How to Generate Code 128 Barcode Font for Excel

Last updated: Dec 20, 2023

In this article, we will learn to generate code 128 barcode font for Excel. There are some methods to use code 128 barcode font in Excel, but most are challenging to apply and don’t work on all versions of Excel. Today, we will demonstrate a method to generate code 128 barcode font with easy steps in Excel. After reading the article, you will be able to use code 128 barcode font very easily. So, without any delay, let’s start the discussion now.

Note: The given VBA user-defined function Code128 can only be used in the Windows operating system. It will not work properly in Mac OS.

What Is Code 128 Barcode Font?

Code 128 is a modern and famous barcode font. Its popularity is increasing day by day because it is a high-density barcode font that supports alphanumeric characters.

Generally, code 128 consists of seven sections. They are:

Quiet Zone
Start Symbol
Encoded Data
Check Symbol
Stop Symbol
Final Bar
Quiet Zone

The code 128 barcode font has 3 subsets. They are described briefly below:

Code 128A: It supports ASCII without lowercase characters.
Code 128B: It supports ASCII without the initial special characters.
Code 128C: This subset supports Numeric Values.

To explain the steps, we will use a dataset that contains information about some products and their data. Using the method, we will try to generate barcodes with Code 128 font for the data of each product.

STEP 1: Downloading Code 128 Font

First of all, you need to download Code 128.
After that, extract the downloaded folder to the C:\Windows\Fonts folder.
Otherwise, unzip the downloaded folder, copy the Code 128 font and paste it to the C:\Windows\Fonts folder.
Also, select Continue if the administrator permissions window appears.

STEP 2: Using Excel VBA to Create User-Defined Function

Secondly, go to the Developer tab in the ribbon and select Visual Basic.
As a result, it will open the Visual Basic window.

After that, select Insert and then Module in the Visual Basic window.
At this moment, the Module window will appear.

Now, we need to type a code in the Module window.
You can copy it from below and paste it into the Module window:

Option Explicit
Public Function Code128(SourceString As String)
    Dim Counter As Integer
    Dim CheckSum As Long
    Dim mini As Integer
    Dim dummy As Integer
    Dim UseTableB As Boolean
    Dim Code128_Barcode As String
    If Len(SourceString) > 0 Then
        For Counter = 1 To Len(SourceString)
            Select Case Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter, 1))
                Case 32 To 126, 203
                Case Else
                    MsgBox "Invalid character in barcode string" & vbCrLf & vbCrLf & "Please only use standard ASCII characters", vbCritical
                    Code128 = ""
                    Exit Function
            End Select
        Next
        Code128_Barcode = ""
        UseTableB = True
        Counter = 1
        Do While Counter <= Len(SourceString)
            If UseTableB Then
                mini = IIf(Counter = 1 Or Counter + 3 = Len(SourceString), 4, 6)
                GoSub testnum
                If mini% < 0 Then
                    If Counter = 1 Then
                        Code128_Barcode = Chr(205)
                    Else
                        Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Chr(199)
                    End If
                    UseTableB = False
                Else
                    If Counter = 1 Then Code128_Barcode = Chr(204)
                End If
            End If
            If Not UseTableB Then
                mini% = 2
                GoSub testnum
                If mini% < 0 Then
                    dummy% = Val(Mid(SourceString, Counter, 2))
                    dummy% = IIf(dummy% < 95, dummy% + 32, dummy% + 100)
                    Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Chr(dummy%)
                    Counter = Counter + 2
                Else
                    Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Chr(200)
                    UseTableB = True
                End If
            End If
            If UseTableB Then
                Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Mid(SourceString, Counter, 1)
                Counter = Counter + 1
            End If
        Loop
        For Counter = 1 To Len(Code128_Barcode)
            dummy% = Asc(Mid(Code128_Barcode, Counter, 1))
            dummy% = IIf(dummy% < 127, dummy% - 32, dummy% - 100)
            If Counter = 1 Then CheckSum& = dummy%
            CheckSum& = (CheckSum& + (Counter - 1) * dummy%) Mod 103
        Next
        CheckSum& = IIf(CheckSum& < 95, CheckSum& + 32, CheckSum& + 100)
        Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Chr(CheckSum&) & Chr$(206)
    End If
    Code128 = Code128_Barcode
    Exit Function
testnum:
        mini% = mini% - 1
        If Counter + mini% <= Len(SourceString) Then
            Do While mini% >= 0
                If Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter + mini%, 1)) < 48 Or Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter + mini%, 1)) > 57 Then Exit Do
            mini% = mini% - 1
            Loop
        End If
        Return
End Function

VBA Code Explanation:

In this code, we will create a function that will convert a string to barcodes. Here, we will use the Code 128 font.

The input parameter is a string.
In the output, we will get a barcode in the Code 128 font if the string is valid.
Otherwise, it will display an empty string.

Public Function Code128(SourceString As String)

This part denotes the function name and it is Code128(). You need to insert the string inside the parentheses.

