Code 128 Barcode Generator
Create free Code 128 barcodes online — the high-density, alphanumeric workhorse of shipping, logistics, and warehouse labeling. Encode letters, numbers, and symbols into a compact, reliable barcode and download as SVG or PNG instantly.
Open the Barcode Generator → Verify after printing
What Is Code 128?
Code 128 is a very high-density 1D barcode that can encode all 128 ASCII characters — uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols. It uses three subsets (A, B, and C) that the encoder switches between automatically; subset C packs pairs of digits into a single symbol, making numeric Code 128 extremely compact. A built-in checksum keeps reads accurate.
Where Code 128 Is Used
- Shipping labels — carriers and the GS1-128 standard build on Code 128 for tracking and SSCC codes.
- Warehouse & inventory — bin locations, asset tags, and internal SKUs that mix letters and numbers.
- Manufacturing & healthcare — lot numbers, serial numbers, and equipment labels.
Why Choose Code 128 Over UPC/EAN?
Unlike UPC-A and EAN-13 — which are fixed-length, numeric, and require a licensed GS1 number for retail — Code 128 is variable-length, alphanumeric, and free to use for any internal purpose. You do not need to register anything: if the data is for your own systems, just type it and print.
How to Generate a Code 128 Barcode
- Open the barcode generator and pick Code 128.
- Type any text — an SKU like
WH-A12-0345, a tracking number, or a serial. - Preview live, then download SVG for label printers or PNG for screens.
Print Tips for Logistics Labels
- Export SVG and print on a thermal label printer at 203 DPI or higher.
- Maintain a quiet zone of at least 10x the narrow-bar width on each side.
- Keep data reasonably short — long strings make the symbol wide and harder to scan.
- Spot-check printed labels with our barcode scanner before mass production.
Generating thousands of unique labels? Pair Code 128 with our bulk generator workflow, and see the CSV-to-codes guide.