Code 39 (also known as Alpha39, Code 3 of 9, Code 3/9, Type 39, USS Code 39, or USD-3) is a variable length, discrete barcode symbology. Code 39 defines 43 characters, consisting of:

• uppercase letters (A - Z)
• numeric digits (0 - 9)
• a number of special characters (-, ., $, /, +, %, and space).

Each character is composed of nine elements: five bars and four spaces.

Three of the nine elements in each character are wide (binary value 1), and six elements are narrow (binary value 0). The width ratio between narrow and wide can be chosen between 1:2 and 1:3.

Code 39 barcode labels are widely used and can be decoded with virtually any barcode reader.

One advantage of Code 39 is that since there is no need to generate a check digit, it can easily be integrated into existing printing system by adding a barcode font to the system or printer and then printing the raw data in that font.

Other common barcode label types include:

• code 128 (commonly used for counting and box labels)
• European Article Number (EAN 8)
• European Article Number (EAN 13)
• UPC (Universal Product Code)
• ITF

To order barcode labels please telephone us on: +44 (0)1902 635 106 or request a call-back.