Make the barcode graphic
Barcodes should be generated as vector/EPS format at http://www.terryburton.co.uk/barcodewriter/generator/ using the following directions:
- Select Barcode Symbology as UPC-A
- Enter the UPC
- Select "Make Barcode"
- Download the barcode as EPS format.
Place the barcode
- In either InDesign or Illustrator, place the UPC code in upper right corner of back cover (place 1/8" from trim & fold edges). The top of the barcode can "bleed" off the top edge of the artwork, as long as the barcode is at least .5" inch tall (within print safety lines).
- Size: Barcode must be at least 1.5" inches wide and at least .5" inch tall.
- Barcode must be placed on a white background and should include some white padding around the numbers (so the numbers aren't bleeding into the background).
- If changing the size of the barcode, make sure to constrain proportions or maintain the aspect ratio. An improper resize will make the barcode unreadable by scanners.
- When finished, export the file a print-ready PDF.
Check that the barcode is placed properly
Open the print-ready PDF in Adobe Acrobat Professional:
- At the top, select: Advanced. Then select Print Production > Output Preview
- A window showing CMYK percentages will pop up. Move your cursor over the barcode bars. Black bars in barcode should read 100% "K" (or black). If there are any percentages of C, M or Y, barcode is not true black, and it's not placed properly.
Art contact
Contact Sabrina Watson with any questions or concerns.
