How this barcode label generator works
Pick a format, type your number or text, and download the barcode. SVG is a vector file, so it stays sharp at any label size. PNG works everywhere, from Word to label printer software. You then place the barcode on your label layout with the tool you already use.
Right now the generator makes single barcodes. Printing a full sheet of different barcodes in one go is coming soon. For QR code stickers in bulk, our bulk QR code generator already turns a CSV into a ZIP of styled codes.
Every file is made in your browser, with no sign-up and no watermark, so the downloaded barcode is ready to use on commercial labels. The SVG has no background box, which makes it easy to place on coloured label stock, as long as the label itself is pale enough for good contrast.
How to print barcode labels
- Choose the format: Code 128 for stock and SKUs, EAN-13 or UPC-A for retail products.
- Type the value and download the barcode as SVG or PNG.
- Open your label template, such as an Avery template in Word or Avery Design & Print.
- Insert the barcode image into the first label and size it to fit, keeping white space either side.
- Print one test sheet on plain paper at 100% scale with fit to page turned off, hold it over a label sheet to check alignment, then scan a code before printing the batch.
Barcodes in Word, Excel and Google Sheets
- Word: Insert, Pictures, then choose your downloaded file. SVG stays crisp when you resize it. For label sheets, use Mailings, Labels, or open an Avery template.
- Excel: Insert, Pictures, then Place in Cell in recent Microsoft 365 versions, or Place over Cells in older ones. Size the row to fit.
- Google Sheets: Insert, Image, Image in cell, then upload the PNG. It moves and sorts with the row.
- Barcode fonts are the other route in spreadsheets, but they need start and stop characters and do not calculate check digits. An image from here avoids both problems.
Label printers and print shops
Thermal label printers from Zebra, Dymo and Brother come with software that imports PNG images. Use a PNG at the printer's own resolution, often 203 or 300 dpi, so the bars line up with the print head and edges stay sharp.
For printed stickers from services like Vistaprint, upload the SVG or a large PNG as part of your design. The same file works for QR code labels made in our QR code generator.
Scanning barcodes into Excel
Most USB and Bluetooth barcode scanners act like a keyboard. Click a cell in Excel or Google Sheets, scan, and the number is typed in, usually followed by Enter so the next cell is ready. No extra software needed. To read a barcode from a photo instead, use our online barcode scanner.
