Free Code 39 Barcode Generator

Create a Code 39 barcode for asset tags, tool labels, shelf labels, nameplates, basic inventory IDs, and other short internal codes. Enter an uppercase value, generate the barcode in your browser, then download a PNG, SVG, or BMP file.

Generate a sample Code 39 barcode

The generator opens with a valid sample value and creates the barcode automatically. Replace the sample with your own uppercase ID before downloading.

When to use Code 39

Use Code 39 when you need a simple linear barcode for short uppercase identifiers. It is common for asset tags, durable equipment labels, shelf labels, nameplates, and older inventory workflows where scanner compatibility matters more than compact size.

Valid Code 39 characters

BarcodeLabeler accepts uppercase letters A-Z, numbers 0-9, spaces, and these symbols for Code 39: - . $ / + %.

If your value has lowercase letters, use uppercase text or switch to Code 128.

Code 39 examples

ASSET-10042 for fixed asset tags.
TOOL-17 for tool room labels.
BIN A-04 for shelf and bin locations.
PLATE-9237 for equipment nameplates.

Common Code 39 problems

Lowercase letters are not valid in this generator's Code 39 mode.
Long values produce wide barcodes because Code 39 is not as compact as Code 128.
Small labels need enough blank space on both sides of the bars for scanners to read the code.
Glossy, curved, scratched, or low-contrast labels can fail even when the encoded value is valid.

Printing and download tips

Use SVG if you are placing the barcode into label artwork or a design file.
Use PNG or BMP for quick office documents, test labels, and simple label software.
Print one proof at the actual label size and scan it before making a batch.
Keep Code 39 values short when printing on narrow asset tags or tool labels.

Code 39 vs Code 128

Choose Code 39 for simple uppercase IDs and broad scanner compatibility. Choose Code 128 for mixed-case text, more symbols, or a more compact barcode. For compact square labels, try Data Matrix instead.

Frequently asked questions

What characters can Code 39 encode?

Code 39 supports uppercase letters, numbers, spaces, and the symbols hyphen, period, dollar sign, slash, plus, and percent. It does not support lowercase letters in this generator.

Is Code 39 good for asset tags?

Yes. Code 39 is often used for simple asset tags, tool labels, nameplates, and internal IDs because it is easy to read and works with many scanners.

Should I use Code 39 or Code 128?

Use Code 39 for short, simple uppercase IDs when compatibility is more important than compact size. Use Code 128 when you need lowercase letters, more symbols, or a shorter barcode for the same value.

Why is my Code 39 barcode wider than expected?

Code 39 is less compact than Code 128, so longer values produce wide barcodes. Shorten the ID, increase the label width, or switch to Code 128 if space is tight.

Related barcode tools

Try Code 128, Data Matrix, QR Code, UPC-A, EAN-13, or the inventory barcode generator.