Barcode Types
1 |
EAN/UPC |
2 |
GS1 DataBar |
3 |
ITF-14 |
4 |
GS1-128 |
5 |
GS1 DataMatrix |
EAN/UPC
The EAN/UPC Symbology family includes EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A and UPC-E Barcodes.
These can be read omni-directionally.
These symbols must be used at Point-of-Sale and can be used throughout the entire supply chain. For POS operations, another barcode type is being introduced into the open standards, GS1 DataBar. As of 2014, all scanning systems, in particular POS, should be able to read this barcode type. For further information, please review the GS1 DataBar section.
EAN-13 |
UPC-A |
EAN-8 |
UPC-E |
Note: these barcodes are for illustration purposes and are not represented to scale.
GS1 DataBar
Within the GS1 DataBar family, there are seven symbol types. Four of these can be scanned omni-directionally and used at Point-of-Sale, while the other three may not.
The GS1 DataBar can be smaller than an EAN/UPC Barcode, or it can be equivalent in size and carry additional information.
Currently, GS1 DataBar can be used when there is a bilateral agreement between trading partners, for all trade items. GS1 DataBar becomes an open, global standard in 2014.
For more information on GS1 DataBar, please go to GS1 Databar page.
One type of GS1 DataBar is illustrated below:
GS1 DataBar Omnidirectional
ITF-14 (Interleaved 2-of-5) Barcodes
ITF Barcodes cannot be scanned omni-directionally, and are best suited for direct printing onto corrugated fibreboard. These barcodes can be used if the trade item is not expected to pass through Point-of-Sale. The ITF-14 Barcode only encodes the GTIN.
GS1-128 Barcodes
GS1-128 Barcodes cannot be scanned omni-directionally and are not intended to pass through Point-of-Sale.
The GS1-128 Barcode can encode not only the GTIN, but additional information (referred to as attribute data) such as serial and/or batch numbers as well as expiry dates.
This barcode is generally used to identify cases, pallets and other logistic units.
GS1 DataMatrix
GS1 DataMatrix is a compact, stand-alone, two-dimensional barcode symbology that is made up of square modules. This symbol has been identified as the preferred symbol for healthcare in the future.
GS1 DataMatrix symbols are read by two-dimensional imaging scanners or vision systems. These scanners are not traditionally used at general retail Point-of Sale.
