About GS1-128 Barcodes
GS1-128, formerly known as EAN-128 or UCC-128, is a barcode standard that extends Code 128 with a system of Application Identifiers (AIs). These identifiers allow the barcode to encode structured data such as batch numbers, expiry dates, serial numbers, and product identifiers in a single barcode. GS1-128 is widely adopted across supply chain, logistics, and healthcare industries.
Application Identifiers
Application Identifiers are numeric prefixes that define the type and format of the data that follows. Common AIs include:
- (01) GTIN – Global Trade Item Number, used to identify products.
- (10) Batch number – Identifies the production batch or lot.
- (17) Expiry date – Indicates the product expiration date in YYMMDD format.
- (21) Serial number – A unique identifier for individual items.
Common Use Cases
- Supply chain management – Track products through manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution.
- Shipping containers – Label pallets and cartons with standardized shipping information.
- Healthcare packaging – Meet FDA requirements for drug and medical device labeling with unique device identifiers.
- Food traceability – Encode production dates, batch numbers, and expiry dates for food safety compliance.
Related Barcode Types
GS1-128 is built on the Code 128 standard. Explore more barcode formats on the Barcode Generator hub.
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