GS1-128 barcode generator
Make a GS1-128 barcode for cartons, cases and pallets by filling in simple fields, such as product number, batch and expiry date. No need to learn the bracket format.
- Free, no sign-up
- Checks your numbers
- Formerly EAN-128
- Made in your browser
Need one for every carton? Use the bulk generator Need an Android sales app for taking orders on the road or at trade shows? See Selenic Orders.
Barcode data, in GS1 format. To make a label for every carton, paste one line like this for each into the bulk generator.
(01)09521234543213(17)271231(10)ABC123
- Product and carton numbers must come from your GS1 membership. This tool draws the barcode but can’t issue numbers.
What is GS1-128?
GS1-128 is the barcode used on outer cartons, cases and pallets to carry more than a product number. A single barcode can hold the product, its batch, its best before date and more, and a warehouse scanner reads them all at once. It used to be called EAN-128 or UCC-128.
Each piece of data starts with a number in brackets, called an application identifier (AI), which says what follows. The brackets are printed under the barcode for people to read, but aren’t part of the bars themselves.
The common fields
| AI | What it holds | Format |
|---|---|---|
| (00) | SSCC: a unique number for one carton or pallet | 18 digits |
| (01) | GTIN: the product’s number | 14 digits |
| (10) | Batch or lot number | Up to 20 characters |
| (11) | Production date | YYMMDD |
| (13) | Packaging date | YYMMDD |
| (15) | Best before date | YYMMDD |
| (17) | Use by or expiry date | YYMMDD |
| (21) | Serial number | Up to 20 characters |
| (310n) | Net weight in kg, where n is the number of decimal places | 6 digits |
| (400) | Customer’s purchase order number | Up to 30 characters |
A shorter GTIN, such as a 13-digit EAN, is padded with zeros at the front to make 14 digits. The tool does that for you, and checks the check digit. To work one out by hand, use the check digit calculator.
Printing tips
- Check your customer’s label specification first. Supermarkets and distributors often set the size and layout.
- Keep black bars on a white background, and leave the white margins either side.
- Print one and scan it before labelling a whole delivery.
Just need a product barcode? Use the barcode generator for EAN-13, UPC-A, ITF-14 and more.
Frequently asked questions
Is GS1-128 the same as EAN-128 or UCC-128?
Yes. EAN-128 and UCC-128 are its old names. It’s a Code 128 barcode that follows GS1’s rules for showing what each piece of data is.
Can I make up my own product or carton numbers?
Not for goods you supply to retailers or distributors. GTINs and SSCCs are built from a company prefix you get by joining GS1, so no two companies’ numbers clash. Batch numbers, serial numbers and dates are yours to choose.
Why is my date shown as six digits?
GS1 dates are written YYMMDD, so 31 December 2027 becomes 271231. Pick the date in the calendar and the tool converts it for you.
What order should the fields go in?
GS1 recommends fixed-length fields, such as GTIN and dates, before variable-length ones, such as batch and serial numbers. That keeps the barcode as short as possible, and the tool orders them for you.
How big should I print it?
It depends on who’s scanning it. Retailers and logistics companies usually set a label specification for cartons and pallets, so check with your customer first. Download the SVG to resize it without losing sharpness.
Is my data sent anywhere?
No. The barcode is drawn in your browser and nothing you type is sent to us or anyone else.