Free GS1-128 barcode generator
GS1-128 is Code 128 with a data structure on top. It lets one label carry a GTIN, an expiry date, a batch and more, each tagged with an Application Identifier.
Barcode format
Application Identifiers in brackets, e.g. (01)GTIN(17)YYMMDD(10)LOT. The GTIN check digit is verified.
Keep strong contrast (dark bars on a light background) and leave a clear margin, or scanners may fail to read it.
Preview
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GTINs and SSCCs are built on a company prefix licensed by GS1. This tool formats and draws the data; it does not issue prefixes or numbers.
What is GS1-128?
Each piece of data starts with an Application Identifier, written in brackets in the human-readable line: (01) is a GTIN, (17) an expiry date as YYMMDD, (10) a batch or lot, (21) a serial number, (00) a pallet SSCC. The brackets are not encoded; the symbol uses a special FNC1 character after the start to mark itself as GS1-128.
Because the structure is strict, mistakes matter. This generator checks that the input uses bracketed identifiers and verifies the GTIN check digit, so a mistyped (01) value is caught before it is printed.
When to use GS1-128
Shipping cartons and pallets in a supply chain that follows GS1 standards.
Food, pharma or retail goods that need batch and expiry on the label.
Internal warehouse labels that want the same structured format as partners use.
How to make a GS1-128 barcode
- 1
Type the element string with each identifier in brackets and no spaces, for example (01)09506000134352(17)261231(10)LOT42.
- 2
The GTIN check digit is verified. Fix the number if the tool reports a mismatch.
- 3
Download SVG for label software, or PNG and PDF for proofs.
- 4
Confirm with your trading partner's label specification for placement and size.
GS1-128 questions
What does (01) and (17) mean?
They are Application Identifiers. (01) means the next 14 digits are a GTIN, and (17) means the next six are an expiry date as year, month, day. Each identifier fixes the length and meaning of its data.
Do the brackets get printed in the barcode?
No. They only separate identifiers for humans and in this input. The bars hold the identifiers and data with FNC1 markers where needed.
How is GS1-128 different from Code 128?
The bars are the same Code 128 symbology. The GS1 version adds the FNC1 start flag and a rule that the content is made of standard Application Identifiers.
Can I use this for a pallet label?
You can encode an SSCC with (00) followed by 18 digits. Pallet labels also have layout rules from your trading partner, so follow their specification for size and placement.
Related barcode formats
Need a code people scan with their phone?
Barcodes hold short numbers. For links, Wi-Fi, contact cards and more, create a QR code.
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