📦 SKU Barcode Generator (Code 128)
Professional SKU barcode generator that converts product SKUs and item codes into industry-standard Code 128 barcodes. Features customizable sizing, SVG/PNG export, and print-ready output for inventory management, shipping labels, and product identification.
Your SKU Barcode:
How to Use This SKU Barcode Generator (Code 128)
How to Generate SKU Barcodes:
- Enter your SKU or product code in the text field (supports letters, numbers, and symbols)
- Select the appropriate size preset based on your intended use case
- Choose between SVG (vector, scalable) or PNG (raster, fixed size) output format
- Enable or disable text display below the barcode for human readability
- Click "Generate Barcode" to create your professional Code 128 barcode
- Download the generated barcode file for use in your applications
Pro Tips: Use SVG format for printing applications as it scales without quality loss. Test your barcodes with actual scanners before mass production. Keep SKUs reasonably short for better scanning reliability!
How It Works
Code 128 Barcode Generation Process:
Our SKU barcode generator creates industry-standard Code 128 barcodes using advanced encoding algorithms. Here's the technical process:
- Input Validation: Validates your SKU text and ensures compatibility with Code 128 character set
- Encoding Algorithm: Converts your SKU into Code 128 binary pattern using start/stop codes and check digits
- Bar Pattern Generation: Creates the precise bar and space widths according to Code 128 specifications
- Format Rendering: Generates either SVG vector graphics or PNG raster images at your chosen dimensions
Code 128 Technical Specifications:
Character Set: All 128 ASCII characters including uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
Data Density: High-density linear barcode with excellent space efficiency
Error Detection: Built-in checksum and error detection for data integrity
Output Quality Considerations:
- SVG output maintains perfect quality at any scale for professional printing
- PNG output provides pixel-perfect rendering for digital applications
- Text display option adds human-readable SKU below barcode for manual verification
- Size presets optimized for common use cases from small labels to large shipping boxes
- High contrast black-on-white design ensures maximum scanner compatibility
When You Might Need This
- • Inventory management systems for tracking product stock levels and locations
- • Shipping label generation for e-commerce fulfillment and logistics operations
- • Retail point-of-sale systems for quick product identification and checkout
- • Warehouse operations for picking, packing, and sorting merchandise efficiently
- • Product labeling for manufacturers creating item tags and packaging barcodes
- • Asset tracking in offices and facilities for equipment and supply management
- • Library and media cataloging for book, DVD, and equipment checkout systems
- • Quality control processes for manufacturing batch tracking and compliance
- • Small business inventory for craft stores, boutiques, and specialty retailers
- • Database integration for automated data entry and inventory synchronization
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Code 128 barcodes ideal for SKUs compared to other formats?
Code 128 barcodes can encode all ASCII characters including letters, numbers, and symbols, making them perfect for complex SKUs. They offer high data density, excellent scanner compatibility, and built-in error checking. Unlike UPC codes which only handle numbers, Code 128 supports alphanumeric SKUs like 'PROD-123-XL' or 'SKU_ABC_001'.
Can I use these generated barcodes for commercial products and inventory?
Yes, the Code 128 barcodes generated are industry-standard and fully compatible with commercial barcode scanners, inventory management systems, and POS terminals. They meet all technical specifications for professional use. However, for retail UPC codes sold in stores, you'll need officially registered numbers from GS1.
What's the difference between SVG and PNG output formats?
SVG is a vector format that scales perfectly for any size printing without quality loss, making it ideal for labels, signs, and professional materials. PNG is a raster format with fixed pixels, better for web use and email. Choose SVG for printing and professional applications, PNG for digital use and sharing.
How should I size my barcodes for different applications?
Small (200x60px) works for tiny labels and product tags. Medium (300x80px) is perfect for most inventory labels and standard applications. Large (400x100px) is ideal for shipping boxes, posters, and situations requiring scanning from a distance. The barcode's readability depends on both size and print quality.
Are there any character limitations for SKU text input?
Code 128 supports all printable ASCII characters (letters, numbers, symbols) with a practical limit of about 50-80 characters for reliable scanning. Very long SKUs may create dense barcodes that are harder to scan. For best results, keep SKUs concise but descriptive, using standard alphanumeric characters and common symbols like hyphens and underscores.