Dim Counter As Integer
Dim CheckSum As Long
Dim mini As Integer
Dim dummy As Integer
Dim UseTableB As Boolean
Dim Code128_Barcode As String

These are the variables that will be used in the code.

If Len(SourceString) > 0 Then
For Counter = 1 To Len(SourceString)
Select Case Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter, 1))
Case 32 To 126, 203
Case Else
MsgBox "Invalid character in barcode string" & vbCrLf & vbCrLf & "Please only use standard ASCII characters", vbCritical
Code128 = ""
Exit Function
End Select
Next

In this section, the code will check for valid characters. If it finds no valid character, then, it will ask the user to use standard ASCII characters.

For Counter = 1 To Len(Code128_Barcode)
dummy% = Asc(Mid(Code128_Barcode, Counter, 1))
dummy% = IIf(dummy% < 127, dummy% - 32, dummy% - 100)
If Counter = 1 Then CheckSum& = dummy%
CheckSum& = (CheckSum& + (Counter - 1) * dummy%) Mod 103
Next

Here, this part calculates the value of the CheckSum variable.

CheckSum& = IIf(CheckSum& < 95, CheckSum& + 32, CheckSum& + 100)
Code128_Barcode = Code128_Barcode & Chr(CheckSum&) & Chr$(206)
End If

In this part, the code calculates the CheckSum ASCII code. After adding the ASCII code, it moves to the next part.

mini% = mini% - 1
If Counter + mini% <= Len(SourceString) Then
Do While mini% >= 0
If Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter + mini%, 1)) < 48 Or Asc(Mid(SourceString, Counter + mini%, 1)) > 57 Then Exit Do
mini% = mini% - 1
Loop
End If

In the last part, the code will check for the numeric values inside the given string.

This VBA code was found from myonlinetraininghub.com.

After typing the code, press Ctrl + S to save it.
In the following step, close the Visual Basic window.

STEP 3: Using Code 128 Function

Thirdly, we need to use the function that we created by applying the VBA.
In order to do that, select Cell D5 and type the formula below:

=Code128(C5)

Here, the function will convert the data of Cell C5 into a barcode.

In the following step, press Enter to see the result.

STEP 4: Changing Excel Theme Font and Size

In the fourth step, you need to change the font and size.
For that purpose, select Cell C5.
Then, go to the Home tab and select Code 128 in the font theme box.
Also, select 36 in the font size box.

Read More: How to Add Barcode Font in Excel

STEP 5: Resizing Column Width and Row Height

After changing the font theme and size, we need to resize column width and row height.
In our case, we have set the width of Column D to 30 and the Row Height to 50.

STEP 6: Using Fill Handle to Copy the Formula

In the following step, select Cell D5 and drag the Fill Handle down to the rest of the cells.

Final Output of Code 128 Barcode Font for Excel

Finally, change the Row Height of Row 6,7,8, and 9 to 50.
After finishing all the steps, you will see results like the picture below.

Download Practice Book

You can download the practice book from here.

Code 128 Barcode Font.xlsm

Conclusion

In this article, we have demonstrated step-by-step procedures to generate Code 128 Barcode Font for Excel. I hope this article will help you to create barcodes easily. Moreover, you can use the workbook to practice. In order to do so, download the workbook. We have added the workbook at the beginning of the article. Last of all, if you have any suggestions or queries, feel free to ask in the comment section below.

<< Go Back to Barcode in Excel | Learn Excel

Get FREE Advanced Excel Exercises with Solutions!

Private Sub Worksheet_SelectionChange(ByVal Target As Range) For row_no = 1 To 100 If Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Value = "Duplicate" Then Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Font.Name = "Calibri" Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Font.Size = 11 End If Next End Sub

Sub ActivateFirstBlankCell() Dim cell As Range ' Loop through each cell in the range D5:D11 For Each cell In Range("D5:D11") ' Check if the cell is blank If cell.Value = "" Then ' Activate the blank cell cell.Activate Exit Sub ' Exit the loop once the first blank cell is found End If Next cell End Sub

Sub ActivateFirstBlankCell() Dim cell As Range ' Loop through each cell in the range A1:A5 For Each cell In Range("A1:A5") ' Check if the cell is blank If cell.Value = "" Then ' Activate the blank cell cell.Activate Exit Sub ' Exit the loop once the first blank cell is found End If Next cell End Sub

66 Comments

Dom Jul 5, 2022 at 7:51 AM

Hi Martin,

I’m looking at this as an ad-hoc solution for low-use barcodes. When comparing to current barcode examples, the start-tags do not appear correctly on my barcodes.

Thanks,
Dom
- Reply
  Mursalin Jul 19, 2022 at 4:20 PM
  
  Hello, Dom!
  Thanks for your feedback. If you are facing any problems generating code 128 barcode font in Excel, then you can ask here. We will try to reply to you as soon as possible.
  Thanks!
  - Reply
    Omar del valle Jun 20, 2023 at 11:42 AM
    
    Hello, thank you very much for your contribution, it is great. But is it possible to add a function so that when the same code is read twice, it throws me a message saying that it is duplicated?
    - Mashhura Jahan Jun 21, 2023 at 9:41 AM
      
      Hi OMAR DEL VALLE,
      Thanks for your comment. I am replying to you on behalf of ExcelDemy. You can apply the following formula for finding duplicate barcodes.
      
