Code 128

Code 128 is a compact linear barcode originally developed in 1981. Its high data density and ability to encode extensive product information makes it popular for use in logistics, healthcare, transportation (particularly shipping) and retail.

A Code 128 barcode is one dimensional, characterized by a single set of varying-width vertical lines and spaces. It can encode alphabetical characters (A to Z, upper and lower case), numeric digits (0 to 9) and all standard ASC11 symbols and control codes.

GS1-128 (formerly known as UCC/EAN-128) is a subset of Code 128 and is used extensively worldwide in shipping and packaging industries as a product identification code.

Characteristics of a Code 128 barcode

• One of the most extensively used barcodes.
• Encodes numbers, letters and all standard ASCII symbols and control codes.
• Is separated into three subsets A, B and C, supporting a large selection of characters.
• Can encode numerical data only or two different subsets of the ASCII table. Combinations of the three different subsets can be used in a single code.
• Can contain GS1 encoded data.
• Supports variable length data content.
• Verifies a mandatory checksum.
• Compatible with UCC/EAN coding standards, making it ideal for global distribution systems.
• Standardized use through the ISO/IEC 15417 international standard.

Code 128 application areas

Code 128 is ideal for applications in industries that require a large amount of data encoded in a small space, including:

• Logistics: on shipping labels and packaging to track items through supply chains. GS1-128, a subset of Code 128, is used widely as a product identification code.
• Retail: to track and manage stock inventory including stock levels and pricing.
• Healthcare: for patient identification, medication management and medical equipment tracking. The ISBT 128 barcode symbology is a global standard based on the Code 128 barcode. It was developed by the International Council for Commonality in Blood Banking Automation (ICCBBA) for identifying, coding and labeling medical products of human origin (including blood, cell, tissue, milk, and organ products).
• Asset Management: in manufacturing, warehousing and other industries to track and trace raw goods, components, equipment and finished products.

Compatibility

Most barcode scanners can read Code 128 barcodes by default, including laser barcode scanners, linear imagers and smart devices equipped with a camera and barcode scanning app.

Scandit’s barcode scanning software supports all major barcode types, including Code 128 barcodes.

Regarding Code 128 barcodes specifically, the Scandit Barcode Scanner SDK:

• Has a mandatory checksum (including 1 checksum and 2 guard symbols).
• Supports color inversion.
• Removes the leading FNC1 character that indicates a GS1 code – enabled by default.
• Enforces strict standard adherence to eliminate false positives in blurry, irregular or damaged barcodes.

Code 128 FAQs

What is Code 128 barcode used for?

Code 128 barcodes are ideal to encode a large amount of data in a small space. They are used extensively in logistics to identify shipments and packages, for inventory management in retail and to track items in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors.

What is the difference between a Code 39 and Code 128 barcode?

Code 128 and Code 39 barcodes are both popular choices for encoding alphanumeric data and letters in a barcode symbol.

Code 128, however, has a much higher data density than Code 39 and can encode all 128 ASCII characters. This makes it capable of encoding more data in a small space and suitable for labeling very small items. Code 39 currently has a more limited data capacity of 43 characters.

Code 39 also has no error correction capability (i.e. the ability to restore data and remain scannable even if damaged), whereas Code 128 includes a mandatory error correction character.

How do you create a Code 128 barcode?

You can create a Code 128 barcode using Scandit’s free barcode generator tool.

How long can a Code 128 barcode be?

Code 128 is a variable-length barcode, meaning it has no limit on the number of characters that can be encoded.

Is GS1-128 the same as Code 128?

GS1-128 (formerly known as UCC/EAN-128) is a subset of Code 128 and is used extensively worldwide in shipping and packaging industries as a product identification code.

What characters are allowed in Code 128?

A Code 128 barcode can encode alphabetical characters (A to Z, upper and lower case), numeric digits (0 to 9) and all standard ASC11 symbols and control codes.