GS1-128 barcode generator
Put GTIN, batch, expiry date and more in one barcode. Write each Application Identifier in brackets and we handle the FNC1 characters and check digits.
1. Content
2. Size and style
Bulk barcodes PRO
Make up to 500 barcodes in your current type and style. Each one is test-scanned, and the ZIP includes an index.csv with the results.
What is a GS1-128 barcode?
GS1-128 (formerly UCC/EAN-128) is Code 128 with a special start character (FNC1) and data written as Application Identifiers: short numbers in brackets that say what follows. (01) is a GTIN, (10) a batch or lot, (17) an expiry date and (21) a serial number.
Warehouses and distribution centres split the fields automatically, so one scan records product, batch and dates. Variable-length fields are separated by an invisible FNC1, which we add for you.
Where it's used
- Carton and pallet labels in retail supply chains
- SSCC shipping labels (AI 00)
- Food and pharmaceutical traceability: batch and expiry
- Healthcare and medical device labels
How to make a GS1-128 barcode
Write your data
Each Application Identifier in brackets, then its data: (01)09501101530003(17)261231(10)AB12.
Let us check it
We add or check the GTIN and SSCC check digits and check dates are YYMMDD. The encoder checks the rest of the GS1 rules.
Download and test
Logistics labels need a large module width: see the sizes below.
Sizing and printing a GS1-128 barcode
Common identifiers
(00) SSCC, 18 digits · (01) GTIN, 14 digits · (10) batch or lot, up to 20 characters · (11) production date · (15) best before · (17) expiry date, YYMMDD · (21) serial, up to 20 characters · (37) count of items.
Order of fields
Put fixed-length fields such as (01) and (17) first and variable ones like (10) or (21) last. It saves a separator and keeps the barcode shorter.
Logistics sizes
GS1 logistics labels use a module width of 0.495 to 1.016 mm and bars at least 31.75 mm tall.
Limits
A GS1-128 symbol holds at most 48 data characters and should be no wider than 165 mm. Split more data over two barcodes.
Use a vector file for print
SVG, PDF and EPS stay sharp at any size, so packaging designers and print shops prefer them. For PNG, download at your printer's resolution and place it at 100%.
GS1-128 questions
Why aren't the brackets in the barcode?
They're only in the human-readable text. The barcode carries the AI numbers themselves, with FNC1 characters where a variable-length field ends.
What is an SSCC?
The Serial Shipping Container Code, AI (00): an 18-digit number that identifies one pallet or parcel. It's the main barcode on a GS1 logistics label.
How do I write a date?
As YYMMDD: 31 December 2026 is 261231. GS1 allows 00 as the day to mean the end of the month.
Can I put GS1 data in a Data Matrix?
That's GS1 DataMatrix, a separate format used on pharmaceuticals and medical devices. This tool makes plain Data Matrix, which doesn't carry GS1 identifiers.