Code 128, for your own labels.
Make a Code 128 barcode for labels, stock and tickets: what it holds, how long it may be, how to size it, and how to print many from a spreadsheet.
By Suraj KumarUpdated 3 min read
Code 128 is the barcode for your own numbers: stock codes, asset tags, tickets, shipping references. Every scanner reads it, and it holds letters, digits and signs in less width than Code 39. The KeepSimp Code 128 barcode generator makes one in your browser.
What it holds.
Any of the characters on a keyboard (ASCII): capitals and small letters, digits, spaces and signs, but no accents. Long runs of digits are packed two to a character, so a long number makes a short barcode. Keep it under about 20 characters for a label a scanner reads easily.
Size and clear space.
Leave ten modules of clear space at each end. Choose a print size in millimetres and the designer tells you each module's width; keep it above 0.19 mm for an ordinary scanner and printer, and the bars tall enough to aim at.
Code 128 with a GTIN is GS1-128.
When the barcode is to carry a GTIN, a batch or an expiry for others to read, use GS1-128: the same bars, with GS1's Application Identifiers.
Further reading
Topics: code 128 · code 128 barcode · code 128 generator · barcode label · shipping label barcode · inventory barcode
A little less theory. A little more doing.
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