Barcode Generator

Code-16K barcode generator

Multi-row stacked barcode based on Code-128.

Terms of use: this site only turns the data you type into a barcode; it does not create, verify, register or store that data, and nothing is sent to any server. The content you enter and the use of the generated barcodes are solely the user's responsibility, including the right to use GTIN/EAN numbers (licensed by GS1), the accuracy of the information and compliance with applicable law. Links with dangerous schemes and typical attack patterns (scripts, SQL injection) are blocked, but this does not replace your own checks. By using the generator you accept these terms.

One barcode per line, up to 50 at once.

Code-16K options
Size
Appearance

Preview

PDF and AI are vector files in CMYK, with black as C0 M0 Y0 K100. PNG, JPG and SVG are RGB.

Test every barcode before use. The user is solely responsible for the accuracy of the barcode.

Code-16K specification

Code-16K is a stacked barcode with 2 to 16 rows, each with 5 characters following the Code-128 pattern. It was created in 1988 to encode a lot of data in little space.

  • Characters: the whole ASCII set (0 to 127).
  • Capacity: up to 77 alphanumeric characters or 154 digits.
  • Height of each row: 8X by default (recommended minimum), adjustable up to 20X.
  • Rows are numbered and check digits are calculated automatically. It requires a scanner that supports stacked barcodes.

How to use

  1. Type the content. To create several barcodes, put one per line.
  2. Adjust size, height, margin and colors. The preview follows every change.
  3. Download each barcode in the format you need, or all of them as a ZIP.

In PDF, SVG and AI the size is set by the module X — the width of the narrowest bar, in millimetres. The default for this symbology is 0.33 mm. PNG and JPG use the chosen pixel resolution. If your printer warns about ink spread, increase the bar width reduction.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Code-16K barcode?

Code-16K is a stacked barcode with 2 to 16 rows, each with 5 characters following the Code-128 pattern. It was created in 1988 to encode a lot of data in little space.

What can a Code-16K barcode contain?

Characters: the whole ASCII set (0 to 127).

How do I create a Code-16K barcode for free?

Type the data in the generator on this page, adjust size and colors, and download the barcode as PNG, JPG, SVG, PDF or Adobe Illustrator (AI). PDF and AI are vector files in CMYK with 100% K black, ready for print. Everything runs in your browser: nothing is uploaded and no sign-up is needed.

What size should a printed Code-16K barcode be?

The vector size is defined by the module X (narrowest bar). This generator uses 0.33 mm by default for Code-16K; you can change it before downloading.

Share this page

Like it? Support the site

Keeping the generator free has costs. Any amount helps.