How to Generate Serial Numbers in CorelDRAW

This guide explains how to automatically generate and insert sequential serial numbers into your designs using CorelDRAW’s native Print Merge tool. Whether you are creating tickets, badges, invoices, or product labels, this automated process eliminates manual entry by creating a dynamic sequence of numbers directly inside your workspace or via an external data file.

Step 1: Prepare Your Document

  1. Open CorelDRAW and load the design requiring serial numbers.
  2. Ensure you leave an empty space where the numbers should appear.

Step 2: Open the Print Merge Tool

  1. In the top menu bar, click on File.
  2. Hover over Print Merge and select Create/Load Print Merge.
  3. A dialog box or docker will appear depending on your CorelDRAW version.

Step 3: Configure the Number Sequence

  1. In the Print Merge window, click Add Column.
  2. Select Numeric as the field type and give the column a name, such as Serial_Number.
  3. Configure your numbering parameters:
    • Format: Choose how the numbers should display (for example, 0001 or 00001 for fixed-digit sequences with leading zeros).
    • Starting Value: Enter your beginning number (e.g., 1).
    • Continually increment: Check this box.
    • Ending Value: Enter the final number in your sequence (e.g., 500).
  4. Click Add to populate the data list, then click Next or Finish.

Step 4: Insert and Style the Field

  1. After closing the configuration wizard, the Print Merge toolbar or docker will remain active.
  2. Ensure your field (Serial_Number) is selected in the dropdown menu.
  3. Click Insert Selected Field. A text object displaying the field name enclosed in brackets (e.g., <Serial_Number>) will appear on your page.
  4. Move this text box to your desired location.
  5. Apply any necessary styling, such as font choice, size, alignment, and color. The final generated numbers will inherit these exact text properties.

Step 5: Generate the Final Output

Once the field is placed and formatted, choose your output method from the Print Merge toolbar:

  • Merge to New Document: This generates a new multi-page or multi-item CorelDRAW document containing every unique serial number. Use this option if you need to inspect the layout, make manual adjustments, or export the completed sequence to a PDF.
  • Perform Print Merge: This sends the job directly to your printer, applying imposition layouts or printing the series sequentially without creating a large working file.