How to choose a GS1 barcode
Choose the data carrier from the labelled object, scanning environment and partner requirement—not from appearance.
What this page helps you do
Choose the data carrier from the labelled object, scanning environment and partner requirement—not from appearance.
Checks and steps
- Use the customer, retailer, logistics or regulatory requirement as the first constraint.
- Retail items commonly use EAN/UPC or DataBar.
- Cases and logistics labels commonly use GS1-128 or ITF-14.
- For more data in less space, evaluate GS1 DataMatrix or GS1 QR Code.
- Test the real print size, substrate, scanner and downstream interpretation.
Scope and verification
GS1 is a standards system, not a single barcode symbology. Confirm the identification key, application identifiers, data syntax and carrier separately.