How to Add Bates Numbers to PDFs Online Free

Need sequential page numbering for legal review, discovery, or audit packages? Papr's Bates Numbering tool lets you add a consistent prefix and numbered sequence across your PDF without uploading files anywhere.

Why Use Bates Numbering?

• Keep large document productions organized and easy to reference
• Apply a consistent sequence across every page in the file
• Add optional prefixes like matter IDs or client codes
• Keep sensitive PDFs on-device while preparing them

Step-by-Step: Adding Bates Numbers

Step 1: Open Your PDF

Open the PDF you want to number in the Papr editor.

Step 2: Open Organize Pages

In the top toolbar, open Pages and choose Organize Pages.

Step 3: Switch to Page Marks

In the Organize Pages modal, open the Page Marks tab and select Bates Numbering.

Step 4: Configure the Sequence

Set your prefix, starting number, and digit width. Papr shows a live preview so you can confirm the format before applying it.

Step 5: Apply the Numbering

Click Apply Bates Numbering, then click Apply in the Organize Pages modal to commit the marks to the document.

Step 6: Export the Updated PDF

Export the PDF to download the numbered version. The Bates marks are embedded in the output file.

Tips

• Use a meaningful prefix like a client or matter code for easier indexing
• Choose enough digits to cover the total page count in the production set
• Review the first and last page before export to verify placement and formatting

Related Guides

• How to Add Stamps to PDFs
• How to Add a Watermark
• How to Split PDFs