What Is The GS1 128 Label?
The GS1–128 label, also known as UCC/EAN-128 or simply GS1–128, is a type of barcode used to encode data in various industries, particularly in supply chain and logistics. It is part of the GS1 System of standards, which are administered by the GS1 organization and are widely used for identifying and tracking products, shipments, and assets.
The GS1–128 label is a high-density, variable-length, continuous, and self-checking barcode symbology. It is capable of encoding a wide range of information including:
- Application Identifier (AI): A prefix that indicates the meaning and format of the data encoded following it. AIs are used to represent specific data elements such as product identification, batch or lot numbers, expiration dates, and serial numbers.
- Numeric and Alphanumeric Data: GS1–128 can encode both numeric and alphanumeric data, making it suitable for a variety of applications where detailed information needs to be encoded in the barcode.
- GS1 Company Prefix: This is a unique number assigned to a company by GS1. It is typically included in the GS1–128 barcode to identify the manufacturer or supplier of the product.
- Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC): GS1–128 can encode SSCC, which is used to uniquely identify shipping containers or pallets in the supply chain.
- Application Specific Data: GS1–128 can also encode data specific to particular applications or industries, such as healthcare (e.g., patient identification) or retail (e.g., item identification).
The GS1–128 label is widely used for labeling products, cartons, and pallets in various industries worldwide. It enables efficient and accurate data capture, inventory management, and traceability throughout the supply chain, leading to improved operational efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced visibility of goods.
Learn more about GS1 128 Shipping Labels here -
