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Free Batch Label Creation Software: These Options Are Worth Trying ​

Original: https://cli.im/article/detail/2369

In daily enterprise management, label printing is often an overlooked minor task. However, as scenarios like asset management, product traceability, and inbound/outbound registration become increasingly detailed, traditional methods like handwriting or inefficient standalone software can no longer meet the demands for batch, rapid, and high-frequency printing.

Many small and medium-sized enterprises and frontline managers often encounter similar issues:

  • Wanting to print hundreds of equipment ID labels at once but struggling to find a suitable tool.
  • Commercial software on the market often costs thousands per year, exceeding the budget.
  • Many free tools only support single codes, lack batch processing capabilities, and have complex operations.
  • Software often has high printer requirements, making it difficult to integrate with existing equipment.

So, is there a tool that supports batch generation and printing of labels, is free or low-cost? This article recommends several practical tools suitable for SMEs and teams in the early stages of digital transformation.

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1. CaoLiao QR Code: Free to Use, Supports Bulk QR Codes Generation + Label Export ​

If you need to create labels containing QR code information, CaoLiao QR Code is a tool worth trying.

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Core Advantages: ​

  • Bulk Label Generation: Generate up to 20,000 labels at once by importing Excel files, entering data online, or using APIs to connect with your own ERP systems.
  • Customizable Label Designs: Offers over 150 pre-designed label templates. Saved label styles can be reused, and QR code beautification is supported.
  • No-Code Setup: Ideal for SMEs without proprietary systems. Build systems directly on the CaoLiao platform and simultaneously generate QR code labels for rapid deployment.
  • Export for A4 and Label Printer Formats: Labels can be exported for printing, offering various layout options like standard A4 paper, A4 die-cut sticker sheets, and label printer formats. Compatible with standard laser printers; no specialized equipment needed.
  • Printing Services: Offers five common materials for quick printing and deployment.

Cost Details: ​

  • Label creation features are completely free, including core functions like bulk QR codes generation, template usage, and label export.
  • No limit on the number of labels generated.
  • Does not support barcode label generation.

Suitable Scenarios: ​

  • Fixed Asset Management: Asset IDs, department assignments, procurement information, etc.
  • Equipment Management: Equipment nameplates, equipment inspection, tool tags, spare parts requisition.
  • Personnel Management: Personnel实名 information tags, work badges.
  • Warehousing and Logistics: Shelf codes, box codes, inbound/outbound labels.
  • Education Sector: Book IDs, desk cards, laboratory instrument labels.

2. JINGCHEN Cloud Print: Small Label System Adapted for Specific Printers ​

JINGCHEN is a label printing equipment manufacturer. Its Cloud Print software is adapted for its own devices and is suitable for retail, e-commerce, and other industries.

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Features: ​

  • Integrated software + hardware solution supporting barcode, QR code, text field layout, etc.
  • Batch data import via Excel for batch printing.
  • Supports voice, image, and scan recognition for quick label generation.
  • Provides a template library suitable for e-commerce shipping, warehouse sorting, and similar tasks.

Cost Details: ​

  • The software itself is free but requires JINGCHEN brand printers.
  • Users with non-JINGCHEN printers require additional adaptation; strong device dependency.

3. BarTender: Powerful but High Cost ​

BarTender is a professional-grade label printing solution with comprehensive features, suitable for large-scale manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries.

Features: ​

  • Rich data connectivity capabilities, supporting integration with ERP, databases, and other systems.
  • Highly configurable printing templates.
  • High stability, suitable for high-frequency label printing needs.

Cost Details: ​

  • Commercial software; entry-level versions cost over a thousand, with prices increasing for more features.
  • High learning curve, suitable for deployment in large enterprises like those in the pharmaceutical industry.

4. Other Lightweight Tools like DLabel, BYLabel ​

These tools are often developed by small domestic developers, featuring simple interfaces and supporting basic label layout and printing.

Features: ​

  • Support connecting to Excel and database imports.
  • Some versions support batch barcode/QR code generation.
  • Support synchronization between PC and mobile, compatible with common thermal printers.

Cost Details: ​

  • Basic features are free; DLabel Cloud Label requires payment for batch downloads.
  • Complex layouts require learning; potential printer compatibility issues.
  • BYLabel requires matching with BEAHYANG series printers.

Summary & Recommendations ​

ToolFree?Supports Batch?Requires Specific Printer?Target Users
CaoLiao QR CodeYesYesNoUsers needing QR code labels
JINGCHEN Cloud PrintYes (requires hardware)YesYesUsers with JINGCHEN printers
BarTenderNoYesNoLarge enterprises (e.g., pharmaceutical)
DLabel, etc.Partially FreeYesNoIndividual users / Light users
BYLabelPartially FreeYesYesLogistics/stores needing BEAHYANG printers

If your team needs to achieve batch label creation, printing, and QR code management on a limited budget, CaoLiao QR Code can be a primary choice (for scenarios requiring only QR code labels). Enterprises with higher levels of informatization or custom requirements might also consider commercial software like BarTender. Users in e-commerce/warehousing requiring frequent printing could consider the JINGCHEN printer + Cloud Print software combination for more controllable costs.