Barcode Generator: Create Custom Shipping Barcodes

Introduction

You need to generate custom barcodes for your shipping labels. Whether you're using Code128, UPC-A, or EAN-13, you need a way to create them without expensive software.

Our free Barcode Generator lets you create professional barcodes in seconds. Choose your format, enter your code, and download as PNG or SVG. No software required.

Barcode Formats (Which One Should You Use?)

When to Generate Custom Barcodes

• You have custom order numbering system

• You need barcodes in addition to platform-provided ones

• You want to use your own tracking system

• You need barcodes for non-standard shipping scenarios

• You want to generate bulk barcodes for batch orders

How to Use Barcode Generator

1. Choose format - Select Code128

2. UPC-A

3. EAN-13 or Code39

4. Enter code - Type your barcode value (alphanumeric for Code128 numeric for UPC-A/EAN-13) Generate - System creates barcode instantly Download - Get as PNG (raster) or SVG (vector). PNG for immediate use SVG for scaling

Barcode Format Details

• Supports: 0-9, A-Z, a-z, special characters

• Length: Variable (typically 10-20 characters) Example: ORDER_12345_ABC Best for: Custom order codes

• Supports: 0-9 only (12 digits) Length: Must be exactly 12 digits Example: 012345678905 Best for: Retail products

• Supports: 0-9 only (13 digits) Length: Must be exactly 13 digits Example: 5901234123457 Best for: International product codes

Code128

UPC-A

EAN-13

Download Formats (PNG vs SVG)

Best Practices for Custom Barcodes

• Use Code128 for shipping—it is the standard

• Print at 203+ DPI for thermal printers

• Size minimum 2\×1\ (width × height) Add 0.1\ quiet zone (blank space) around barcode, Use pure black & white (no colors), Test one barcode before printing batch, Verify it scans with actual barcode scanner,

Common Barcode Generation Mistakes

Mistake 1: Wrong format for use case

Don't use EAN-13 for custom order codes. Use Code128 instead. EAN-13 is for product codes.

Mistake 2: Too-small barcode

Minimum 2"×1". Smaller barcodes often fail scanning. Use larger if possible.

Mistake 3: Not testing before bulk printing

Always print and scan 5-10 test barcodes. Verify they scan before printing 500+.

Mistake 4: Using wrong quantity of digits

UPC-A must be exactly 12 digits. EAN-13 must be exactly 13 digits. System will reject incorrect lengths.

Integration: Using Barcodes in Your Labels

• Barcode Generator with this tool Download PNG or SVG Import into your label template Position correctly (top-right typical) Add quiet zone around barcode Print test batch Use Barcode Readability tool to validate quality If score >90%, print full batch

FAQ

Q: Can I use the same barcode on multiple labels?

Yes, but not recommended for tracking. Each shipment should have unique code. For testing, reusing is fine.

Q: What if I need to generate 1000 barcodes?

This tool generates one at a time. For bulk generation, use our eLabelCropper product which has batch barcode generation.

Q: Can I print these barcodes directly?

Yes. Download as PNG, insert into your label design, print normally.

Q: What barcode scanner apps work with these barcodes?

Any standard barcode scanner (hardware or smartphone app) that supports the format you used. Code128 works with all professional scanners.

Free Barcode Generator

Conclusion

"I was paying $50/month for barcode software. Now I use this free tool for all my custom barcode needs."

Creating custom barcodes doesn't require expensive software. Our generator lets you create professional, scannable barcodes in seconds.