      =IF(COUNTIF($C$5:C5,C5)>1,"Duplicate",Code128(C5))
      
      But, here the duplicates are also in Code 128 font to change that follow these steps.
      • Right-click on the sheet name >> select View Code.
      
      • Write the following code.
      
      Private Sub Worksheet_SelectionChange(ByVal Target As Range) For row_no = 1 To 100 If Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Value = "Duplicate" Then Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Font.Name = "Calibri" Range("D5").Cells(row_no, 1).Font.Size = 11 End If Next End Sub
      
      • Now, just drag the Fill Handle and you will get your desired result.
      
      I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know if you have other queries.
      Regards
      Mashhura Jahan
      ExcelDemy.
Chris Jul 19, 2022 at 10:39 PM

Hello. I’m attempting to create a barcode that also include the numeric 0. 02628107336750 as an example. How can I use this article to achieve this result.
- Reply
  Mursalin Aug 14, 2022 at 12:29 PM
  
  Dear CHRIS,
  Thanks for your comment. Excel omits the leading zero by default. So, it’s not possible to get the desired barcode.
  • To solve this, you must add an apostrophe (‘) in front of the leading zero.
  • So, select Cell C5 in the VBA sheet of the workbook.
  • Type ‘02628107336750 in Cell C5.
  • Press Enter.
  • You will get your results in Cell D5.
  I hope this will help you to solve your problem.
  Thanks.
Neil Cochran Aug 2, 2022 at 3:53 AM

I am using your VB code to generate the following barcode output – Õ46G4YŒ
However the Õ and the Œ, at the beginning and the end do not change into barcodes when the code128 font is applied, they stay as alphanumberic characters. What am I doing wrong?
- Reply
  Mursalin Aug 14, 2022 at 12:30 PM
  
  Dear NEIL,
  Thanks for your comment. Code 128 barcode font has 106 unique representations and supports standard ASCII characters. Unfortunately, Õ and Œ – these two characters are not supported by code 128 barcode font. But you can try other barcode fonts to solve this issue. You can use the free online barcode generator for that purpose. I hope this will help you to solve your problem.
  Thanks.
Crisna Aug 17, 2022 at 8:28 PM

Hello!
How can I generate the barcode with the ASCII characters below the barcode on same cell.
Thanks
- Reply
  Mursalin Aug 22, 2022 at 10:55 AM
  
  Hello CRISNA,
  Thanks for your comment. You can’t generate the text below the barcode with the code 128 font we used here. But you can use the Libre Barcode 128 Text font for that. Also, you can follow this article https://www.exceldemy.com/generate-barcode-numbers-in-excel/ to generate characters below the barcode. I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know your queries if you face any issues.
  Thanks.
Michael Aug 24, 2022 at 12:53 AM

Hello,
I’m hoping to insert a Horizontal Tab in between two strings using your method, “XXXX.1TAB123456” with the intent of using one barcode to enter two separate fields
Is there a special character or function to be implemented to do this? Or is it even possible?
Thank you!
- Reply
  Mursalin Aug 25, 2022 at 2:11 PM
  
  Dear MICHAEL,
  Thanks for your comment. You can insert a Tab using “~009” inside the string. For example, XXXX.1TAB123456 can be written as XXXX.1~009123456. But unfortunately, it will not show two separate fields in one barcode. From my understanding, you need to use other barcode fonts for that purpose.
  Otherwise, you can look at the solution below. But this solution will not provide you with one barcode. Here, we tried to concatenate two separate barcodes in one cell. Here, we will use the dataset below.
  
  Let’s follow the steps below for the solution.
  ● Firstly, change the fields into barcode strings.
  ● To do so, select Cell D5 and type the formula below:
  =Code128(B5)
  
  ● Also, do the same for the second field.
  
  ● After that, select Cell B7 and type the formula below:
  =CONCAT(D5,CHAR(9),E5)
  
  ● Hit Enter to see the result.
  
  ● Now, select Cell B7 again and change the font theme to Code 128.
  ● Also, adjust the font size.
  
  ● Finally, you will get results like the picture below.
  
