Free ISBN Barcode Generator and Spine Width Calculator for KDP

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Free ISBN Barcode Generator + Spine Width Calculator

Create a print ready ISBN barcode and calculate exact spine width for KDP or Ingram. Export crisp PNG or SVG, set price add-on if needed, and fit the barcode to standard cover specs.

Open the Barcode + Spine Tool See All Author Tools

No login required. Free to use for personal and client projects.

At a glance

What it is: An ISBN EAN-13 barcode generator with an optional 5-digit price add-on, plus a spine width calculator for common interiors.

Best for: Authors and designers preparing paperback or hardcover files for KDP and IngramSpark.

Inputs: ISBN-13, trim size, page count, paper stock, laminate, and optional price add-on.

Outputs: 300 DPI PNG or scalable SVG barcode, standard barcode block size, and spine width in inches and millimeters.

Why I recommend it

You get two critical production steps in one place. The barcode exports clean and sharp for print. The spine calculation accounts for stock type so your wrap fits the case. The layout notes help place the code with the correct quiet zone and size, which reduces back and forth with your printer.

Key features

Feature	Details
Barcode type	EAN-13 for book industry with optional 5-digit price add-on
Export formats	PNG 300 DPI for print layouts, SVG for vector workflows
Standard size presets	Common blocks like 2.0 x 1.2 in and 1.75 x 1.2 in with quiet zone
Spine width	Auto calculation by page count and paper stock with inch and mm output
Trim guidance	Quick notes for KDP and Ingram on placement and safe margins
Price add-on	Option to encode retail price or leave as null for flexibility

Quick start

1. Enter your ISBN-13 without spaces or hyphens.
2. Pick a barcode block size. Keep standard 2.0 x 1.2 in for most covers.
3. Set optional price add-on or leave blank for no price.
4. Choose PNG or SVG and export the file.
5. Enter trim size, page count, and paper stock to calculate spine width.
6. Apply the barcode at lower right on the back cover, outside the spine safe area.

Workflows that work

Cover designer handoff

1. Generate the barcode as SVG for vector clarity.
2. Export a PNG proof for mockups at 300 DPI.
3. Share spine width, trim, and stock notes with the designer in the same email.

KDP wrap template match

1. Download the KDP template for your trim and page count.
2. Use the spine width from this tool to double check the template values.
3. Place the barcode in the safe area, align to the right, and keep the quiet zone clear.

Tips

• Use black on white for the barcode. Avoid pattern or tint behind it.
• Keep at least 0.125 in of clear space around the barcode block.
• If you change paper stock or page count, recalc the spine width.
• For foil or gloss, keep the barcode in a non-foil, non-pattern block.

Limitations

• This tool does not assign ISBNs. You need a valid ISBN from your provider.
• Price add-on is optional. Retail may still be set in the platform catalog.
• Spine math uses common KDP and Ingram pulp calipers. Always verify with a fresh template.

Export a clean barcode and a perfect spine

Move your cover from draft to press ready with accurate specs.

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FAQs

Do I need my own ISBN

Yes. You must supply a valid ISBN-13. The tool generates the barcode image only.

What size should I use for the barcode

2.0 x 1.2 in works for most paperbacks. Keep the quiet zone clear on all sides.

PNG or SVG for final covers

SVG is ideal for vector layouts. PNG 300 DPI is fine if your workflow is raster based.

Does lamination change spine width

Yes, slightly. Select your laminate type in the calculator to account for it.

Where should I place the barcode

Lower right on the back cover, inside the safe area, and outside the spine zone.