How to use the barcode generator
- Type the text or number you want encoded — letters, digits and common symbols all work.
- Adjust the bar height and width to suit your label size.
- Download as a PNG for documents, or an SVG for print where it stays sharp at any size.
About Code 128
Code 128 is the workhorse barcode of shipping, warehousing and inventory. It's a high-density symbology that encodes the full set of printable ASCII characters, which is why it handles product codes, SKUs, serial numbers and tracking references that mix letters and digits. Every Code 128 symbol includes a calculated check digit so scanners can detect misreads, plus quiet zones on each side — this generator adds both automatically.
Printing barcodes that actually scan
Two things break scanning more than anything else: printing too small, and not leaving white space. Keep a clear quiet zone of at least ten times the narrow bar width on both sides, print solid black on a white background rather than a colour or pattern, and never scale a small PNG up. For labels the SVG download is the safer choice, because it's vector-based and stays crisp at any size.
Benefits
- Generates standards-compliant Code 128 barcodes with the correct check digit.
- Encodes the full printable ASCII set — letters, digits and punctuation.
- Downloads as PNG for documents or SVG for sharp printing at any size.
- Adds the required quiet zones automatically so codes actually scan.
Limitations to know
- It produces Code 128 only — not retail UPC/EAN, which must be issued via GS1.
- It encodes text you type, not data read from a file or spreadsheet.
- Scanning reliability still depends on print quality and size.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Printing too small or scaling a low-resolution PNG up, which breaks scanning.
- Cropping away the white quiet zone on either side of the bars.
- Printing on a coloured or patterned background instead of plain white.
Alternatives
For a scannable link or text square use the QR Code Generator; to put a code on an invoice use the Invoice Generator.
Last updated: August 2026 · Reviewed by the AI Toolbox editorial team.
Frequently asked questions
Is my data uploaded?
No — the barcode is drawn on a canvas entirely in your browser, so your codes never leave your device.
Which characters can I encode?
Code 128 Set B covers all printable ASCII: uppercase and lowercase letters, digits 0–9 and common punctuation.
Will it scan with a normal scanner?
Yes — it's a standards-compliant Code 128 symbol with the correct check digit, readable by standard laser and camera scanners.
Can I make a UPC or EAN retail barcode?
This tool generates Code 128. Retail UPC/EAN codes must be issued through GS1 and follow a fixed digit format.