Barcode format guide

What Is Code 39?

Code 39 is a linear barcode symbology known for supporting letters, numbers, and a defined set of special characters. It has been used in industrial, manufacturing, inventory, and identification workflows.

What can Code 39 encode?

Code 39 can represent digits, uppercase letters, spaces, and several special characters. Its relatively simple character set is one reason it remains useful in established operational systems.

Where is Code 39 used?

Common applications include industrial identification, inventory labels, asset tracking, manufacturing environments, and systems that already expect Code 39 data. The correct symbology should always be chosen according to the receiving system's requirements.

Code 39 vs Code 128

Both are linear barcodes, but Code 128 provides higher data density and broader character support. If you control the workflow, compare the scanner and system requirements before choosing. For a direct comparison, see Code 128 vs Code 39.

Create a Code 39 barcode

Use BarcodeYard's free Code 39 Barcode Generator to enter your data and export a barcode.