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Bates Numbering
Bates Numbering applies the sequential identification stamps used in legal discovery: a prefix plus a zero-padded counter, printed on a fixed corner of every page. You control the prefix, the padding width and the starting number.
How to use Bates Numbering
- Upload the document set you are producing for disclosure.
- Enter the Bates prefix and the starting number; the padding follows the length you type.
- Apply the stamps and download the numbered file.
Where Bates Numbering is useful
- Numbering exhibits for a legal bundle so each page can be cited unambiguously.
- Stamping discovery productions with a consistent client-matter prefix.
- Adding sequential control numbers to audit records.
Formats, algorithms and limits
Stamps are drawn as vector text in the footer area, right-aligned, using a standard font, and the counter advances by one per page. Padding width is taken from the starting number you enter, so entering 00001 produces five-digit numbers throughout.
Troubleshooting and honest limits
- Use a unique prefix per production set to keep numbering traceable across volumes.
- Enter the start number with leading zeros if you need a fixed width, for example 000012.
- Verify one page before stamping a large batch — the stamp is written into the file and cannot be removed afterwards with this tool.
Frequently asked questions
How is the padding width decided?
From the starting number you type. Typing 1 gives short numbers, while typing 0001 pads every stamp to four digits for a consistent look.
Where are the numbers placed?
Right-aligned in the footer, a fixed distance from the page edge, which is the conventional position for Bates stamps outside the text block.
Can I continue numbering from a previous volume?
Yes. Set the start number to the value after your last stamp so the sequence continues without gaps or duplicates.
Are the numbers real text?
Yes, they are embedded as page text and are therefore searchable and selectable in the output document.
Related tools
Page written and reviewed by the FreeConvertio engineering team on 2026-10-14. Bates Numbering runs entirely in your browser — no uploads, no account and no daily limits.