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Free SKU Barcode Generator

Create Code 128 barcodes for custom SKU values, product codes, and inventory labels.

Barcode Type

Best for SKUs and inventory

Processed in your browser. Not uploaded.

Print PDFs at 100% scale.

Label options Optional

Valid Code 128 barcode. Good for SKUs and inventory labels.

This looks like a custom SKU. Code 128 is recommended.

Preview

Ready
SKU-001

SKU-001

What is a SKU barcode?

A SKU barcode is a scannable version of your own stock keeping unit. It helps small businesses, warehouses, and retail teams track products, shelves, assets, and internal inventory without turning the SKU itself into a retail UPC or EAN code.

Best barcode type for SKUs

Code 128 is usually the best barcode type for custom SKU values because it supports letters, numbers, and symbols.

  • Use Code 128 for SKU-001, ITEM-XL-2026, BLACK-TSHIRT-M, and similar internal values.
  • Use UPC-A for standard 12-digit US retail product codes.
  • Use EAN-13 for standard 13-digit international retail product codes.

SKU barcode examples

These are common SKU and inventory code patterns that work well as Code 128 barcodes.

  • SKU-001
  • ITEM-2026-XL
  • BLACK-TSHIRT-M
  • WAREHOUSE-A-1001

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about creating, downloading, and printing barcodes with this tool.

What barcode type should I use for SKUs?

Code 128 is usually the best choice for SKU barcodes because it supports letters, numbers, dashes, underscores, and other common SKU characters.

Can a SKU contain letters and numbers?

Yes. Many SKU values mix letters and numbers, such as SKU-001 or BLACK-TSHIRT-M. Use Code 128 for these custom alphanumeric values.

Can I create SKU barcode labels?

Yes. Generate a SKU barcode, then use the Barcode Label Generator to create product, inventory, or warehouse labels as printable PDF sheets.

Can I generate SKU barcodes in bulk?

Yes. Use the Bulk Barcode Generator for one SKU per line, or the Barcode Generator for Excel when your SKUs are stored in a spreadsheet.

Should I use Code 128, UPC, or EAN for SKUs?

Use Code 128 for your own SKU or inventory codes. Use UPC-A or EAN-13 only when you have standard numeric retail product codes.

Switch to the barcode format that matches your product or inventory workflow.