What the 14 digits mean
The first digit is the indicator: 1-8 marks a fixed packaging level such as a case or a pallet, and 9 marks a variable-measure item, like a case of cheese sold by weight. The next twelve digits are the case's own GTIN base, and the last is a check digit the generator works out for you.
The example reuses our EAN-13 example's number: indicator 1 for a case, wrapped around twelve fictional cartons of the same product.
- 1 the packaging-level indicator - here, a case.
- 201234567890 the case's GTIN base, built from a real product's own number.
- 0 the check digit, calculated from the thirteen digits before it.
Type 13 digits, get a complete ITF-14 barcode
Why ITF-14 needs bearer bars
ITF-14 uses Interleaved 2 of 5, which packs digits in pairs and has no built-in error protection at the edges, so a thick bearer bar frames the whole code to stop a rough print or a warped carton from producing a false read.
A code printed straight onto corrugated board, no border.
The same code framed top and bottom (label) or on all four sides (printed straight onto the case).
Corrugated board flexes and print spreads; the bar keeps every line the right width so a scanner still reads it.
Sources
Checked September 2026
Packaging-level conventions vary by company; confirm your indicator digit scheme with your GS1 member organisation.
ITF-14 barcode questions
Yes - shipping container barcode is just a common name for it, because it rides on the case or carton, not the item inside.
No - it's built for warehouse and logistics scanners tracking cases, and most retail tills aren't set up to read it.
Not a universal one: 1-8 mark different packaging levels a company sets for itself, and only 9 has a fixed meaning, variable-measure trade items.
A top-and-bottom bearer bar is still standard practice for labels; printing straight onto corrugated board needs bars on all four sides.
Need a QR code instead?
Make a QR code for a link, WiFi, contact card and more - styled, free, and ready to download.