How to Use This Tool
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1
Enter Your Data
Type your text, URL, or numbers in the input field above
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2
Customize Settings
Adjust size, colors, and other options to match your needs
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3
Generate & Download
Click generate and download in PNG, SVG, or other formats
Key Features
Accurate calculations
Supports multiple formats
Instant results
GS1 compliant algorithms
Free to use
About This Tool
What is ISSN Barcode?
An ISSN barcode identifies magazines, journals and other periodicals as an EAN-13 with the 977 prefix, usually with an issue add-on so each edition is distinct.
- Base: EAN-13 (977 prefix)
- Add-on: Issue number
ISSN Check Digit Calculator
This calculator works out the correct ISSN Barcode check digit (and how many numbers you need) instantly, so your barcodes scan first time.
Where ISSN Barcode is used
- Magazine and journal publishing
- Newsstand distribution
When to use ISSN Barcode
Use an ISSN barcode on periodicals and serial publications.
Related resources
Try the ISSN generator
Enter your ISSN value below. We'll render a scannable barcode you can download as SVG, PNG or JPEG.
All formats download instantly. No signup needed.
ISSN specification
| Type | Retail 1D barcode |
|---|---|
| Data capacity | 12 digits + 1 check digit (13 digits total) |
| Character set | Numeric only (0-9) |
| Nominal width | 37.29 mm (100% magnification) |
| Nominal height | 25.93 mm |
| Minimum quiet zone | 11 modules on the left, 7 on the right |
| Used on | Retail products worldwide except North America |
| Marketplaces | Amazon India, Flipkart, Meesho, Myntra, Jio Mart, Ajio |
| Check digit | Modulo-10 (position 13) |
| ISO standard | ISO/IEC 15420 |
ISSN — frequently asked questions
Is this ISSN generator really free?
Yes. Every ISSN created here is free forever. There is no watermark, no signup, no daily limit. Barcodes generated in your browser stay in your browser — nothing is uploaded to our servers.
Can I use these ISSN images commercially?
Yes. The generated ISSN file is yours to use on packaging, marketplaces, invoices, signage or anywhere else, with no attribution required.
What image formats can I download?
SVG (vector, best for print), PNG (transparent, best for the web) and JPEG (smallest file, works everywhere).
Will marketplace catalog teams accept a ISSN generated here?
Yes. The generated ISSN is a standards-compliant graphic. What marketplaces actually check is whether the underlying number is registered to your business — that's a separate step (see the BarcodeMine Certificate of Assignment).
Do I need to buy a barcode range or can I generate my own?
You can generate the image with this tool for free. But the numbers behind the barcode must be registered to your business for marketplaces to accept them. BarcodeMine sells permanently-owned GTIN ranges (one-time purchase) — see /shop/.
Do I have to pay annual fees like GS1?
No. BarcodeMine barcodes are pre-2002 UCC-issued and are owned permanently after purchase — no renewal or annual fees.