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Free Online CODE 128C Barcode Generator

CODE128C Mode

Code 128 Set C packs numeric data by encoding two digits per symbol, producing the densest Code 128 labels for long GTIN-style numbers and serial strings. Enter an even count of digits, validate, and export compact barcode images for logistics.

1. Enter barcode data

0 entries · Blank lines ignored · Duplicate values detected

2. Choose barcode settings

Barcode preview

Download settings

What is a CODE128C barcode?

CODE128C is the numeric subset of Code 128 that encodes data in pairs of digits (00 through 99) in a single symbol width. Because each pair consumes less space than separate characters in Set A or B, Set C is preferred for long numeric strings such as container codes, extended serial numbers, and logistics references that contain no letters.

Recommended generator settings

These defaults work well for preview and download. Adjust to match your label template or scanner tests.

Bar width Start at 2; increase only if scans fail at your print size
Height 100 px or taller for warehouse and logistics labels
Quiet zone Keep the default margin unless your spec defines a different quiet zone
Readable text Leave enabled when operators verify values manually
Output format PNG for design files; JPEG for documents and quick sharing

Practical examples

  • 123456789012
  • 004521008765
  • 990011223344

When should you use CODE128C?

  • Long numeric shipment or container references on warehouse labels
  • Serial number strings that contain digits only and must fit a narrow label
  • Label exports that explicitly specify Code 128 Subset C
  • Batch printing of numeric pick-list or tote identifiers

Limitations and common mistakes

If the value includes letters or an odd digit count without a leading pad, use CODE128B or standard CODE128 instead. Fixed retail product numbers may require EAN-13 or UPC-A.

  • Including letters or symbols when this format accepts digits only.
  • Entering an odd number of digits when the encoder expects digit pairs.
  • Trimming quiet zones when cropping the image for a label layout.
  • Scaling the barcode unevenly so bar width ratios no longer match the generated image.

Related formats

CODE128C vs ITF-14

Format Best for Supported data Key difference
Code 128 Warehouse and inventory labels where the encoded value mixes letters and numbers Printable ASCII (codes 33–126) Letters, digits, and common punctuation within printable ASCII.
Code 128 Set B Mixed-case SKU or order references on packing slips and pick lists Printable ASCII (space through ~, codes 32–126) Uppercase and lowercase letters with digits and punctuation.
ITF-14 Corrugated case labels in wholesale and retail distribution Exactly 14 digits Fixed 14-digit interleaved 2 of 5 symbol for case and carton labeling.

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Printing and scanning notes

Printing

  • Pad with a leading zero to reach an even digit count when your spec allows.
  • Print at sufficient height; dense numeric symbols still need vertical bar depth.
  • Verify quiet zones after label applicators trim edges.

Scanning

  • Confirm scanners expect Code 128 rather than ITF for your numeric payload.
  • Leading zeros are significant; do not strip them before encoding.
  • Test odd-length source data conversion rules with your WMS before bulk printing.

Frequently asked questions

Set C encodes two digits per symbol. An odd count cannot be paired without shifting subsets.

No. Set C is numeric only. Use CODE128B for alphanumeric data.

Add a leading zero when your specification allows padding to an even length.

GS1-128 may use Set C for numeric application identifiers, but this tool only renders the image from your entered digits.

Set C typically produces a narrower symbol for the same numeric data because it packs two digits per code word.

Yes. Each line must contain digits only with an even total length.

Yes. Enter one even-length numeric value per line.