Code 39 generator
Also known as: Code 3 of 9
Older alphanumeric code still required by some defense, automotive and government systems.
Print settings (PDF/EPS vector)
BWR compensates for dot gain on press β bars are drawn narrower in the file so they come out right on paper. Ask your printer for the recommended value (typical: 10β40 ΞΌm offset, 0 for thermal labels). Applies to PDF/EPS; SVG exports in black and white for screen use.
PDF/EPS are true vector with CMYK and BWR β press-ready. PNG/JPG export in high resolution for screen and office printers.
About Code 39
Code 39 was long the industry standard for alphanumeric marking. It encodes AβZ, 0β9 and a few special characters, without a mandatory checksum. The code is sparse (takes a lot of space per character) and today is used mainly where legacy requirement documents specify it β for example AIAG and military marking standards.
Used for
- Automotive industry labels (AIAG)
- Legacy warehouse and document systems
- Asset marking
Frequently asked questions
Should new systems use Code 39?
No β choose Code 128 unless you have an external requirement for Code 39. Code 128 is more compact and has a built-in checksum.