Barcodes with ZPL
Complete guide for creating barcodes on Zebra printers
Barcodes in ZPL
ZPL supports a wide variety of 1D and 2D barcodes. Each type has its own commands and parameters. This guide will help you choose and implement the right barcode for your application.
Barcode types
Code 128
^BCHigh-density alphanumeric code. Ideal for logistics and shipping. Supports all ASCII characters.
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^BCN,100,Y,N,N^FD123ABC456^FS
Casos de uso:
- Shipping labels
- Product identification
- Serial numbers
QR Code
^BQTwo-dimensional code that can store large amounts of data. Ideal for URLs, contact information, and structured data.
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^BQN,2,5^FDMM,Ahttps://zplpdf.com^FS
Casos de uso:
- URLs and web links
- Product information
- Tickets and passes
EAN-13/UPC-A
^BE/^BUStandard codes for consumer products. EAN-13 uses 13 digits (Europe), UPC-A uses 12 digits (North America).
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^BEN,100,Y,N^FD5901234123457^FS
Casos de uso:
- Retail products
- Inventory
- Point of sale
Code 39
^B3Alphanumeric code widely used in industry and logistics. Easy to read but lower density than Code 128.
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^B3N,N,100,Y,N^FDABC123^FS
Casos de uso:
- Automotive industry
- Defense
- Healthcare
DataMatrix
^BXVery compact 2D code. Ideal for small spaces and direct part marking.
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^BXN,5,200^FDImportant data^FS
Casos de uso:
- Electronic components
- Pharmaceutical
- Small parts
PDF417
^B7Stacked 2D code that stores large amounts of data. Used in driver's licenses and identity documents.
Ejemplo de código:
^FO50,50^B7N,5,5,,,N^FDExtensive data here^FS
Casos de uso:
- Identity documents
- Airline boarding
- Forms
Barcode tips
- Always verify the barcode with a scanner before production
- Leave enough white space (quiet zone) around the code
- Use the appropriate module size for your scanner
- For shipping, Code 128 is generally the best choice
- 2D codes (QR, DataMatrix) are better for large amounts of data
Test your barcodes
Visualize and verify your ZPL barcodes with our free tools.