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PDF Bates NumberingAdd Bates numbers to every page of a PDF document.

PDF Bates Numbering illustration
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PDF Bates Numbering

Add Bates numbers to every page of a PDF document.

How to Use
1

Upload PDF

Drop your PDF document.

2

Configure Format

Set prefix, start number, digits, and position.

3

Apply

Add Bates numbers and download.

What Is PDF Bates Numbering?

The PDF Bates Numbering tool adds sequential identification numbers to every page of your PDF document. Configure a prefix (e.g., "DOC-"), suffix, starting number, and number of digits (4, 6, or 8). Choose from six positions: bottom-right, bottom-center, bottom-left, top-right, top-center, or top-left. Customize font size for visibility. Bates numbering is essential in legal proceedings for unique page identification across document sets. The tool previews the numbering format before applying. All processing is client-side for document confidentiality.

Why Use Our PDF Bates Numbering?

  • Configurable prefix, suffix, and digit count
  • Six positioning options
  • Customizable font size
  • Essential for legal document management

Common Use Cases

Legal Discovery

Number documents for litigation discovery.

Compliance

Add sequential identifiers for regulatory filings.

Archives

Number archived document pages for reference.

Medical Records

Sequentially number patient record pages.

Technical Guide

Uses pdf-lib with embedded Helvetica font. Iterates through all pages, generating Bates numbers using the formula: prefix + padded number + suffix. Numbers are padded with leading zeros to the specified digit count. Text positioning is calculated based on page dimensions and font metrics. Supports six positions with appropriate x/y calculations for each. Font size is configurable from 6pt to 20pt. Text color is a subtle gray (0.3, 0.3, 0.3) to avoid interfering with document content.

Tips & Best Practices

  • 1
    Use meaningful prefixes like case numbers
  • 2
    6 digits is standard for most legal work
  • 3
    Bottom-right is the most common position
  • 4
    Preview the format before applying

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Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat is Bates numbering?
A method of assigning unique sequential numbers to pages in legal document sets.
QCan I set the starting number?
Yes, start from any number you choose.
QWhat positions are available?
Six positions: bottom/top combined with left/center/right.
QCan I number multiple documents sequentially?
Process each document with the appropriate starting number.
QDoes this modify the original?
The original file is not modified. A new copy is generated.

About PDF Bates Numbering

PDF Bates Numbering is a free online tool from FreeToolkit.ai. All processing happens directly in your browser — your data never leaves your device. No registration required. No ads. Just fast, reliable tools.