Code 93 Barcode Generator

Make Code 93 barcodes, a denser cousin of Code 39 with two built-in check characters. Used in logistics and by Canada Post.

A–Z, 0–9, space and - . $ / + %

Change the bar width, height and text here. The barcode on the left is drawn at the size it will print, so at 100% zoom it should match a ruler held to the screen.

PNG and JPG files store their resolution, so Word, Canva and label software place them at this size.

Colours

Dark bars on a light background scan best. Most scanners use red light, so red, orange and yellow bars read as blank.

What is Code 93?

Code 93 was designed in 1982 as a more compact, more secure version of Code 39. It encodes the same characters (capital letters, digits, space and a few symbols) in about two thirds of the width, and adds two check characters, called C and K, so misreads are very rare. The check characters are part of the barcode but aren't printed in the text below it.

CharactersA–Z, 0–9, space and - . $ / + %
Check charactersTwo (C and K), always included
WidthAbout 9 modules per character, narrower than Code 39
Used forLogistics labels, Canada Post, some electronics and retail systems

Code 93 or Code 128?

Code 128 is denser still, holds lower-case letters and is read by every scanner, so it's the better choice for new systems. Choose Code 93 when a customer, carrier or existing system asks for it.

How to make one

  1. Type your code. Lower-case letters are converted to capitals.
  2. Keep the standard bar width unless your printer or labels need wider bars.
  3. Download and test with the scanner that will read it. Some older scanners have Code 93 switched off by default.
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse
Pallet racking in a distribution warehouse.

Questions

  • Yes, two of them (C and K). They're added automatically.

  • Full ASCII Code 93 can, using shift characters, but many scanners don't support it. This tool uses the standard character set and converts letters to capitals.

  • Many scanners ship with Code 93 turned off. Turn it on in the scanner's settings, usually by scanning a configuration barcode from its manual.