Barcode Generator | Free Code 128 Barcode Generator

📖 How to Use This Barcode Generator

Enter your barcode text - Type the numbers or letters you want to encode.

Click "Generate Barcode" - Your Code 128 barcode is instantly created.

Download as PNG - Save your barcode for printing or digital use.

📦 Understanding Barcodes & Code 128

A barcode is an optical, machine-readable representation of data. Barcodes are used worldwide for product identification, inventory tracking, shipping labels, and more. Our generator creates Code 128 barcodes, which are the most versatile and widely used format.

Code 128 is a high-density linear barcode that can encode all 128 ASCII characters. It's the standard for shipping labels (GS1-128) and many industrial applications.
Supports alphanumeric data - Numbers, letters (uppercase/lowercase), and special characters.
Variable length - Can encode short or long data strings.
Self-checking - Includes a checksum digit for error detection.

📊 Common Barcode Types

Code 128: Supports full ASCII, high density. Used in logistics, shipping (GS1-128), and inventory.
UPC-A / UPC-E: 12-digit numeric barcodes for retail products in US/Canada.
EAN-13 / EAN-8: 13/8-digit retail barcodes used internationally.
Code 39: Older alphanumeric barcode, lower density than Code 128.
QR Code: 2D barcode storing more data, readable by smartphones.
PDF417: 2D stacked barcode used for driver's licenses and boarding passes.

💡 How to Use Generated Barcodes

Product Labeling: Print and attach to products for retail or inventory
Asset Tracking: Label equipment, tools, or documents for scanning
Warehouse Management: Create barcodes for shelf locations or bins
Shipping Labels: Generate tracking barcodes for packages
Library Books: Create unique barcodes for each book
Membership Cards: Generate barcodes for identification

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Code 128 and other barcode types?

Code 128 is a high-density linear barcode that supports all 128 ASCII characters. It's more compact than Code 39 and supports both numbers and letters (including lowercase), making it ideal for shipping labels and inventory systems.

Can I use these barcodes commercially?

Yes! Code 128 barcodes are an open standard. You can use them for product labeling, inventory, shipping, or any commercial application. For retail sale (UPC/EAN), you need GS1 membership and assigned prefixes.

How do I scan the barcode?

Use any barcode scanner app on your smartphone, or a physical USB barcode scanner. The barcode will read as the text you entered (e.g., "1234567890").

Can I generate barcodes in bulk?

This tool generates one barcode at a time. For bulk generation, you can use the examples or manually enter different values. You can also programmatically call the JsBarcode library.

How do I print barcodes?

Download the barcode as PNG, then insert into a document or label printing software. Use a thermal barcode printer or standard printer with adhesive labels for best results.

What characters work with Code 128?

Code 128 supports all 128 ASCII characters (0-9, A-Z, a-z, punctuation, and control characters). Our generator works with most common letters, numbers, and dashes.