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How to Add Prefixes to Bates Numbers (Case or Client IDs)

Upload a PDF and add prefixes to Bates numbers to organize documents by case, client, or project.

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Quick notes
Tip: Many PDF tools can stamp page numbers, but legal and production workflows often need consistent Bates prefixes, padding, placement, and sequence control.

Step-by-step

Step 1
Choose a meaningful prefix (case name, client ID).
Step 2
Keep prefix formatting consistent.
Step 3
Combine prefix with sequential numbering.
Step 4
Validate formatting in preview.
Step 5
Apply across all related documents.

See the workflow in action

Prefer to see how this works in practice? Here’s a quick walkthrough showing how Bates numbering is applied across real PDF files, including setup, preview, and final output.

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This walkthrough demonstrates a real workflow with multiple PDFs, ZIP uploads, continuous numbering, and production-ready output.

You can apply the same workflow to your own documents in just a few steps.

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Files deleted per retention policy • No software install • Pricing shown before checkout • Built for legal document workflows

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Common mistakes to avoid

Using inconsistent prefixes
Leads to confusion across document sets.
Overly complex prefixes
Makes numbers harder to read and manage.
Changing prefixes mid-production
Breaks consistency and tracking.

FAQ

Are prefixes required?
Not required, but strongly recommended.
What should a prefix include?
Typically case name, client ID, or project reference.
Can prefixes include numbers?
Yes, as long as formatting remains consistent.