Barcode Bin Labels: Free Template + How to Print (2026)

Barcode bin labels turn your location codes into something a phone or scanner reads in a fraction of a second — no typos, no "is that an O or a zero?" Here is how to make and print them, plus a free generator to start from.

A bin location is only as good as its label#

You can design the cleanest location scheme in the world, but if your team is reading codes off a shelf and typing them in, you have added an error at every step. A scannable barcode on every bin removes that error and speeds up receiving, picking, and counting.

Step 1: Lock in your location codes first#

Before you print anything, you need the codes. If you have not set up a scheme yet, start with a location naming system — a consistent format like Aisle-Row-Shelf-Bin that reads broad to narrow. Once your codes exist, you are ready to turn them into labels.

Step 2: Choose your symbology — Code 128 or QR#

Code 128 is the default: compact, handles letters and numbers, and every linear or laser scanner reads it. Use QR when you will scan with phone cameras, need omnidirectional scanning, or want the code to survive partial damage. For most shelf and bin labels, Code 128 is the right call.

Step 3: Generate the barcodes (free)#

You do not need paid label software. Paste your location codes into the free barcode and QR label generator, or start from the sample CSV — it turns each code into a Code 128 barcode or a QR code, laid out for Avery 5160 or 5167. It runs entirely in your browser: nothing is uploaded and there is no signup.

Step 4: Pick your label size and stock#

Avery sheets print on any laser or inkjet printer; a thermal printer is worth it for high volume or harsh environments.

Step 5: Print at 100% scale — the mistake that breaks scanning#

This is the one that trips everyone up. "Fit to page" or any scaling distorts the bar widths and makes the barcode unscannable. In the print dialog, set scale to 100% or "Actual size" and uncheck "fit to printable area." Print one test sheet and scan it before running the whole batch.

Step 6: Apply and test-scan#

Apply each label to the shelf edge or bin face at a consistent height so it is easy to find and scan. Then scan every one to confirm it reads — a label that does not scan is worse than no label, because someone will trust it.

Free barcode bin label generator#

Open the free generator, paste your location codes, and it builds a print-ready Avery 5160 sheet with Code 128 barcodes — no signup. Prefer a spreadsheet? Start from the sample CSV. Print at 100% and you are labeled.

InventoryQuick starts at $19/mo — already have a barcode or item list? Import it from any CSV or spreadsheet (we auto-detect barcode, SKU, and quantity columns), then your team can scan and track stock across every location from a phone. Start your 7-day free trial

Related: Warehouse bin location system · Warehouse labeling guide · How to do a physical inventory count