  I hope this solution will help benefit you to some extent. Please let us know if you face any other issues.
  Thanks!
Rick Sep 28, 2022 at 10:33 PM

Is there similar VBA code for Microsoft Word? Trying to get this font(code 128) to work with a mail merge.
Mursalin Oct 3, 2022 at 5:12 PM

Hi RICK,

Thanks for your comment. Unfortunately, there is no similar VBA code for Microsoft Word. You need to use the VBA in Excel to get the barcode using Code 128. But you can follow the link below to use code 128 barcode font in Microsoft Word.
https://www.exceldemy.com/print-barcode-labels-in-excel/#Step_4_Generating_and_Printing_Barcode_Labels

I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know if you face any other issues.
Thanks!
Dawid Oct 4, 2022 at 4:21 PM

When I’m trying to convert numbers to barcode im getting errors. For example number 192697
gives Í3:ĹWÎ where Ĺ is not barcode, the same is with 194898 which gives output Í3PĆĘÎ – when font changed to code128 it still shows ĆĘ in middle. How can I solve that – there must be some error in VBA…
- Reply
  Mursalin Oct 10, 2022 at 4:31 PM
  
  Hi DAWID,
  
  Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear that you are not getting the desired output. I have tried to convert 192697 and 194898 to barcodes using the same code. In my case, it worked. You can see the result below:
  
  I am also attaching the Excel file below:
  Answer.xlsm
  Moreover, the VBA code is not error-free. It can introduce errors sometimes. You can copy the code and paste it into a new workbook. It may help you to get the desired results.
  I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know if you have other queries.
  Thanks!
Kieran Oct 16, 2022 at 3:23 AM

Hello. Thank you for posting this. I have folowed the procedure and it doesnt generate the desired readable barcode. It creates the correct text: ÌA00M2Ç@A8Î
but when the font is changed to code 128 it creates a barcode that is not scannable.

Any thoughts?
- Reply
  Mursalin Oct 17, 2022 at 12:05 PM
  
  Hi KIERAN,
  
  Thanks for your comment. This is Mursalin from Exceldemy. I am not quite sure why you are getting a barcode that is not scannable. Because in my case, after changing the text to Code 128, I am getting the desired scannable barcode.
  
  It will be helpful for me if you provide the Excel file or an image in the comment section. Or you can send the Excel file to [email protected]. I hope I can give a solution after watching the file.
  Thanks!
freejojoey Oct 19, 2022 at 4:13 AM

This was not very helpful for people like me who do not have the Developer tab on their menu in Excel. I don’t understand why my characters for the barcode is %P+999-807989$ and when I change the font setting on that field to code 128, the barcode scanner cannot read it.
- Reply
  Mursalin Oct 20, 2022 at 3:54 PM
  
  Hi FREEJOJOEY,
  
  Sorry to hear about your problem. I am replying to you on behalf of Exceldemy. The Developer tab is not included in the ribbon by default. But you can easily add it. To add the Developer tab, please the steps of the link below:
  Get Developer Tab
  After inserting the Developer tab, follow the steps of the article. If you follow the steps correctly, you will get the scannable barcodes. You must insert the VBA using the Developer tab as stated in STEP 2 for getting the correct characters.
  
  Thanks!
Casey Oct 25, 2022 at 9:36 PM

I’m on MAC and just opening up your example if I click on the cell and then off changes the bar code.

Note the << and the CE below. This is on your data first row. A00M23233.

ÃA00M2«@A8Œ

Does this have to do with MAC UF8? Anyway to fix it?
Akib Oct 26, 2022 at 11:38 AM

Hi Casey,
You may not get the desired output if you download the excel file attached to this article and perform operations.

1. You must download the barcode font. The link is in the 1st step of this article
2. Also, code 128 has 106 distinct characters. Œ is not available in code 128.
Maybe these are the 2 issues that need to be resolved.
However, if these don’t satisfy you, please let us know.
Have a great day!
Myles Oct 27, 2022 at 5:45 AM

What a cool bit of code! It’s working fine so far and it was truly free.
I’m using code 128 in Excel. It’s pretty simple for the SKU’s we are working with.
Thank you So Much!
I’ll reply back if I find an issue and will bookmark this page to check for updates.
- Reply
  Mursalin Oct 30, 2022 at 3:48 PM
  
  Hi MYLES,
  
  Thanks for your comment. We are very glad to know that we could be of help to you. Let us know if you have any queries.
  
  Good luck.
jacek Nov 4, 2022 at 11:57 PM

Hi Mursalin. Becasue i have problem with formula while im generating code128 characters i download also workbook from your entry Oct 10, 2022 at 4:31 PM. Problem is also there. For meny antry im receiving not recognizing characters in barcode. You can try for example 456987321596328 Go you have any idea how to solve it?
- Reply
  Guria Nov 6, 2022 at 4:25 PM
  
  Hi Jacek,
  Thank you for sharing your query. To solve this, you can try another formula instead after copying the Code 128 Font in the C:\Windows\Fonts folder.
  First, insert this formula for the data 456987321596328 and press Enter.
  ="*"&B5&"*"
  
  Then, change the Font to Code 128 and the Size to 36 for creating the barcode.
  
