Code 128 Barcode Generator

Generate a scannable Code 128 barcode from any text, numbers, or symbols. Code 128 encodes the full ASCII set, so it works for SKUs, serial numbers, tracking IDs, and more. Adjust bar width and height, then download the barcode as PNG or SVG.

Code 128 encodes letters, digits, and symbols (the full ASCII set). Type anything you want to turn into a barcode.

Human-readable text

Generate a real, scannable Code 128 barcode from any text you type. Code 128 is the high-density linear barcode used for shipping labels, logistics, inventory, and product tracking, and it can encode the entire ASCII character set - uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols. Type your value, fine-tune the bar width and height, and the barcode renders instantly with the human-readable text printed underneath. Download it as a crisp vector SVG for print or a high-resolution PNG for the web. Everything runs in your browser, so the data you encode never leaves your device.

What is a Code 128 barcode?

Code 128 is a compact, high-density linear (1D) barcode that can encode all 128 ASCII characters, including letters, numbers, and punctuation. It was designed to pack a lot of data into a small space, which is why it is the standard choice for shipping and logistics labels, carton and pallet IDs, inventory and warehouse systems, and serial or tracking numbers. The symbology automatically switches between three internal character sets (A, B, and C) to encode your data as efficiently as possible, and it appends a checksum so scanners can detect read errors. The GS1-128 standard used in supply chains is built on top of Code 128.

How to generate a Code 128 barcode

Type the value you want to encode, then optionally adjust the appearance. The barcode and readable text update as soon as the input is valid.

  1. Enter any text, numbers, or symbols you want to turn into a barcode.
  2. Set the bar width and height to suit your label or print size.
  3. Choose whether to show the human-readable text beneath the bars.
  4. Download the barcode as an SVG for print or a PNG for online use.

What characters can Code 128 encode?

Code 128 supports the full ASCII range: uppercase A-Z, lowercase a-z, the digits 0-9, common symbols such as dash, dot, slash, and space, and control characters. That flexibility is what sets it apart from numeric-only symbologies like EAN-13 or UPC. Because it uses three character sets, an all-numeric value is encoded especially densely, two digits per symbol, making Code 128 a great fit for long order numbers and tracking IDs while still handling mixed alphanumeric SKUs.

Why use this Code 128 barcode generator?

  • Free with no ads, sign-up, watermarks, or scan limits.
  • Encodes the full ASCII set: letters, digits, and symbols, not just numbers.
  • Renders a real, scanner-ready Code 128 barcode with the readable text beneath.
  • Adjustable bar width and height to match any label or print size.
  • Toggle the human-readable text on or off.
  • Downloads as a vector SVG for sharp printing at any size, or a high-resolution PNG.
  • Runs entirely in your browser, so the data you encode is never uploaded.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Code 128 and EAN-13?

EAN-13 is a fixed 13-digit retail product barcode that only encodes numbers. Code 128 is far more flexible: it encodes any text, including letters and symbols, and has a variable length. Use EAN-13 for retail products sold in stores and Code 128 for shipping, logistics, internal SKUs, and tracking numbers.

Can Code 128 encode letters and symbols?

Yes. Code 128 encodes the entire ASCII character set, so uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols like dash, dot, slash, and space all work. That is exactly why it is used for alphanumeric SKUs and order numbers.

Will this barcode actually scan?

Yes. The barcode follows the Code 128 specification and includes the required checksum, so any standard 1D barcode scanner or smartphone scanning app can read it. For reliable scanning, print it large enough and leave a clear quiet zone of white space on each side.

Should I download SVG or PNG?

Choose SVG when you need to print or resize the barcode without losing sharpness, since it is a vector format. Choose PNG when you need a ready-to-use image for the web, a document, or a label template.

Is my data sent to a server?

No. The barcode is generated entirely on your device in the browser, so the text you encode is never uploaded to or stored on any server.