2D Barcode Generator Explained: A Complete Guide [Disclosed]

Have you ever heard of a 2D barcode generator?

Well, it is a tool that assists you in creating 2D (two-dimensional) barcodes effortlessly.

But based on your use case, there are several barcode generator options that you can choose from, which will be mentioned in detail in this post.

So let’s get started!

How to create a 2D barcode with an online generator?

What Is A 2D Barcode?

Two-dimensional, or 2D, refers to a collection of small geometric forms arranged inside of a rectangle or square to hold data.

They give hundreds of times more data than a 1D barcode can hold because they can store data in both the horizontal and vertical planes.

1D vs 2D barcodes

More than 7,000 characters can be stored in a single 2D barcode, which can contain data like the brand name, maintenance records, model number, and a variety of other specifics.

A 2D barcode differs physically from a conventional linear 1D barcode in appearance.

What Are The Types of 2D Barcodes?

Today, there are three main forms of 2D barcodes. 

3 common types of 2D barcodes

• QR codes

Quick response codes, sometimes referred to as QR codes, maybe the most widely used 2D barcode. 

The QR codes, which can be read by smartphones and take visitors directly to websites, were first employed in Japan to track vehicle parts.

• Data Matrix codes

Imagers or readers that effectively take a picture of the code and then analyze it are required to read data matrix codes. 

They are frequently employed in commercial applications.

• PDF417 codes

By simply stacking rows of codes inside of one another, PDF417 codes can safely and economically contain a lot of information.

What Are The Uses of A 2D Barcode?

A 2D barcode can be utilized in several ways across a variety of industries.

Healthcare and manufacturing

Regarding 2D barcodes, there are many connections between healthcare and manufacturing. 

2D barcodes are used in manufacturing

For instance, 2D barcodes can be utilized for pharmaceutical product authentication and traceability.

They can also be etched into metal like a stent in medicine or a tiny metal component in manufacturing, which can help with traceability.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals frequently come in very small containers, and since a 2D barcode may fit in very little space, you can cram a lot of information into it.

2D codes are commonly used in pharmaceuticals

It can include a serial number, batch information, a description of the product, and even a URL where you can find out more about it.

Retail

Retailers can benefit greatly from the usage of 2D barcodes; a notable example is the addition of 2D barcodes in food stores.

For instance, they can add much more information to the barcodes for their meat products.

Expiration dates and batch information can be added, which could help to reduce the number of product recalls, food waste, and sales of expired goods.

Warehouse and logistics

If a tiny package arrives, warehouses frequently get products with 2D barcodes already attached. 

Warehouse and logistics use 2D barcodes

For instance, a 2D barcode might be printed on the delivery label, and both the barcode and the information can be quickly scanned and interpreted.

Thus, there is no need for a connection to a backend or outside services.

How To Create A 2D Barcode?

There are two main methods to create a 2D barcode, which are using an online barcode generator and using a 2D barcode generator software.

Let’s see the details!

Use an online 2D barcode generator

To create 2D barcodes using an online generator, you should first look for a reliable website.

Among a lot of options, we recommend you choose one of the following barcode makers. They are free and easy to use, as well:

• Labeljoy

• OnBarcode

• Barcode-generator

• Inliterserach

• GoQR

Visiting these websites, what you need to do is to select the type of 2D barcode you want to generate and action.

Look at this example:

Create a QR code using Barcode-generator

Although this method is quick and easy to try, there are several drawbacks.

Using an online 2D barcode generator, you can just create several types of barcodes. An Internet connection is required, as well.

If you are interested in the magazine barcode, check our upcoming post for further information!

Use a 2D barcode generator software

The most popular 2D barcode symbologies, including Data Matrix, Qr Code, Postage, and Planet code, may be created and printed using barcode generator software.

For business purposes and the production of numerous 2D barcodes, this is the best option.

According to our expertise, the best software for creating 2D barcodes are:

• Label Right

• NiceLabel

• Labeljoy

• Bartender

• ConnectCode

Pick one and download it! Now you can easily generate any 2D barcode you want.

Tips: Among them, Labeljoy has also considered the best barcode label software. So if you want to create one, try it!

How To Create A QR Code in Excel?

In the previous part, we instructed you on 2 general ways to generate a 2D barcode.

However, due to the growing popularity of QR codes, a type of 2D barcode, we will tell you 4 steps to create it right in Excel.

Creating QR Codes in Excel

• Step 1: Open a blank spreadsheet

In Excel, open a new spreadsheet, select Insert, and then select Add-ins.

• Step 2: Install an add-in

Choose a QR Code generator add-in and click Add. Your Add-in has now been successfully installed.

Install an add-in

• Step 3: Generate a QR code in Excel

Choose the type of QR Code you wish to make, then complete the necessary information. We are creating a QR Code for a website in this instance.

Click Insert after making your QR Code personalized with the available options.

Generate a QR code in Excel

• Step 4: Download the QR Code 

Your QR Code will be present in your Excel spreadsheet after you click Insert and you can download it as a PNG image by right-clicking.

Download the QR Code