  Make sure, your input data is in Text format before applying the formula.
  Moreover, VBA is not error-free. So I suggest you create a new Excel-Macro Enabled Workbook and copy-paste the VBA code to create your own barcode.
  I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know if you have other queries.
  Thanks!
CL Nov 9, 2022 at 8:18 AM

Is it possible to encode keyboard functions into barcode such as “TAB” and “Return” key?
- Reply
  Alok Nov 13, 2022 at 12:04 PM
  
  Hello, CL.
  Of course, it’s possible to solve your mentioned problem!
  You will need to get the ASCII code of the respective keys. Now, open a new Excel file and follow all the steps written in this article, i.e. downloading Barcode fonts 128, installing them, creating a UDF, and the next steps. Now insert the ASCII codes of the respective keys and you will get your desired Barcode. See what we have got.
  
  So, what you need to do yourself, just finding the ASCII codes! What else to do are already mentioned in this article.
  
  Note: You may need to open a new file because as per the new update of Excel, a VBA code will be disabled in a downloaded xlsm file. Or you can solve the problem following this way.
Peter Dec 7, 2022 at 1:27 PM

Hi Mursalin

very detailed steps.

Thanks!

Peter
- Reply
  Shamima Dec 7, 2022 at 3:41 PM
  
  Hi Peter
  
  Thanks for your appreciation.
  
  Regards
  ExcelDemy
Rob Jan 5, 2023 at 12:51 AM

Is there anyway to make this work for new excel files, or do you have to go through these steps and add the VB macro to any excel file that you wish to had 128 barcodes too?

Thanks
- Reply
  Rafiul Haq Jan 9, 2023 at 12:32 PM
  
  Thank you, Rob, for your comment. To make the function available all the time, you can copy the code and paste the VBA code in a workbook. Then, save that workbook as Excel Add-in (*.xlam) file. Then, you will need to enable this add-in for a new Excel file. Thus, the function will be available as long as the add-in is enabled. Additionally, you will need to install the font beforehand.
  
  Let’s assume, you have exported the Excel file as “code 128.xlam” file. Then, you will need to enable this (File > Options > Add-ins > select Go).
  
  Then, you will need to enable the exported file name (in our case it is “code 128“) and press OK.
  
  After doing this, whenever you create a new Excel file, you will be able to use this “CODE128()” function without copying the VBA code.
  - Reply
    Jibrin Adam Apr 24, 2023 at 1:22 AM
    
    Thanks
Ingrida May 10, 2023 at 1:35 PM

Hello, if I get the table, which says “Ambiguous name detected: Code128” after inserting the =Code128(C5), what should I do? Or what I did wrong?
- Reply
  Mursalin Ibne Salehin May 11, 2023 at 11:55 AM
  
  Hi INGRIDA,
  Thanks for your comment. Generally, the “Ambiguous name detected: Code128” error occurs when you insert the same formula in multiple Modules in Excel. In the picture below, you can see Module 1 and Module 2 contain the same code.
  
  In this case, you will get the “Ambiguous name detected: Code128” error.
  To solve it, you need to keep one module and remove others. To do so, right-click on the module you want to remove. Then, select Remove Module2.
  
  After that, select No from the pop-up message box.
  
  After that, you can apply the “=Code128” formula without any error. I hope this will help you to solve your problem. Please let us know if you have any other queries.
  
  Regards
  Mursalin,
  ExcelDemy.
Caleb Jun 1, 2023 at 1:41 AM

Hello,

I am attempting to create a barcode with the enter function within the barcode.
For example,

ID: 833
Password: 833

I want to be able to scan the barcode and it input 833 \enter 833 \enter

I was trying to follow the reply above by ALOK in November:
“Hello, CL.
Of course, it’s possible to solve your mentioned problem!
You will need to get the ASCII code of the respective keys. Now, open a new Excel file and follow all the steps written in this article, i.e. downloading Barcode fonts 128, installing them, creating a UDF, and the next steps. Now insert the ASCII codes of the respective keys and you will get your desired Barcode. See what we have got.
Keyboard keys to Barcode
So, what you need to do yourself, just finding the ASCII codes! What else to do are already mentioned in this article.

Note: You may need to open a new file because as per the new update of Excel, a VBA code will be disabled in a downloaded xlsm file. Or you can solve the problem following this way.”

I don’t quite understand how they just used 9 and 10 for tab and enter respectively. I have the code working now – I am just troubled with the enter implementation.
- Reply
  Al Ikram Amit Jun 4, 2023 at 1:18 PM
  Hello CALEB,
  
  Greetings! We appreciate you contacting us and commenting on our Excel blog post with your query. We appreciate your interest and are available to help. Enter the following VBA code in your module and correct the range in that code. Hopefully, this will implement the “Enter” function key in Excel which means the code will activate the next blank cell.
```
Sub ActivateFirstBlankCell()
    Dim cell As Range
    ' Loop through each cell in the range D5:D11
    For Each cell In Range("D5:D11")
        ' Check if the cell is blank
        If cell.Value = "" Then
            ' Activate the blank cell
            cell.Activate
            Exit Sub ' Exit the loop once the first blank cell is found
        End If
    Next cell
End Sub
```
  The result will be like this.
  
