Barcodes

SimplePrint generates high-quality barcodes for reliable scanning in warehouse and retail environments.

Barcode Formats

SimplePrint supports two barcode formats:

Code128

Standard Code128 barcode format:

• High density: Encodes more data in less space
• Full ASCII: Supports letters, numbers, and symbols
• Checksum: Built-in error detection
• Universal: Widely supported by scanners

GS1-128

GS1-128 (formerly UCC/EAN-128) is an application standard for supply chain barcodes:

• Application Identifiers (AIs): Structured data fields with defined meanings
• Supply chain standard: Used for shipping, logistics, and traceability
• Multiple data fields: Encode GTIN, lot number, expiry date, and more in one barcode
• Global standard: Recognized worldwide in retail and logistics

Creating Barcodes

In Template Designer

1. Add a new element
2. Select type: Barcode
3. Choose format: Code 128 or GS1-128
4. Enter content (static or placeholder)
5. Set dimensions
6. Position on label

Barcode Properties

GS1-128 Application Identifiers

When using GS1-128 format, structure your data using Application Identifiers (AIs) in parentheses:

Common Application Identifiers

GS1-128 Examples

Product with lot and expiry:

(01)00614141123452(10)LOT2024A(17)251231

Shipping container (SSCC):

(00)106141411234567897

Product with serial number:

(01)00614141123452(21)SN001234567

Using Dynamic Data

Combine AIs with template placeholders:

(01){{product.barcode}}(10){{lot.number}}(17){{lot.expiry_date}}

Data Sources

Static Content

Fixed barcode value:

Content: "FIXED-CODE-123"

Dynamic Content

From data source:

Content: {{product.barcode}}
Content: {{product.code}}
Content: {{lot.number}}

Combined Content

Multiple values:

Content: {{product.code}}-{{lot.number}}

Sizing Guidelines

Width Considerations

GS1-128 barcodes with multiple AIs may require wider widths (80-100mm+).

Height Recommendations

Quiet Zones

Leave clear space around barcodes:

• Minimum: 3mm on each side
• Recommended: 5mm on each side
• No text or graphics in quiet zones

GS1 Company Prefix

To generate valid GS1-128 barcodes for your products, configure your GS1 Company Prefix:

1. Go to Settings > Company
2. Find the GS1 Barcode Settings section
3. Enter your GS1 Company Prefix (6-12 digits)

Your GS1 Company Prefix is assigned by your local GS1 organization and is required for creating valid GTINs.

Scanning Considerations

Content Length

Readability Factors

Ensure reliable scanning:

• Adequate contrast (dark bars, light background)
• Clean, sharp printing
• Proper sizing for scanner type
• Avoid wrapping around edges

Common Barcode Uses

Product Barcodes

Using product barcode field:

{{product.barcode}}

Typically contains:

• EAN-13 codes
• UPC codes
• Internal SKUs

Lot Number Barcodes

For traceability:

{{lot.number}}

Enables:

• Production tracking
• Quality control
• Recall identification

Location Barcodes

Bin and location labels:

{{location.code}}

Supports:

• Put-away operations
• Picking confirmation
• Inventory counts

Shipping Labels (GS1-128)

For logistics and supply chain:

(00){{package.sscc}}

Or with product information:

(01){{product.gtin}}(10){{lot.number}}(17){{lot.expiry_yymmdd}}

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

Testing Barcodes

Before production use:

1. Print test labels
2. Scan with actual equipment
3. Verify decoded data matches
4. Test at various distances
5. Check for consistent results