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Free Code 128 Barcode Generator
Create a Code 128 barcode for inventory labels, internal product IDs, cartons, bins, work orders, and warehouse workflows. Enter your value, generate the barcode in your browser, then download a PNG, SVG, or BMP file for printing or label design.
Generate a sample Code 128 barcode
The generator opens with a sample value and creates the barcode automatically. Replace the sample with your own value before downloading.
When to use Code 128
Use Code 128 when you need a compact linear barcode that can encode numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and common symbols. It is a strong default for internal labels because it supports more characters than UPC-A or EAN-13 and is widely supported by handheld scanners.
Valid Code 128 examples
ABC-123456for internal SKU or part labels.BIN-A04-R2for warehouse bin locations.WO-2026-0017for work orders.ASSET-004219for tools and equipment.
Generate common Code 128 label examples
Use one of these starter links when you are making a typical warehouse, asset, or work-order label. Each link opens the generator with Code 128 selected and a sample value already generated.
Code 128 label size starting points
The right printed size depends on the scanner, printer DPI, label material, and how long the value is. These are practical starting points for short internal IDs before you run a real scan test.
- Small part or shelf label: start around 35-45 mm wide for short values such as
SKU-1234. - Inventory and bin labels: start around 50-70 mm wide for values like
BIN-A04-R2orINV-000123. - Carton or pallet labels: use a wider barcode and larger quiet zones so scanners can read from farther away.
- Long values: shorten the ID if possible, or switch to Data Matrix when the label area is too narrow for a readable linear code.
Common Code 128 problems
- Very long values make the barcode physically wide and harder to scan on small labels.
- Low contrast, glossy surfaces, and stretched images can make otherwise valid barcodes fail.
- Spaces and symbols may be valid, but your inventory software may not expect them. Match the barcode value to the system that will read it.
Printing and download tips
- Use SVG when placing the barcode into design software or scalable label artwork.
- Use PNG or BMP for simple office documents, label software, and quick test prints.
- Print a proof at the real label size and scan it before printing a full batch.
- Leave clear blank space on both sides of the bars so scanners can find the code.
Code 128 vs other formats
Choose Code 128 for internal inventory IDs and mixed text. Use UPC-A or EAN-13 only when you already have official retail product numbers. Use QR Code or Data Matrix when you need a 2D code for URLs, long text, or compact square labels.
Frequently asked questions
Can Code 128 encode letters and numbers?
Yes. Code 128 supports numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and many common symbols, which makes it useful for internal inventory, asset, and warehouse labels.
Is Code 128 good for inventory labels?
Yes. Code 128 is usually the best first choice for internal SKU, bin, carton, and asset labels because it is flexible and widely supported by scanners.
Why is my Code 128 barcode too wide?
The barcode gets wider as the encoded value gets longer. Shorten the value, increase the printed label width, or use a 2D format such as Data Matrix if the label must stay very small.
Should I download Code 128 as PNG or SVG?
Use SVG for design software and scalable artwork. Use PNG or BMP when you need a simple image for documents, quick printing, or label software.
What size should a Code 128 barcode be?
Start with a barcode that is at least 35 to 50 mm wide for short inventory IDs, keep blank quiet zones on both sides, and test the printed label with the scanner that will read it. Longer values need more printed width.
Related barcode tools
Try Code 128, Data Matrix, QR Code, UPC-A, EAN-13, or the inventory barcode generator.