Can I use this barcode on products in shops?

Retailers usually need a GS1-registered UPC or EAN. You can generate the image here, but the number must be licensed to you.

Which scanners can read it?

Standard handheld and phone scanner apps that read common 1D barcodes.

What size should I print?

Around 3–4 cm wide for most labels. Very small prints can fail to scan.

Can I include letters?

Depends on the format; Code 128-style barcodes accept letters and numbers.

Check contrast, size and the blank margins on each side of the bars.

Yes, with no limit on the number of barcodes.

Barcode Generator

Generate a CODE128 barcode SVG from any text.

Reading time:: 2 min
Last updated:: 5 August 2026
Price:: Free, no signup

Your text

Results (live)

Type or paste text to see the result.

What the Barcode Generator does

Create a printable barcode from a number or code. Type the value and a barcode image appears that standard scanners in shops and warehouses can read.

It's useful for labelling stock, library books, asset tags or test data, and the image downloads ready for a label printer.

Why the Barcode Generator is useful

Barcodes remove typing errors at checkouts and stock counts. Scanning a label is faster and far more accurate than reading digits.

Note that retail barcodes (UPC/EAN) used on products in shops must be licensed from GS1. This tool draws the barcode, but the number itself needs to be legitimately yours for retail use.

Also known as: barcode generator, code128 generator, free barcode generator, online barcode generator, barcode generator online free, barcode generator tool, best barcode generator tool.

How to use the Barcode Generator

1
Enter the value
Type the product code, SKU or ID.
2
Check the barcode
Make sure the number printed under the bars matches.
3
Download and print
Print on labels and test with your scanner.

Key features

Barcode image from any code
Human-readable digits under the bars
Downloadable for printing
Instant preview

Benefits

Faster stock and asset counts
Fewer typing mistakes
Labels without special software

Real-life use cases

Small warehouse

A shop labels its storage shelves with SKU barcodes for quicker stock-taking.

School library

A librarian prints barcodes for newly donated books.

Tips for the best results

Print with enough blank space on both sides of the bars.
Black bars on a white label scan best.
Don't stretch the image — it can make the bars unreadable.

Conclusion

Type your code, download the barcode and print. For selling in retail stores, get official numbers from GS1 first.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use this barcode on products in shops?: Retailers usually need a GS1-registered UPC or EAN. You can generate the image here, but the number must be licensed to you.
Which scanners can read it?: Standard handheld and phone scanner apps that read common 1D barcodes.
What size should I print?: Around 3–4 cm wide for most labels. Very small prints can fail to scan.
Can I include letters?: Depends on the format; Code 128-style barcodes accept letters and numbers.
Why won't it scan?: Check contrast, size and the blank margins on each side of the bars.
Is it free?: Yes, with no limit on the number of barcodes.

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Browse the full tools directory, filter by category, or read guides on the Text Tools Hub blog.