# Add Bates numbers to PDFs (Bates numbering)

> Sequential stamps like ACME000001 across one file or a whole production set, in your browser.

Canonical page: https://bettrpdf.com/tools/bates-numbering  
This file: https://bettrpdf.com/tools/bates-numbering.md  
Site index for agents: https://bettrpdf.com/llms.txt

Tier: Free. Accepts: application/pdf. Several files at once.

Runs entirely in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.

## FAQ

**What is Bates numbering?**

A unique, sequential identifier stamped on every page of a document set, used in litigation discovery so any page can be cited exactly. The format is usually a prefix and a zero-padded number, like ACME000417.

**Does the sequence continue across files?**

Yes. Add the files in production order and numbering runs continuously from the start number through the last page of the last file. Each file is returned separately with its range in the file name.

**Can I pick the corner and the starting number?**

Yes. Choose any corner or bottom centre, set the prefix, the start number and how many digits to pad to. Six digits is the convention.

**Is this good enough for a real production?**

The stamps are real text drawn into the page content, so they survive printing, OCR and every reader. For redaction, confidentiality legends and load files, use the agent or talk to us.

**Is my file uploaded anywhere?**

No. Every free tool runs in your browser. The file never leaves your device unless you choose to save it to your account.

**Is it free?**

Yes, with no limit and no account. Need to fill, sign and send a PDF back? Use Fill & Sign.

## Related tools

- [Add page numbers](https://bettrpdf.com/tools/add-page-numbers.md)
- [Watermark PDF](https://bettrpdf.com/tools/watermark-pdf.md)
- [Merge PDF](https://bettrpdf.com/tools/merge-pdf.md)