Free PDF417 Barcode Generator

Create a PDF417 barcode image for forms, tickets, logistics references, internal records, and compact business labels. PDF417 is a stacked barcode format that can hold more text than a simple one-line barcode.

Generate a sample PDF417 barcode

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

When PDF417 is useful

Forms, tickets, work orders, and job packets that need a scannable reference.
Logistics labels that need to encode a shipment, purchase order, bin, or routing value.
Internal records where a short Code 128 value is not enough.
Business labels scanned by hardware or software that specifically supports PDF417.

PDF417 examples

SHIP:100245;PO:77831;BIN:A04 for a logistics or receiving label.
WO-2026-00421;STEP=PACK for a work-order step.
TICKET=481516;ZONE=B;DATE=2026-08-11 for an event or internal ticket.
ASSET=FORKLIFT-02;INSPECT=MONTHLY for an equipment record.

Good PDF417 label workflow

Keep the encoded value structured and short enough to scan at your label size.
Choose PDF417 in the generator and create one sample barcode.
Download SVG for label artwork, or PNG/BMP for quick documents and tests.
Print one proof at final size and scan it with the same scanner or app used in the real workflow.

Common PDF417 mistakes

Encoding too much text, which makes the symbol dense and harder to print cleanly.
Stretching the downloaded image instead of scaling it evenly.
Removing the blank quiet zone around the barcode.
Assuming every scanner reads PDF417 without checking the scanner settings.

Printing tips

Use high contrast, avoid glossy wrinkles, and give the stacked bars enough physical height. If your first proof is hard to scan, try a wider output size, SVG format, 300 DPI, and a shorter encoded value.

PDF417 vs QR Code vs Data Matrix

Use PDF417 for stacked business labels and form-style data. Use QR Code for web links and phone scanning. Use Data Matrix when a compact square code fits better on a small industrial label. For simple inventory IDs, Code 128 is often easier.

Frequently asked questions

What is PDF417 best for?

PDF417 is useful when a label or form needs to hold more text than a simple linear barcode, while still staying printable as a stacked barcode.

Can PDF417 encode letters and numbers?

Yes. PDF417 can encode letters, numbers, spaces, and punctuation. Shorter values usually print cleaner and scan more reliably.

Why is my PDF417 barcode hard to scan?

Common causes include printing too small, stretching the image, low contrast, a damaged quiet zone, or using a scanner that is not configured to read PDF417.

Should I use PDF417, QR Code, or Data Matrix?

Use PDF417 for stacked business labels and form-style data. Use QR Code for phone-friendly links and Data Matrix for compact square industrial labels.

Related barcode tools

Try Code 128, Data Matrix, QR Code, SVG barcode generator, or the inventory barcode generator.