Free Code 128 barcode generator
Code 128 is the general-purpose linear barcode: it holds the whole printable ASCII range in a compact strip, which is why it dominates shipping and inventory labels.
Barcode format
Any printable ASCII text (letters, digits, punctuation). Compact and the usual pick for internal labels.
Keep strong contrast (dark bars on a light background) and leave a clear margin, or scanners may fail to read it.
Preview
Rendering…
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What is Code 128?
Code 128 is a high-density linear symbology with three internal character sets. Set C packs pairs of digits into a single symbol, so a long numeric value prints much shorter than the same value in Code 39. The encoder picks and switches sets automatically.
Every Code 128 symbol ends with a built-in checksum character that scanners verify on their own. You do not type it and it is not part of your data, which makes misreads very unlikely.
When to use Code 128
Internal labels where the value mixes letters and numbers, such as ORDER-10234 or BIN-A7-03.
Carrier and warehouse labels, asset tags and library or lab sample IDs.
Anywhere no retail standard applies. If the product is sold in shops you want EAN-13 or UPC-A instead.
How to make a Code 128 barcode
- 1
Type your value. Printable ASCII only, up to 80 characters; accents, emoji and line breaks are rejected.
- 2
Adjust bar width, height and colours, and choose whether the human-readable text appears under the bars.
- 3
Download SVG for print work, PNG for documents or PDF for a print shop.
- 4
Print at a size your scanner can resolve and leave a clear margin on both sides, then scan a printed copy to confirm.
Code 128 questions
Does Code 128 need a check digit that I have to calculate?
No. The checksum character is added by the encoder and verified by the scanner. It never appears in your value, so there is nothing to compute by hand.
Can Code 128 store lower-case letters?
Yes. Unlike Code 39 it distinguishes upper and lower case, because it covers the full printable ASCII range. What you type is exactly what the scanner reads back.
Why is my Code 128 barcode so long?
Length grows with the number of characters. Purely numeric values of even length shrink to about half the width because digit pairs are packed together, so consider a numeric ID if space is tight.
Is Code 128 allowed on retail packaging?
Point-of-sale scanners expect EAN or UPC symbols. Code 128 is fine for your own stock and shipping labels, but it will not replace a GS1 retail barcode on a product sold in shops.
Related barcode formats
Need a code people scan with their phone?
Barcodes hold short numbers. For links, Wi-Fi, contact cards and more, create a QR code.
- No watermark
- No account for static codes