What is GS1-128 symbology?

GS1-128 symbology is used to encode trade item data for logistics units such as cartons, cases, and pallets that are not intended to pass through retail point-of-sale (POS). The use of this symbology supports fast and accurate tracking of inventory and other specific data in the supply chain.

GS1-128 symbology is also used to encode other specific important information on coupons.

Examples of the barcodes are shown below.

 

How is it used?

GS1-128 symbology is used to uniquely identify trade items, logistics units, and returnable assets in the supply chain. The symbology not only encodes trade item data, but provides a method for encoding and sharing a large variety of different specific data types defined by the GS1 System, such as the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), Best Before Date, Batch / Lot Number, and Serial Number.

This is accomplished by creating and defining a list of Application Identifiers (AI’s) that uniquely defines both the data format and its meaning. More that 100 different AI’s are described in the latest version of the GS1 General Specifications, a GS1 System standards document.

What are the benefits of using these barcodes?

The combination of unique identification and standardized data content makes GS1-128 symbology invaluable for sharing rich data content between trading partners across wide sectors in the supply chain including Retailers, Healthcare Providers, Manufacturers, and Logistic Service Providers.

The GS1 System, the world’s most accepted standards system, provides globally unique identification numbers and barcode marking for trade items. Companies in the US must obtain a GS1 Company Prefix from GS1 US to create unique identification numbers for their trade items. The trade item identification number, referred to as the Global Trade Item Number® or GTIN®, forms the foundation needed for electronic commerce including the synchronization of data between trading partners in the Global Data Synchronization Network® (GDSN®).