Where are identifiers placed?

They are drawn in the bottom-right page margin.

Can numbering continue across files?

Yes. Manually set the next file's start value to the previous final value plus one.

Does it detect duplicate identifiers?

No. Sequence management across files remains the user's responsibility.

Does it replace printed page numbers?

No. Bates labels are added separately.

Is this chain-of-custody software?

No. It stamps visible identifiers but does not log evidence handling or cryptographically certify files.

PDF Tools

Bates Numbering

Stamp sequential padded identifiers on PDF pages for legal and document-control workflows.

Free browser toolRuns in your browserNo sign-up

Document control numbering studio

Stamp a unique sequence across every page

Configure a prefix, starting value and fixed digit width for legal, discovery and records workflows.

Sequential

numbering

2–12

digit width

Bottom right

placement

Drop a PDF here, or click to choose

Processed locally in your browser.

About the Bates Numbering

Bates Numbering stamps a sequential identifier in the bottom-right area of every page. A prefix, starting number, and digit width control labels such as EX-A-000001.

The interface previews the first and last identifier before saving. This makes it possible to continue a sequence from a previous document by entering the next start value.

Labels use a standard embedded font and fixed placement. The tool does not maintain a case database, detect collisions across files, or provide cryptographic chain-of-custody evidence.

Key features

Custom text prefix
Configurable numeric start
Fixed zero-padding width
First and last identifier preview
Sequential label on every page
Bottom-right placement
Non-rasterized local output

How to use

1Upload the PDF.
2Enter the matter, exhibit, or document prefix.
3Set the next starting number and required digit width.
4Check the displayed first and last identifiers.
5Apply Bates numbers and record the final value for the next file.

Examples

Number a legal exhibit

Input: 25 pages, prefix EX-A-, start 1, six digits

Output: EX-A-000001 through EX-A-000025

Frequently asked questions

Where are identifiers placed?: They are drawn in the bottom-right page margin.
Can numbering continue across files?: Yes. Manually set the next file's start value to the previous final value plus one.
Does it detect duplicate identifiers?: No. Sequence management across files remains the user's responsibility.
Does it replace printed page numbers?: No. Bates labels are added separately.
Is this chain-of-custody software?: No. It stamps visible identifiers but does not log evidence handling or cryptographically certify files.

Open a related tool to prepare your files or refine the finished result.