Code 128 Barcodes

Code 128 is a high-density, alphanumeric barcode symbology widely used in logistics, warehousing, and supply chain management. Unlike EAN-13 or UPC-A (which encode only numbers), Code 128 can encode all 128 ASCII characters – including letters, numbers, and special symbols. This makes it incredibly versatile for internal tracking, shipping labels, and asset management.

At Barcodes Uganda, we provide genuine Code 128 barcode numbers and high-quality images. Whether you need to track inventory, label shipments, or manage assets, we have you covered.

Important: Retail stores generally do not scan Code 128 barcodes at the checkout. For retail sales, you must use EAN-13 or UPC-A. Code 128 is for internal business processes – not for consumer POS.

Here you can purchase sequential  code 128 barcodes for asset tracking. These are used for library books and membership cards as well as asset tracking.

  • Code 128 Barcodes

    These will be supplied to you in 3 formats (PDF, PNG & SVG) via a shared drop box folder.

    Please give us the following information when you get to the checkout page (please put this information in the “additional information” section):

    • Tell us what sequence you want (e.g. 1000 – 1999 works well for a lot of 1000 barcodes). The sequence can either by alpha-numeric, or numeric only.
    • Tell us what size barcode images you want (e.g. 20mm high x 30mm wide)

    Code 128 barcodes are used for library books, membership cards, vouchers, SKU codes, internal inventory tracking, etc.

     

    Quantity (in thousands)    Price (per 1000) 
    1 200,000 UGX
    2 185,000 UGX
    3 165,000 UGX
    4 150,000 UGX

     

    NEW – A TAX OF 18% VAT will be Charged as required by Law

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Key Features of Code 128 Barcodes

Feature Benefit
High density Encodes more data in a smaller space than most other barcodes.
Alphanumeric support Encodes uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Self-checking Built-in error detection reduces misreads.
Variable length Can encode short or long data strings as needed.
Three start codes Allows different character sets for optimal data density

Common Applications

  • Shipping labels (UPS, FedEx, and other carriers use Code 128).

  • Inventory management – tracking stock within a warehouse.

  • Asset tagging – labelling equipment, tools, or vehicles.

  • Work-in-progress tracking – following items through production.

  • Loyalty cards – encoding membership numbers.

How Code 128 Differs from EAN-13 / UPC-A

Aspect Code 128 EAN-13 / UPC-A
Character set All 128 ASCII characters (letters, numbers, symbols) Numbers only (0–9)
Length Variable (up to many characters) Fixed (13 or 12 digits)
Primary use Internal tracking, logistics, shipping Retail point-of-sale (POS)
Global acceptance Widely used in supply chains Required for most retail stores
Human-readable text Usually shows the encoded data below the bars Shows the 13- or 12-digit number

What We Provide for Code 128

When you purchase Code 128 barcodes from us, you receive:

  • Your unique Code 128 number – generated to your specifications (alphanumeric or numeric).

  • High-quality images in multiple formats (PNG, SVG, PDF) – print-ready and scalable.

  • Instant digital delivery – download your images immediately after purchase.

  • Lifetime validity – your number is yours forever, with no annual fees.

Choosing the Right Code 128 Variant

Code 128 has three variants (A, B, and C). We generally provide Code 128 B (the most common), which supports uppercase/lowercase letters and numbers. If you need a specific variant, just let us know during checkout.

Variant Character Set Best For
Code 128 A Uppercase letters, numbers, control characters Older systems, ASCII control codes
Code 128 B Uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, symbols General use – most common
Code 128 C Numeric only (double density) Numeric data like serial numbers

Barcode Image Specifications

To ensure your Code 128 barcode scans reliably, follow these guidelines:

  • Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printed labels.

  • Quiet zone: Maintain at least 10x the narrow bar width on all sides.

  • Bar colour: Always black bars on a white background.

  • Height: Keep the barcode tall enough (minimum 0.5 inches) for easy scanning.

 

Code 128 barcodes look like this:

Code 128 barcode image sample

Code 128 barcodes can encode both numeric and alpha-numeric data. However some scanners are unable to read barcodes that contains alphabetic letters – therefore it is safest to only use numeric digits.

Note: Code 128 barcodes should not be used for products that are for sale in retail stores (retail products need EAN barcodes).