Bates numbering
for PDF, in your browser.
Stamp a continuous, sequential number — like ABC000001 — across one PDF or an entire production set. Set a prefix and starting number once; the sequence carries on from file to file in the order you add them. Nothing is uploaded.
Drop PDFs here, or click to choose — add them in the order you want stamped
Use the arrows on each file to reorder before stamping — the sequence follows the list, top to bottom.
How to Bates-number PDFs online
- Set a prefix (e.g. a matter code), starting number, digit padding and optional suffix — the preview box shows exactly how the first stamp will look.
- Drop in your PDFs in the order you want them stamped. Use the up/down arrows on each row to reorder — the numbering follows the list from top to bottom.
- Click Stamp all. Each file is numbered one at a time, right in your browser, continuing the sequence from where the previous file left off.
- Download files individually, or click Download all (ZIP). Each filename includes the Bates range it covers, e.g.
contract-ABC000001-ABC000012.pdf.
Why use VitePDF for Bates numbering
- Continuous numbering across an entire production set — not just one file at a time like ordinary page numbering.
- Custom prefix and suffix, so stamps match your firm or matter's existing numbering convention.
- Files never leave your browser — there's no upload step, which matters for privileged or confidential documents.
- No account, no per-file limit on how many you process — only a per-file size cap (140 MB free).
Frequently asked questions
What is Bates numbering?
Bates numbering (also called Bates stamping) is a way of labeling pages with a unique, sequential identifier — typically a prefix plus a zero-padded number, like ABC000001 — so every page across a document production set can be referenced unambiguously. It's standard practice in legal discovery, litigation and records management.
Does the numbering continue across multiple files?
Yes — that's the difference from ordinary page numbering. Add every PDF in the order you want them stamped, and the sequence continues from the last page of one file to the first page of the next, using the starting number and digit padding you set.
Can I set a custom prefix and suffix?
Yes — enter any prefix (e.g. a matter code like "ABC") and, optionally, a suffix. The live preview above the file list shows exactly how a stamped page number will look before you process anything.
Is my file uploaded anywhere?
No — Bates numbering runs entirely in your browser tab using the same client-side PDF engine as our other batch tools. Files are never uploaded or sent to a server.
Can I number rotated or scanned pages?
Yes — numbering accounts for each page's own rotation, so the stamp reads upright and in the correct corner even on pages that were scanned sideways.
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