ISSN Magazine Barcodes
What Is an ISSN?
ISSN stands for International Standard Serial Number. This is a unique 8-digit number that identifies periodical publications – such as magazines, journals, and newspapers.
How to get an ISSN:
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You apply for an ISSN through an international organisation that allocates all ISSN numbers.
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If you already have an ISSN number, you can purchase the barcode images for it here.
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If you need an ISSN number, you can apply for one here.
Which ISSN Barcode Format Do You Need?
Before purchasing, consider which format best suits your publication. ISSN barcodes come in three main formats:
| Format | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Option 1: 13-digit (fixed) | Converts the ISSN to a 13-digit EAN-13 barcode – same number for every issue. | Magazines where each issue has the same barcode. |
| Option 2: 13-digit (variable) | Converts the ISSN to a 13-digit EAN-13 barcode – but changes the ’00’ to create a different barcode for each issue. | Magazines that need a unique barcode per issue. |
| Option 3: 13+2 (supplement) | Converts the ISSN to a 13-digit EAN-13 barcode and adds a 2-digit supplement that changes per issue (e.g., monthly 01-12 or weekly 01-52). | Most common in the UK – and widely used elsewhere. |
Option 1 – 13-Digit Barcode (Fixed)
How it works:
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Take the 8-digit ISSN number.
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Add 977 to the beginning.
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Remove the existing check-digit.
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Add 00 to the end.
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Recalculate the check-digit.
Result: A 13-digit EAN-13 barcode image that works with all standard retail scanners.
Advantage: You use the same barcode for every issue of your magazine.
Best for: Magazines that do not require issue-specific tracking.
Option 2 – 13-Digit Barcode (Variable)
How it works:
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Follow the same conversion process as Option 1.
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However, instead of always using ’00’ at the end, you change this number for each issue.
Result: A different EAN-13 barcode image for each issue.
Advantage: Each issue has a unique barcode – useful for tracking sales per issue.
Best for: Publishers who want to monitor sales of individual issues.
Option 3 – 13+2 Barcode (With Supplement)
How it works:
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Convert the ISSN to a 13-digit EAN-13 barcode (same as Option 1).
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Add a 2-digit supplement code to the end.
Supplement options:
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Monthly: Use numbers 01 to 12 (for each month).
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Weekly: Use numbers 01 to 52 (for each week).
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Custom: You can choose any other sequence that suits your publication schedule.
Result: A 15-digit barcode (EAN-13+2) that includes both the ISSN and the issue number.
Advantage: This is the most common format in the UK and is widely accepted by retailers.
Best for: Magazines sold in the UK and other markets that prefer this format.
Which Format Should You Choose?
Our advice:
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Check with your retailers before deciding. Different stores may prefer different formats.
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In the UK, Option 3 (13+2) is the most common.
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In other countries, Options 1 and 2 (13-digit) are often preferred.
Tip: It is a good idea to contact the stores you plan to stock – they can tell you which format they use.
How to Order Your ISSN Barcode
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Choose your format – decide between Option 1, 2, or 3.
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Provide your ISSN number – if you already have one.
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Specify your supplement sequence – if you choose Option 3 (e.g., monthly 01-12).
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Place your order – we will create your barcode images and email them to you instantly.
International Standard Serial Numbers are the numbers allocated to all periodical publications such as magazines or journals. These numbers are applied for through an international organisation that allocates all ISSN numbers. If already have an ISSN number, then you can purchase the barcode images for this here. If you require an ISSN Number, these can be applied for here.
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ISSN Barcode Images
Here you can purchase ISSN Barcode images (for a magazine/periodical). When you proceed to the check out page, please enter your 8 digit ISSN Number in the additional information section when filling out your details. Also specify if you require an alternative format for your barcode (i.e. 13+2).
Your ISSN barcode images will be emailed through to you in 3 formats (PDF, PNG & SVG) once the order has been received.
Quantity Price per image 1 70,000 2 60,000 each 3 50,000 each 4 + 35,000 each If you require a series of ISSN Numbers please contact us
NEW – A TAX OF 18% VAT will be Charged as required by Law
Note – All prices are in UGX
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Barcode Registration Process | Increased Internet Profile | Theft and Misuse Prevention | Validity & Legitimacy Proof
Barcode Registration
With Barcode registration you can register your barcode and product information on the International Barcodes Database. Once we receive an order for this, we will email you through a request for proof of barcode ownership. We will then instruct you on how to register your barcode and product on this database.
Note – this is included in our barcode packages, hence, it should only be purchased if you have bought barcodes through another company or a barcode outside of a barcode package through us.
Quantity
Price per Barcode 1 + 35,000 each 5 + 30,000 each 10 + 25,000 each 20 + 22,000 each 30 + 20,000 each 50 + 18,000 each NEW – A TAX OF 18% VAT will be Charged as required by Law
Note – All prices are in UGX
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ISSN to get a magazine barcode?
Yes – you must have an ISSN number before you can create an ISSN barcode.
Can I use the same barcode for every issue?
Yes – Option 1 uses the same barcode for all issues. Options 2 and 3 create unique barcodes per issue.
What is the supplement code for?
The supplement code (in Option 3) indicates the specific issue – e.g., month 03 for March or week 15 for the 15th week.
Which format do UK retailers prefer?
The 13+2 format (Option 3) is most common in the UK.
How long does it take to receive my barcodes?
We email your barcode images within 2 minutes of payment.
If you have a book, and require barcodes for this, please see our book barcodes section.
Look here for CD barcodes and DVD barcodes.