ISBN Barcode Generator

Generate the correct EAN barcode for any ISBN number. This tool creates Bookland EAN barcodes used on book covers for retail scanning and inventory.

ISBN Number

Format:

Auto DetectISBN-10ISBN-13

Add Price Supplement (5-digit addon)

Enter an ISBN to generate a Bookland EAN barcode

Try Examples

About ISBN Barcodes

ISBN barcodes use the Bookland EAN format, which is an EAN-13 barcode with a special prefix (978 or 979) added to the ISBN. This allows books to be scanned at retail point-of-sale systems worldwide.

ISBN-10

Older format, 10 digits. Automatically converted to ISBN-13 with 978 prefix.

ISBN-13

Current standard, 13 digits starting with 978 or 979.

Price Addon Codes

The 5-digit price addon encodes the suggested retail price. The first digit indicates the currency, and the remaining 4 digits represent the price.

5XXXX

USD ($)

6XXXX

CAD ($)

4XXXX

EUR (€)

3XXXX

GBP (£)

Example: 52995 = USD $29.95

How the ISBN Barcode Generator Works

Our ISBN barcode generator creates retail-ready barcodes for books following the ISBN-13 standard. The tool converts ISBN numbers into properly formatted EAN-13 barcodes with the required 978 or 979 prefix, enabling books to be sold through bookstores and online retailers worldwide.

ISBN Barcode Generation Process

Enter your 10-digit or 13-digit ISBN number
The tool validates the ISBN format and check digit
ISBN-10 numbers are converted to ISBN-13 format
EAN-13 barcode is generated with proper encoding
Optional price add-on can be included (5-digit supplement)
Download print-ready barcode for book cover placement

Since 2007, all ISBNs are 13 digits and compatible with the EAN-13 barcode system used in retail. The generator handles both legacy ISBN-10 and current ISBN-13 formats, automatically converting and validating as needed. Price add-on barcodes (EAN-5) can be generated for suggested retail pricing.

Common Use Cases

Self-Publishing

Generate barcodes for independently published books to enable distribution through bookstores and online retailers.

Small Press Publishing

Create professional barcodes for small press titles without expensive design software or services.

Book Cover Design

Provide properly sized barcodes to cover designers for inclusion in print-ready book cover files.

Reprint Updates

Generate new barcodes when updating book editions, prices, or distribution channels.

Multi-Format Publishing

Create separate barcodes for different formats (hardcover, paperback, audio) of the same title.

International Distribution

Generate globally compatible EAN-13 barcodes for books sold in international markets.

What to Know Before Using This Tool

ISBN Requirements

ISBN barcodes require valid ISBN numbers obtained from your national ISBN agency:

United States: Bowker (myidentifiers.com)
United Kingdom: Nielsen ISBN Store
Canada: Library and Archives Canada
Australia: Thorpe-Bowker
Other countries: Contact your national ISBN agency

Barcode Placement Standards

Position: Bottom right corner of back cover
Minimum size: 2.00 x 1.25 inches (51 x 32 mm)
Clear space: 0.125 inch (3mm) quiet zone on all sides
Color: Black bars on white background for best scanning
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum for print production

Price Add-On Barcodes

The 5-digit price add-on (EAN-5) encodes suggested retail price. Format: 5 followed by price in cents. Example: $24.99 = 52499. Price add-ons are optional but commonly used in North American book retail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy an ISBN?

Yes, each book format requires a unique ISBN purchased from your national ISBN agency. Some print-on-demand services provide free ISBNs, but you won't be listed as the publisher of record.

What is the difference between ISBN-10 and ISBN-13?

ISBN-10 was the standard before 2007. ISBN-13 added a 978 or 979 prefix and uses EAN-13 check digit calculation. All new books use ISBN-13. This tool converts ISBN-10 to ISBN-13 automatically.

Can I use the same ISBN for ebook and print?

No. Each format (hardcover, paperback, ebook, audio) requires a separate ISBN. Ebook platforms like Amazon Kindle may use ASIN instead of ISBN.

Where should the barcode be placed on my book?

Standard placement is the bottom right corner of the back cover. Ensure adequate white space around the barcode. Do not place over images, dark backgrounds, or book edges.

Do I need a price add-on barcode?

Price add-ons are optional but recommended for books sold through traditional bookstores. Online retailers often display price separately. If your price may change, omit the price add-on.

What file format should I provide to my printer?

Provide high-resolution PNG or PDF files at 300 DPI or higher. Ensure the barcode is at final print size. Most print-on-demand services have specific barcode requirements in their guidelines.

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