Guide and tool
Barcode labels for warehouse inventory
Turn SKU, location and carton identifiers into consistent labels without sending inventory data to an external server.
Generate labels from CSVHow it works
- Export products or locations to CSV
- Validate Code 128 or ITF-14 values
- Print sheets or thermal labels
Choose a barcode for the operational job
The best symbol depends on what the label identifies and where it will be scanned. Internal shelf, bin and SKU values usually fit Code 128. Trade-item cartons with an assigned GTIN-14 can use ITF-14. Logistics data such as a shipment identifier, batch or expiry date requires an appropriate GS1 carrier and agreed Application Identifiers.
Do not invent retail or logistics identifiers in the generator. It validates and renders values supplied by your business; allocation rules remain with the owner of the numbering system.
| Use case | Typical choice | Important condition |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf, bin or internal SKU | Code 128 | Use a unique value from your WMS or ERP |
| Trade-item carton | ITF-14 | Encode a valid assigned GTIN-14 |
| GTIN plus batch or expiry | GS1-128 / GS1 DataMatrix | Use defined Application Identifiers |
| Link to mobile product data | QR Code | Ensure staff scanners and workflow support URLs |
Build a clean CSV source
Keep one row per product, location or handling unit. Map the value, type, name, description and copies columns before generation. The preview marks invalid records so they can be corrected or excluded without stopping the whole batch.
Use stable location names such as zone-aisle-bay-level and avoid visually ambiguous characters where operators may type the value manually. Generate copies from the source record instead of duplicating rows; this keeps the error report and later updates easier to audit.
Verify labels in the real workflow
Test labels with the handheld scanners, distances and lighting used on site. A barcode that scans from a monitor may still fail when printed too small, covered by glossy film, curved around an edge or damaged by handling.
Keep strong dark-on-light contrast and clear quiet zones. Place human-readable text near the symbol so an operator can recover when scanning is unavailable, but never allow the text or a border to enter the barcode area.
- Scan the first and last label from every generated batch.
- Check receiving, picking and replenishment workflows separately.
- Record the template, printer, media and successful scale setting.
Frequently asked questions
Which barcode works best in a warehouse?
Code 128 is a strong general choice for internal SKU and location labels. ITF-14 is intended for trade-item cartons carrying a GTIN-14.
Can I put a batch and expiry date in Code 128?
A private Code 128 format can work inside one controlled system. For data exchanged with partners, use an agreed GS1 carrier and Application Identifiers.
Is CSV data uploaded to a server?
No. Import, validation and export are performed locally in the browser, so the inventory file does not need to leave the device.