GS1-128 (UCC/EAN-128) Symbology Technical Information
GS1-128 (formerly known as UCC/EAN-128) is a highly flexible, standardized variant of Code 128 designed for global logistics and supply chain data exchange.
A Legacy of Global Standards
The UCC EAN System was pioneered by the Uniform Code Council (UCC) in 1973. By 1977, the European Article Numbering Association (EAN International) established a compatible system for European use, leading to the unified global standard utilized in industry today.
Technical Specifications & Dimensions
- • Encodable Charset: Alphanumeric (Space excluded).
- • Maximum Capacity: Up to 48 data characters.
- • Maximum Length: 165 mm (6.5 in.) including quiet zones.
- • Minimum Height: 32 mm (1.25 in.).
- • FNC1: Reserved right after start character for GS1 identification.
- • HRT: Human Readable Text must appear below the symbol.
GS1-128 Symbol Structure
Common Application Identifiers (AIs)
AIs define the interpretation and format of the encoded data strings.
SSCC-18 (AI: 00)
The 18-digit Serial Shipping Container Code identifies individual shipping units. Composed of Package Type, Manufacturer Number, and Serial Number.
GTIN (AI: 01)
Global Trade Item Number (SSCC-14). Identical in function to SSCC-18 but optimized for 14-digit identifiers.
USPS Service (AI: 420/91)
Used for USPS Confirmation Services. Encodes Service Type Code (STC), DUNS, and Package ID with a Modulo 10 check digit.
Healthcare (AI: 22)
Health Industry Business Communications Council (HIBCC) codes for encoding lot/batch, serial numbers, and quantity.
| AI | Description |
|---|---|
| 400 | Customer's Purchase Order Number (Alphanumeric) |
| 8007 | International Bank Account Number (IBAN - ISO 13616) |
| 8100-8102 | GS1-128 Coupon Extended Code |
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