Make inventory barcode labels from your stock list

Try a mapped CSV sample for bins, shelves and stock. Choose records and quantities, check a free five-label proof, then export the complete batch with Pro.

Warehouses and stockrooms label bins, shelves and stock with a location code and a scannable barcode so anything can be found and counted fast. PaperReady prints inventory labels at true size, generates the barcodes, and can run a numbered sequence of locations or pull straight from your stock list. Individual designs and spreadsheet proofs of up to five labels are free to export; complete batch output and saved lists require Pro or a new-account trial.

Make inventory barcodes from a CSV

Use one SKU per row with the headers sku,name,bin. The sample maps the SKU into a Code 128 barcode and shows the product and bin above it. It creates a 2 × 1 inch PDF page for each row.

Preview three SKU labels Download the example CSV

sku,name,bin
PR-001,Blue widget,A-01
PR-002,Red widget,A-02
PR-003,Green widget,B-01

1. Open the sample and inspect all three records. Import your CSV or Excel file to replace the fictional rows.
2. Map your identifier column to sku. Treat it as text so leading zeros remain part of the value. Use short names and bin codes that fit the label.
3. Download the batch PDF with Pro or a new-account trial. Select matching stock and Actual size / 100%, then scan one printed proof with the scanner you use at work.
4. Save the list and mapping to your account, then load it with this design for your next inventory run.

Internal SKU codes and retail barcodes serve different jobs

This sample encodes your internal identifiers in Code 128. It does not allocate a GTIN, UPC or EAN or establish compliance with a retailer’s requirements. Check the identifier and barcode type required by your receiving system before printing production stock. GS1 explains retail barcode and product identifier standards.

If the barcode will not scan

Retain clear space around the bars, avoid stretching or clipping, and confirm that your scanner supports the selected type. Long values pack more bars into the same width; shorten an internal SKU or choose a wider label and test again. Keep the human-readable value so you can compare the scan result.

Preview is free. Batch output and saved lists are Pro features at $12/month, with 14 days free for new accounts and no card required. Start with the inventory workflow.

Workflow updated 28 September 2026. These examples were checked in the browser; physical barcode scanning depends on your printer, stock and scanner.

• Barcodes for every bin and SKU

  Choose Code 128, QR or Data Matrix for your receiving system, then scan a printed proof before a production run.

• Number locations in sequence

  Print A-01, A-02, A-03 across a run with sequential numbering, each with its own barcode.

• Straight from your stock spreadsheet

  Import your inventory list and each row becomes a label, with the barcode built from the SKU or location column.

• Roll or sheet output

  Choose roll-label dimensions or a matching Avery layout. PDF output needs no printer bridge; direct printing depends on the installed driver and supported bridge.

Free on one computer · no account needed · PDF export works without installation

Frequently asked

More label types