Barcode Labeling in the UK: Regulations, EAN-13 & ITF-14 Barcodes Explained



Barcodes are a critical part of modern retail, logistics, and inventory management, ensuring seamless tracking, scanning, and product identification. In the UK, businesses must comply with strict barcode labeling regulations to avoid scanning errors, retail rejections, or logistical issues.


At Reekaz Labels, we not only supply high-quality barcode labels, but we also use Axicon barcode verifiers to check barcode compliance, ensuring they meet UK and GS1 standards. This guide will cover the UK barcode labeling regulations, focusing on EAN-13 and ITF-14 barcodes, including their minimum size requirements, industry standards, and where to buy them—plus how our barcode verification services can help prevent costly errorsIf you’re in the packaging or label industry, you've probably heard the term flexographic printing (often referred to as flexo). But what exactly is flexography, and why is it such an important technology in the world of labeling?


In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of flexographic printing, how it works, and why it’s one of the most popular and reliable methods for producing high-quality labels. Whether you’re a business owner in need of labels or simply curious about the process, this guide will help you understand the role flexo printing plays in modern label production.



Understanding Barcode Labeling in the UK





Barcode labeling in the UK follows international standards, mainly set by GS1 UK, the organization responsible for issuing unique barcode numbers to businesses. These standards ensure that barcodes are:


Scannable at checkout and warehouse systems

Correctly sized for readability

Unique to prevent duplication issues

Compliant with retailer and logistics requirements


Why Barcode Verification Matters


Even if a barcode looks correct, it might not scan properly due to poor print quality, incorrect contrast, or size issues. That’s why barcode verification is essential before products reach the market.


At Reekaz Labels, we use Axicon barcode verifiers to check:


Print quality and clarity

Correct barcode size and proportions

GS1 compliance for EAN-13 and ITF-14 barcodes


This ensures that your barcodes will be accepted by retailers, distributors, and warehouses, preventing costly reprints or product rejections.



EAN-13 Barcodes: The Standard for Retail Products





What is an EAN-13 Barcode?


The EAN-13 (European Article Number) is the most commonly used barcode in UK retail. It contains 13 digits, which uniquely identify a product and allow it to be scanned at the point of sale.


Most supermarkets, e-commerce platforms (Amazon, eBay), and physical stores require an EAN-13 barcode for product sales and inventory tracking.


EAN-13 Barcode Size Requirements


To ensure proper scanning, EAN-13 barcodes must adhere to minimum size requirements:


Standard Size: 37.29mm (width) × 25.93mm (height) Minimum Size (80% scaling): 29.83mm × 20.74mm Maximum Size (200% scaling): 74.58mm × 51.86mm


Avoid resizing below 80%, as it can cause scanning issues in retail environments.


Where Are EAN-13 Barcodes Used?


Retail products (food, cosmetics, electronics, books, etc.) Supermarkets and online stores (Amazon, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Boots, etc.)

E-commerce packaging for direct-to-consumer sales



ITF-14 Barcodes: Used for Bulk Packaging & Warehousing





What is an ITF-14 Barcode?


The ITF-14 (Interleaved 2 of 5) barcode is mainly used for outer packaging and cartons, allowing wholesalers, warehouses, and distribution centers to scan entire cases or shipments instead of individual products.


Unlike the EAN-13, which is meant for consumer sales, ITF-14 is not scanned at checkout. Instead, it helps with logistics, bulk inventory management, and pallet tracking.


ITF-14 Barcode Size Requirements


ITF-14 barcodes follow strict size guidelines to ensure accurate scanning in warehouses:


Standard Size: 142.75mm (width) × 32mm (height)

Minimum Size (X-dimension 50% scaling): 71.37mm × 16mm Maximum Size (X-dimension 200% scaling): 285.5mm × 64mm


ITF-14 barcodes require a quiet zone (white space) around the barcode, typically at least 10mm on each side, to ensure proper readability.


Where Are ITF-14 Barcodes Used?


Bulk shipping cartons and cases

Warehouse and distribution tracking

Logistics and inventory management



UK Barcode Labeling Regulations & Barcode Verification





1. Get a Legally Registered Barcode


All barcodes must be GS1-registered to ensure uniqueness and global recognition. GS1 UK is the official source for obtaining valid EAN-13 and ITF-14 barcodes.


2. Ensure Proper Barcode Sizing


Retailers and warehouses have strict barcode size requirements. Avoid resizing below 80% of the standard dimensions, as this can cause scanning errors.


3. Maintain Print Quality


Barcodes should be printed with high contrast (black on white background) and a resolution of 300 dpi or higher to ensure readability.


4. Use the Right Placement


EAN-13: Placed on the back or bottom of product packaging, away from folds or curved surfaces.

ITF-14: Placed on two opposite sides of outer cartons for easy scanning in warehouses.


5. Verify Your Barcode Before Printing


Before sending your products to retailers, verify that the barcode is scannable and meets GS1 standards.


At Reekaz Labels, we use Axicon barcode verifiers to:


Check barcode readability

Detect errors before printing

Ensure compliance with GS1 UK regulations


This prevents retail rejections, scanning issues, and unnecessary reprints, saving your business time and money.



Where to Buy Barcodes in the UK





For GS1-approved EAN-13 and ITF-14 barcodes, consider these options:


1. GS1 UK (Official Source)


Website: www.gs1uk.org

Provides official EAN-13 and ITF-14 numbers for UK businesses.


2. Accredited Barcode Resellers


Some resellers offer pre-registered barcodes, but ensure they are GS1-verified to avoid issues with retailers.


3. Reekaz Labels: Barcode Printing & Verification


At Reekaz Labels, we provide:


High-quality barcode label printing

Axicon barcode verification for compliance

Custom sizes and formats for EAN-13 & ITF-14



A barcode that fails to scan can lead to rejected shipments, lost sales, and retailer fines. That’s why barcode verification is a must before printing.

At Reekaz Labels, we use Axicon barcode verifiers to ensure every barcode we print meets UK and GS1 standards.

Email us at sales@reekaz.co.uk | Call us at 0116 276 3952