How to make barcode labels with a Dymo LabelWriter

Applies to
Dymo LabelWriter 450 series, Dymo LabelWriter 550 series, Dymo LabelWriter 4XL, Dymo LabelWriter 5XL, Windows, macOS, Dymo Connect, product labels, stock labels, asset labels, and barcode labels

Last updated
May 2026

Problem

You want to create barcode labels with a Dymo LabelWriter, but you are not sure which barcode type to use, how to add the barcode in Dymo Connect, or how to make sure it scans correctly after printing.

Barcode labels can fail if the barcode is too small, the wrong barcode format is selected, the label size is wrong, or the print quality is poor.

Solution

Open Dymo Connect, choose the correct label size, add a barcode object, enter the barcode value, check the preview, and print one test label. Always scan the printed label before printing a full batch.

Step by step instructions

Open Dymo Connect

Open Dymo Connect on your Windows PC or Mac.

Make sure your Dymo LabelWriter is selected as the printer before designing the barcode label.

Load the correct label roll

Load the label roll you want to use for the barcode.

Check that:

• The labels feed from the bottom of the roll.
• The roll is seated tightly on the spool.
• The label size matches the barcode label you want to create.
• The first label feeds straight into the printer.

Choose the label size

Select the label template in Dymo Connect that matches the physical roll.

If the label size is wrong, the barcode may print cropped, too small, or in the wrong position.

Add a barcode object

Create a new label and add a barcode object.

Choose the barcode type that matches your purpose. Common choices include:

• Code 128 for general stock or asset labels.
• Code 39 for simple internal labels.
• EAN-13 for retail product codes.
• UPC-A for some retail product codes.
• QR code for web links or compact information.

Enter the barcode value

Type or paste the value you want the barcode to contain.

Check the value carefully before printing. A barcode can scan perfectly but still be wrong if the number or text entered into it is incorrect.

Resize and position the barcode

Place the barcode clearly on the label.

Make sure:

• The barcode is large enough to scan.
• There is blank space around it.
• It is not too close to the label edge.
• It is not stretched or squeezed.
• Any text does not overlap the barcode.

Print one test label

Print one barcode label before printing a full batch.

Scan it with the scanner, phone, till, stock system, or device that will be used in real life.

Check that:

• The barcode scans quickly.
• The scanned value is correct.
• The barcode is not cropped.
• The print is dark and clear.
• The label is the right size for the item.

Adjust if needed

If the barcode does not scan well, increase its size, add more blank space around it, or try a different barcode type.

If the barcode is faint or patchy, clean the print head or try a fresh label roll.

Optional methods or tools

• Use Code 128 for most general-purpose barcode labels.
• Use QR codes for web links, short text, or compact information.
• Use a barcode scanner app as a quick test.
• Use your actual workplace scanner for the final test.
• Use a larger label if the barcode is too cramped.
• Use a Dymo cleaning card if print quality looks poor.
• Download Dymo software from https://www.dymo.com/support?cfid=user-guide

Best practices or tips

• Always test scan before printing a batch.
• Keep barcodes large and clear.
• Leave blank space around the barcode.
• Avoid stretching or compressing barcode objects.
• Use the barcode type required by your system.
• Keep labels flat when applying them.
• Avoid placing barcodes over curved or wrinkled surfaces.
• Store thermal labels away from heat and sunlight.

Making barcode labels with a Dymo LabelWriter is straightforward once the correct label size, barcode type, and layout are selected. The most important step is not just printing the barcode, but confirming that the printed label scans correctly with the device or system you actually use.

For reliable barcode printing, keep the design simple and give the barcode enough space. A clear barcode on a correctly sized label is more useful than a crowded label that looks tidy but fails when scanned.