The Code 39 (3 of 9) Barcode Guide
Reliable alphanumeric simplicity. Master the classic discrete symbology used in military, automotive, and industrial asset tracking systems.
What is Code 39?
Code 39 (also known as 3 of 9) is one of the oldest and most widely used alphanumeric barcodes. It's often preferred for internal equipment tracking and permanent metal asset tags because of its robust structure and the fact that it doesn't require a mandatory checksum digit for basic operations.
Code 39 Asset Tag Generator
Use the tool below to generate high-resolution Code 39 labels. Use the Inventory Import mode to create hundreds of asset tags instantly from your equipment database.
Asset Tag Preview
ASSET-1025
Start and Stop Asterisks
Every Code 39 barcode must begin and end with an asterisk (*) character. These characters serve as start and stop symbols, instructing the scanner when to begin interpreting data. Our generator automatically handles these characters for you.
Discrete Character Set
Code 39 is a "discrete" symbology, meaning each character is separated by a small gap (intercharacter gap) and can be interpreted independently. It natively supports 43 characters:
- Uppercase Letters: A through Z.
- Digits: 0 through 9.
- Symbols: Space, Dash (-), Period (.), Dollar ($), Slash (/), Plus (+), Percent (%).