This Code 39 barcode generator encodes A to Z, 0 to 9, space and - . $ / + % (the 43 Code 39 characters, up to 40 characters here) into a Code 39 barcode and lets you download it as PNG or SVG. Lowercase letters are changed to uppercase, and the start and stop characters are added for you.
How to make a Code 39 barcode
- Type the text, such as a part number or an ID.
- Set the bar height and size, and choose whether to show the text.
- Download the PNG or SVG file, or print it.
What is Code 39?
Code 39, also called Code 3 of 9, is a linear barcode defined in ISO/IEC 16388. Each character is made of 9 elements (5 bars and 4 spaces), 3 of which are wide, which gives the code its name. Every Code 39 barcode starts and ends with an asterisk (*), so the asterisk cannot be part of the data.
Code 39 character set
| Group | Characters |
|---|---|
| Digits | 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 |
| Letters | A to Z (uppercase only) |
| Symbols | space - . $ / + % |
That is 43 characters in total. For lowercase letters or more symbols, Code 128 is the better choice.
Code 39 vs Code 128
Code 39 is simple and is still read by almost every scanner, which is why older industrial, government and ID systems use it. Code 128 encodes the full ASCII set and makes a shorter barcode for the same data. For new labels, the Code 128 generator is usually the better pick.
What Code 39 is used for
Part numbers, employee and visitor badges, library and asset tags, and systems that were set up for Code 39 years ago. To label a whole list, use the bulk barcode generator and choose Code 39.
Is it private?
Yes. The barcode is drawn in your browser and the text is not sent to our server.
Tips for Code 39 labels
- Keep the text short; Code 39 gets wide quickly.
- Use only the 43 characters; lowercase is changed to uppercase.
- Leave blank space at both ends.
- Keep the text under the bars on for manual entry.
- Test with the scanner your system uses.
Related tools
Frequently asked questions
Can Code 39 hold lowercase letters?
No. Standard Code 39 has uppercase letters only, so lowercase is converted to uppercase here.
Do I type the asterisks?
No. The start and stop asterisks are added for you.
How long can a Code 39 barcode be?
This page accepts up to 40 characters. Longer codes become too wide for most labels.
Is Code 39 the same as Code 3 of 9?
Yes. They are two names for the same barcode.
Should I use Code 39 or Code 128?
Use Code 39 when your scanner or system requires it. Otherwise Code 128 is more compact.