  If you enter =CHAR(13) in cell A1 and =CODE128(A1) in cell B1 in Excel, the following will happen:
  1. Enter will be represented in cell A1 and will display a carriage return character, but it will not be visibly represented. A carriage return is a non-printable control character that represents a line break or the “Enter” key.
  2. In cell B1, the formula =CODE128(A1) will attempt to encode the content of cell A1 as a Code 128 barcode. However, since the content of cell A1 is a non-printable character (carriage return), it may not be directly interpretable by the CODE128 function. The CODE128 function is typically designed to encode printable ASCII characters.
  I’ll be pleased to help you further if you can give me more information or a sample of your Excel sheet if the issue continues.
  
  Regards
  
  Al Ikram Amit
  
  Team ExcelDemy
Caleb Hogue Jun 1, 2023 at 11:12 PM

Hello,
I was trying to follow the response by ALOK Nov 13, 2022 at 12:04 PM
I am using the code provided and it produces the barcode that can be read; however, I don’t understand how 9 and 10 mean tab and enter respectively. Can you provide me with an example piece of a cell that would return “8233 CR 8233 CR” in one barcode?
- Reply
  Afrina Nafisa Jun 4, 2023 at 3:07 PM
  Hello, CALEB HOGUE. Thank you for your query. I understand you find difficulties using 9 and 10 as Tab and Enter. Please follow the below code to get 9 and 10 as Tab and Enter respectively.
  
  Sub ActivateFirstBlankCell()
  Dim cell As Range
```
Sub ActivateFirstBlankCell()
    Dim cell As Range

    ' Loop through each cell in the range A1:A5
    For Each cell In Range("A1:A5")
        ' Check if the cell is blank
        If cell.Value = "" Then
            ' Activate the blank cell
            cell.Activate
            Exit Sub ' Exit the loop once the first blank cell is found
        End If
    Next cell
End Sub
```
  Also, follow the code that is already used in this article to convert “8233 CR 8233 CR” into one barcode
Kenny H Jul 18, 2023 at 4:04 PM

Thank you for taking the time to create the code and instructions on how to make the barcode. I am encountering a problem that I hope you can help me with. My generated barcode does not work and does not match the master barcode 100%. Is there any chance you might know what I am doing wrong? Thank you again for your time!! If there is a way I can paste a copy of the master barcode that is working and the one that I am generating it may help
- Reply
  Sourav Kundu Jul 19, 2023 at 12:00 PM
  
  Hello, KENNY H.
  Thank you for sharing your problem with us. However, we would have liked more information about your problem. The method described in this article should work perfectly. Try to follow the methods and steps given in this article as it is. Make sure to download the proper code 128 font.
  You can email us screenshots of your problem or your workbook at [email protected]
  That would really help us to understand your problem and give a proper solution.
  You can also follow the articles below for generating barcodes in Excel.
  1. Create Barcode in Excel
  2. Generate 2D Barcode in Excel
  Have a nice day!
  Regards,
  Sourav
  Exceldemy.
Kenny H Jul 19, 2023 at 7:56 PM

Thank you for the quick reply!! I tried sending an email to the address [email protected] but the email was returned saying the address was not good
- Reply
  Shamima Sultana Jul 20, 2023 at 9:44 AM
  
  Dear Kenny H,
  
  This Email address is valid but if you face any problem you can post your problem in our ExcelDemy Forum.
  
  Regards
  ExcelDemy
Matthew F Aug 25, 2023 at 12:11 PM

Thank you for this tutorial. I am having difficulty with the VBA function which does not seem to translate the data correctly.

Your example, above, shows the following result in cell D5: ÌA00M2Ç@A8Î
If I type this in manually, and convert the font to Code 128 the barcode is correct and readable, so my barcode font is OK.

However, for me, the Code128 function in cell D5 returns: ÃA00M2«@A8Œ
which gives the wrong barcode. In fact, two of the characters don’t give a barcode at all: « and Œ

I’m running Excel v16 on MacOS 12.

Thanks.
Matthew F Aug 25, 2023 at 2:07 PM

Thank you for this article. I have a similar problem as mentioned by Casey, above, trying to use this on Excel for MacOS. The problem stems from the fact that the ANSI character set for Mac and PC are not the same.

See for example:
PC: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/office/vba/language/reference/user-interface-help/character-set-128255
Mac: https://www.spreadsheetweb.com/mac-os-character-set/

This creates a problem for all the VBA steps involving CHR(). I partly fixed this issue by substituting:
Chr(235) instead of Chr(206) Î
Chr(234) instead of Chr(205) Í
Chr(130) instead of Chr(199) Ç
Chr(237) instead of Chr(204) Ç
Chr(233) instead of Chr(200) È

This fixes the issue with the start/stop characters. However there is still a problem with the checksum that I can’t figure out. It still translates to the wrong character, and therefore the barcode can’t be read.
- Reply
  Aniruddah Alam Aug 31, 2023 at 12:36 PM
  
  Thank you, MATTHEW, for bringing this issue to our attention. After examining the problem, we’ve also identified that the VBA function is not accurately translating the data on Mac OS. You have rightly indicated that the discrepancy in ANSI character codes between Windows and Mac operating systems is the root cause of this problem. We also found that certain characters, such as the initial and final characters Ì and Î, have different codes on Mac and Windows systems. We’re actively working on creating a new VBA function that will function correctly on Mac too.
  
