Choose a barcode for the thing you need to scan
For an internal SKU read by a compatible barcode scanner, start with Code 128. It supports common upper- and lower-case SKU text, numbers, and punctuation. Code 39 is useful when an existing scanner, label workflow, or receiver specifies it. Use QR for links or text intended to be read by a phone or a two-dimensional scanner. Test the actual scanner or phone your team uses, including how it sends the result to the software.
An internal SKU identifies a product in your own system. A retail marketplace or distributor may require a registered product identifier and a specific barcode format. Ask for those requirements before making production labels. The generator encodes the string you enter and does not assign retail identifiers or add GS1 application data.
Worked example for a small stockroom
A shop needs labels for SKU-410, SKU-411, and SKU-412. Put each on its own line. Choose Code 128, Letter paper, three columns, five rows, and five copies of each line. This fills 15 positions. With a 10 mm outer margin and 3 mm gaps, each label area is about 63.30 mm wide by 49.48 mm high. The width calculation is (215.9 − 20 − 6) ÷ 3. The height calculation is (279.4 − 20 − 12) ÷ 5.
The copies appear consecutively in reading order across rows. Print one test on plain paper and compare it with the label stock against a light or window. Scan the sample with the intended scanner before printing the adhesive stock. Confirm both the decoded value and any formatting your inventory system adds at entry.
| Format | Example value | Test with |
|---|---|---|
| Code 128 | SKU-410 | Inventory barcode scanner |
| QR code | https://example.com/manual | Phone camera or 2D scanner |
| Code 39 | BIN-A-12 | Scanner configured for Code 39 |
Set the sheet size and print at actual size
Use Letter for 8.5 × 11 inch stock or A4 for 210 × 297 mm stock. Start with the outer margin and gaps you measure on the blank sheet. This tool uses equal margins on all edges and an equal gap between rows and columns. Stock with different top and side margins or different horizontal and vertical pitches needs software that accepts those individual dimensions.
Select the same paper in the print dialog, set scale to 100% or Actual size, and turn off headers and footers. The browser uses the selected sheet size for a PDF, though a physical printer may reserve its own nonprintable area. Compare the first and last rows on the paper test. Equal drift across the page can indicate an offset. Drift that grows down the sheet can indicate scale or pitch.
Common mistakes
Do not trim the blank space immediately around the code. The scanner uses the clear area to distinguish a symbol from surrounding text or other artwork. Avoid stretching a code with a screenshot editor. This generator checks for small code modules and may ask you to shorten the value or use fewer columns. If the barcode is under glossy laminate, test for glare at the angle used in practice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I mix formats on one sheet?
Choose one format per generated sheet. Use separate sheets for Code 128 and QR when they serve different workflows.
Can I make just one label?
Yes. Enter one value and leave copies at one. The remaining grid positions stay empty.
Why is my Code 39 value rejected?
Use uppercase letters, digits, spaces, or the allowed symbols: hyphen, period, dollar sign, slash, plus, and percent. Leave out start and stop asterisks.
Does the paid Label & Barcode Sheet Builder generate QR codes?
The paid listing describes Code 39 product labels. Use this free generator for Code 128 and QR sheets. Review the listing for the current paid features before purchasing.