Bates Numbering

Add Sequential Bates Labels to PDF Pages

Bates Numbering adds a unique page label to a PDF. It is commonly used for legal review, compliance packets, discovery documents, exhibits, audits, contract bundles and any document set where people refer to exact pages without confusion.

How Bates Labels Are Used

A Bates label usually includes a short prefix and a running number. Examples include CASE-000001, DOC-000245 or EXHIBIT-0012. The label makes it easier to cite a page in an email, meeting note, review comment or filing checklist. Everyone can point to the same page even when the PDF is printed or split later.

Prefix, Start Number and Digits

Choose a prefix that matches your matter, project or document set. Set the starting number when the PDF continues an existing sequence. Digit padding keeps labels aligned and easier to scan. If a prior batch ended at DOC-000150, the next file can start at 151 and keep the numbering consistent.

Selected Page Ranges

You can number all pages or apply Bates labels only to selected pages. That is useful when a cover page, certificate or divider should not receive a label. It also helps when only part of a PDF belongs to a larger review set.

Review Before Filing

Open the finished PDF and check placement, prefix and starting number before sharing it. Bates numbering is simple, but mistakes are annoying once documents are circulated. If the file is part of a formal legal or compliance process, confirm the numbering format with the person or system receiving it.