  Regards
  Aniruddah
  Team Exceldemy
Dawood Sep 14, 2023 at 10:33 PM

Thanks for all the support and wonderful article, i want to use “-” in my barcode can you please help. like the code “30001-WK-H-0001”.
- Reply
  Bishawajit Chakraborty Sep 18, 2023 at 4:05 PM
  Thank you, DAWOOD, for your wonderful question.
  
  In Excel, you can use a barcode font to create barcodes that include hyphens (“-“). Here are the steps to do it:
  
  1. Download and Install a Barcode Font:
  - First, you’ll need to download and install a barcode font that supports hyphens. You can find various barcode fonts online, and some popular ones include Code 128, Code 39, or EAN-13. Download the font and install it on your computer following the font installation instructions for your operating system.
  2. Enter Your Barcode Data:
  - In an Excel cell, enter your barcode data, including the hyphens.
  - Select all the codes in the cell.
  - From the Font group in the Home tab, choose Code 128 font format.
  - Press Enter.
  - Now, you will see the following result.
  I hope this may solve your issue. Also, please follow this article to get your answer with detailed explanations.
  
  That’s it! You’ve created a barcode in Excel with hyphens included in the data. Remember that the actual appearance and functionality of the barcode depend on the specific barcode font you’re using, so make sure to choose a font that supports the format you need.
  
  Bishawajit, on behalf of ExcelDemy
Stefano Sep 20, 2023 at 6:02 PM

Hi and thank you for you article, it has been really instructive!

I have a problem, I’m trying to add to my SSCC Code the FNC-1 Character, but the font I have downloaded (the one you’ve posted above), doesn’t read this charachter, leaving me with a blank cell.

Moreover, above, you are talking about using the =Code128b function for FCN-1 character adding purposes, but this function does not exists.

Can you please help me?
- Reply
  Priti Sep 24, 2023 at 3:32 PM
  
  Hello Stefano,
  I’m glad you found the information helpful, but I understand you’re still encountering issues with adding the FNC-1 character to your SSCC Code using a Code 128 font.
  
  I apologize for any confusion. The downloaded font here can not directly convert codes into Barcodes. You need to apply the VBA code to create the function “=Code128” to transform the SSCC code into symbols. After that, using the downloaded font will work.
  
  For your second problem, there isn’t a built-in Excel function called “=Code128b” for adding the FNC-1 character. Excel has no native function for generating Code 128 barcodes with special characters.
  That is why we built a function named “=Code128” using the VBA code for your convenience. Follow step 2 which is Using VBA to Create User Defined Function to create the function.
  I hope the confusion is cleared and this process willwork for you now.
  Regards
  Exceldemy Team
Daphne Nov 14, 2023 at 7:20 PM

Hello I am having trouble as the vba wont run on my other computer and I cannot figure out why… can you please help? has anyone else encountered a similar issue?
Musiha Mahfuza Mukta Nov 15, 2023 at 12:24 PM

Hello Daphne, the VBA code is perfectly working on my laptop. The code is fine. To run a VBA code you must follow:
1. Save your Excel file in .xlsm format
2. Use the Excel offline version
3. Enable macro content, to do so right click on Excel file >> from the Context Menu Bar >> go to Properties option >> General >> Security >> Unblock
Still, if you face the problem, then please go through this article [Fixed!] Macros Not Working in Excel. Hopefully, this article will help you to solve your issue.
Regards
Exceldemy Team
- Reply
  gsfragaro Dec 19, 2023 at 3:11 PM
  
  Hi,
  in my case the code not work.
  When i have a string with two consecutive zeros the code generate a empty character…
  - Reply
    Lutfor Rahman Shimanto Dec 26, 2023 at 9:57 AM
    
    Hello GSFRAGARO
    
    Thanks for sharing your problem. You have encountered an issue like you have a string with two consecutive zeros, but the code generates an empty character. In Our machine, the code and font work perfectly fine if we have a string with two consecutive zeros. See the following Image,
    
    The possible reason for the issue you encountered could be not using the Code 128 font. Maybe you are using some other barcode font. So, please ensure you are using the intended font. Good luck.
    
    Regards
    Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
    ExcelDemy
Alex Dec 20, 2023 at 3:19 PM

HELLO! Thank you for sharing, it helps me a lot.
I’m seeking assistance with a problem.
I download the practice xlsm above, and I review the excel settings and VBA code make sure setting correctly.
Then, I scan the barcode in the book with my scanning gun, and it works.
But when I press enter button on the cell D5 with the formula, the barcode changed. It’s different from the original one and can’t be scanned.
I try other numbers and fail again. Is it the problem of my code128 font (alreday installed code 128 regular font).
If you know how to solve it, could you help?
Looking forward for your reply.
- Reply
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto Dec 26, 2023 at 11:07 AM
  
  Hello ALEX
  
  Thanks for your nice words. Your appreciation means a lot to us.
  
