Business GUIDE โ€ข 8 min read

How to Create Barcodes in Excel & Google Sheets (Step-by-Step)

Step-by-step tutorial on generating barcodes in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets using barcode fonts, formulas, and bulk CSV batch export tools.

Method 1: The Modern & Reliable Way (CSV / Batch Export)

While installing barcode fonts in Excel was common in the 1990s, fonts often fail to calculate check digits properly (especially for Code 128, UPC-A, and EAN-13). The most reliable modern workflow is:

  1. In Excel or Google Sheets, organize your product data into columns (SKU, Product Name, Price).
  2. Go to File > Save As > CSV (Comma delimited) (.csv).
  3. Drag & drop the CSV file into our Bulk Barcode Tool.
  4. Download your batch in a single organized ZIP package or print directly onto Avery sheets.

Method 2: Using Code 39 Fonts in Excel

If you must render barcodes directly inside an Excel worksheet cell using a TrueType font (like Free 3 of 9), follow these rules:

Excel Formula for Code 39:
="*" & A2 & "*"

Code 39 requires asterisk (*) start and stop characters. Set the cell font to "Free 3 of 9 Extended" with a size of 28pt+.

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