Generate UUIDs for Databases and Test Data

When this applies

This workflow fits when tables, APIs, or fixtures need stable unique identifiers. Generate in batches, paste deliberately, and document intended environments.

Tool to use

Generate UUIDs v4.

Open UUID Generator →

Steps

  1. 1Decide count and format (with or without hyphens) for target systems.
  2. 2Generate UUIDs and paste into migration, fixture, or test code.
  3. 3Avoid reusing production IDs in shared samples or public repos.
  4. 4Version-control schema changes that depend on generated IDs.

Examples

  • Seeding a staging database with non-sequential public IDs.
  • Creating request correlation IDs for integration test harnesses.

What to avoid

  • Committing secrets alongside pasted ID lists without review.
  • Assuming v4 sort order implies time order.
  • Mixing uppercase and lowercase conventions across services.

Related tools

On the blog

More in Developer & Data Tools

Browse all task guides or see the full list on the Developer & Data Tools hub.

FAQ

Are v4 UUIDs predictable?

They are random and not meant to be guessable like sequential integers.

Bulk paste limits?

Paste only what your tool and destination can safely handle; split large batches if needed.

All task guides · Developer & Data Tools tools · Blog