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Updated January 04, 2026

Barcode Generation

Barcodes are essential for efficient inventory management, point-of-sale operations, and product tracking. EquiBillBook automatically generates barcodes for items, ensuring accurate identification and streamlined operations.

Understanding Barcode Generation

EquiBillBook automatically generates barcodes based on:

  • Item SKU codes
  • Product identification numbers
  • System-generated unique identifiers
  • Custom barcode formats (if configured)

How Barcodes Are Generated

The barcode generation process:

  1. System uses the item's SKU code as the barcode value
  2. Barcode is generated in the configured format (Code 128, EAN-13, etc.)
  3. Barcode image is created for printing
  4. Barcode is displayed on labels and can be scanned

Barcode Formats

Common barcode formats supported:

  • Code 128: High-density alphanumeric barcode
  • EAN-13: European Article Number (13 digits)
  • UPC-A: Universal Product Code (12 digits)
  • Code 39: Alphanumeric barcode
  • QR Code: Two-dimensional barcode (if enabled)

Automatic Barcode Generation

When creating items:

  • Barcode is automatically generated from SKU code
  • No manual barcode entry required
  • Barcode is unique for each item/variation
  • Barcode is ready for printing on labels

Barcode on Labels

When generating labels:

  • Barcode is automatically included on labels
  • Barcode uses the item's SKU code
  • Barcode is properly formatted for scanning
  • Barcode size is optimized for label dimensions

Barcode Configuration

Configure barcode settings:

  • Barcode Type: Select barcode format
  • Barcode Size: Set height and width
  • Barcode Position: Where barcode appears on label
  • Show Barcode Value: Display numbers below barcode
  • Barcode Quality: Set resolution for printing

Barcode Size Settings

Adjust barcode dimensions:

  • Height: Vertical size of barcode
  • Width: Horizontal size (auto or fixed)
  • Scale: Overall size multiplier
  • Ensure barcode is large enough to scan
  • Fit barcode within label dimensions

Barcode Quality

For best scanning results:

  • Use appropriate barcode size
  • Ensure high print quality
  • Use proper label material
  • Avoid smudging or damage
  • Test barcode scanning after printing

SKU-Based Barcodes

Barcodes are generated from SKU codes:

  • Each SKU has a unique barcode
  • Barcode matches the SKU code
  • Variations have different barcodes
  • Barcode remains consistent for the item

Barcode Scanning

Generated barcodes can be scanned:

  • Using barcode scanners
  • Using mobile apps with barcode readers
  • At point of sale (POS)
  • For inventory management
  • For stock counting

Barcode on Different Documents

Barcodes appear on:

  • Item Labels: Product labels with barcodes
  • Sales Invoices: Barcode for invoice identification
  • Purchase Orders: Barcode for order tracking
  • Stock Reports: Barcode in inventory reports

Barcode Standards

Ensure barcodes meet standards:

  • Follow industry barcode formats
  • Maintain proper barcode dimensions
  • Ensure scannable quality
  • Use standard barcode types
  • Comply with retail requirements (if applicable)

Custom Barcode Formats

If custom formats are needed:

  • Configure barcode format in settings
  • Set up custom barcode rules
  • Ensure format is scannable
  • Test custom formats thoroughly

Barcode Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions:

  • Barcode not scanning:
    • Check barcode size (too small may not scan)
    • Verify print quality
    • Ensure barcode is not damaged
    • Test with different scanners
  • Barcode missing:
    • Check barcode generation settings
    • Verify SKU code exists
    • Ensure barcode is enabled in template
  • Wrong barcode value:
    • Verify SKU code is correct
    • Check barcode format settings
    • Ensure item is properly configured

Barcode Best Practices

  • Use consistent barcode format across all items
  • Ensure SKU codes are unique and standardized
  • Test barcode scanning after printing
  • Maintain proper barcode size for readability
  • Use high-quality printers for barcode printing
  • Protect labels from damage that affects scanning
  • Regularly verify barcode functionality

Barcode in Inventory Management

Barcodes help with:

  • Stock Counting: Quick scanning for inventory counts
  • Stock Transfers: Scan items for transfers
  • Stock Adjustments: Identify items quickly
  • Receiving: Scan items during receiving
  • Picking: Scan items for order fulfillment

Barcode in Sales

Barcodes enable:

  • POS Scanning: Quick item entry at point of sale
  • Invoice Creation: Scan items into invoices
  • Order Processing: Efficient order entry
  • Returns Processing: Quick return item identification

Barcode Printing

When printing barcodes:

  • Use appropriate label printers
  • Ensure high print resolution
  • Use quality label material
  • Test print before bulk printing
  • Verify barcode scans correctly

Barcode Maintenance

  • Regularly test barcode scanning
  • Replace damaged labels
  • Update barcodes if SKU codes change
  • Maintain barcode quality standards
  • Keep barcode format consistent

Barcode Standards Compliance

For retail or distribution:

  • Follow GS1 standards if required
  • Use EAN-13 or UPC for retail
  • Ensure barcode meets industry requirements
  • Register barcodes if necessary
  • Maintain barcode database

Barcode generation in EquiBillBook is automatic and seamless. Ensure your SKU codes are properly configured, and barcodes will be generated correctly for all your items, enabling efficient inventory and sales management.

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