  You are facing a difficulty like when you press the enter button on cell D5 with the formula, the barcode changes. It’s different from the original one and can’t be scanned. Providing the ultimate solution without properly glancing at your problem is very hard. However, I am giving you some ideas that might be helpful.
  
  Suggestions: Your issue concerns the font encoding or handling of the Code 128 font in Excel. Make sure that the Code 128 font is installed correctly on your system. Check the scanner manual for any specific settings related to Code 128 barcodes. Format the cell as Text when using the Code 128 barcode font with a custom VBA function to ensure accurate content and avoid unintended changes by Excel formatting rules.
  
  You can also share your problem with more details in the ExcelDemy Forum. Good luck.
  
  Regards
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
  ExcelDemy
Jon Jacobson Jan 10, 2024 at 6:53 PM

Hi,
This is great and was working as expected in generating scannable 128 barcodes, but I ran into an issue with simple numbers greater than 999.

If I tried 1,000 2,000 3,000 I was getting invalid barcodes. The barcodes all have large gaps in middle. Any ideas?
- Reply
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto Jan 18, 2024 at 1:24 PM
  
  Hello Jon Jacobson
  
  Thanks for your nice words. The code and font work perfectly fine in our machine for numbers greater than 999. See the following Image,
  
  You can test the barcodes shown in the image using your barcode gun. On our end, we have found the original text accurately.
  
  It is impossible to thoroughly observe your problem remotely and not glance at your machine. Make sure you have installed the Code 128 barcode font properly. You can check the scanner manual for specific settings related to Code 128 barcodes.
  
  If you still face this type of problem, you can share the issue within the ExcelDemy Forum with details of your machine. Stay blessed.
  
  Regards
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
  Excel & VBA Developer
  ExcelDemy
karan Jan 15, 2024 at 9:50 AM

ITS KARAN HERE FROM DUBAI WE ARE UNABLE TO USE THE FILE IN WINDOWS 11, KINDLY HELP US
- Reply
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto Jan 18, 2024 at 3:11 PM
  
  Hello Karan
  
  Thanks for sharing your problem. The practice workbook attached to the article should be usable in Windows 11 OS.
  
  As the Excel file is macro-enabled, check your Excel security settings: Go to Excel Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Macro Settings, and enable macros if they are disabled.
  
  Besides, ensure that the Code 128 font is correctly installed on your system.
  
  Hopefully, these actions will resolve your issue. Good luck.
  
  Regards
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
  Excel & VBA Developer
  ExcelDemy
Franky Lam Jan 25, 2024 at 8:47 PM

I encountered a problem with the VBA example file. In example file the cell C5 “A00M23233” is supposed to be transcoded to a string “ÌA00M2Ç@A8Î” which is in Code 128 font at cell D5. When I rerun the function in D5 the string change to “?A00M2?@AZ?”, which make the barcode differ from original and cannot be read. Pressing undo doesn’t help. Seems the VBA code cannot run properly on my system.

My computer running windows 7 with office 2013.
- Reply
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto Feb 7, 2024 at 2:09 PM
  Hello FRANKY LAM
  
  Thanks for visiting our blog and sharing your problem. Based on your problem, it seems the VBA User-defined function named Code128 is not recalculating on your system.
  
  So, you can try forced fully recalculating using the CalculateFull property of the Excel Application.
  
  Follow these steps: Right-click on the sheet name tab >> Click on View Code >> Paste the following code in the sheet module and Save:
  Private Sub Worksheet_Change(ByVal Target As Range) Call ForcedReCalculation End Sub Sub ForcedReCalculation() Application.CalculateFull End Sub
  Hopefully, the idea will help you good luck.
  
  Regards
  Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
  Excel & VBA Developer
  ExcelDemy
P.Chan Feb 27, 2024 at 1:30 PM

Hello, I encountered the same issue as Franky Lam, I using your data set fuke as a test, however, it shows ?A00M2?@AZ? instead of “ÌA00M2Ç@A8Î”.

I guess for this reason the scanner could not read after it turns to code128. I tried the suggestion of using “CalculateFull”, but still not working. Any advice?
I am using microsoft 365.

Thank you for your help in advance.
- Reply
  Mahfuza Anika Era Feb 28, 2024 at 2:47 PM
  
  Hi P.Chan,
  
  The scanner cannot scan or scan wrong information as the text the code is generating is wrong in your case. I have tried the code and it is working properly.
  
  As for why the code isn’t running properly in your system is a bit complicated to trace. For starters, try troubleshooting and retry the code again.
  
  Regards
  Niloy
  ExcelDemy
Robert Mar 21, 2024 at 4:23 PM

Works perfectly !! Thank you !
- Reply
  Shamima Sultana Mar 24, 2024 at 9:34 AM
  
  Hello Robert,
  
  You are most welcome. Thanks for your appreciation.
  
  Regards
  ExcelDemy