In today's global supply chain, accurate and compliant labeling is more important than ever. Whether you're shipping retail goods, medical products, or industrial components, GS1 barcodes are the global standard that ensures traceability, efficiency, and compliance. In this guide, you'll learn exactly what GS1 barcodes are, how to create them online with our GS1 barcode generator.

What Is a GS1 Barcode?

GS1 barcodes are standardized barcodes used worldwide to encode product and shipment information in a machine-readable format. Governed by the nonprofit GS1 organization, these barcodes are essential for global commerce, logistics, and regulatory compliance.

There are several types of GS1 barcodes, including:

1. GS1-128 Barcode

● Linear barcode based on Code 128 symbology.

● Used primarily in logistics, warehousing, and packaging.

● Can encode multiple data points using Application Identifiers (AIs).

Commonly Used AIs in GS1-128:

2. GS1 DataBar Barcode

● Compact linear barcode used for space-restricted labeling.

● Commonly used in retail, pharmaceuticals, and fresh food packaging. Ideal for small items that can't accommodate standard barcodes, while still ensuring GS1 compliance and reliable scanning.

● Available in several formats such as

- GS1 DataBar Omnidirectional

- GS1 DataBar Stacked

- GS1 DataBar Expanded

Each optimized for different scanning environments and data needs.

● Can encode GTINs and, in extended formats, additional data like expiration dates and batch numbers using Application Identifiers (AIs), though it offers less flexibility compared to GS1-128.

3. GS1 DataMatrix

A 2D barcode used in space-constrained applications.

●Common in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and electronics.

●Compact and can hold a large amount of structured data.

●Suitable for direct part marking and high-speed scanning.

4. GS1 QR Code

● A QR code variant standardized by GS1.

● Often used for consumer engagement, product traceability, or linking to a webpage.

● Can encode both human-readable information and machine-readable identifiers (e.g., GTIN + URL).

Why You Need a GS1 Barcode Generator

Using a GS1 barcode creator ensures that your barcodes follow the official standards for structure and data encoding. This prevents scanning errors, shipment rejections, or compliance violations.

A quality GS1 barcode creator helps you:

● Generate valid GS1-128 barcodes with the correct AI syntax

● Customize barcodes with GTINs, batch numbers, expiration dates, etc.

● Export barcodes in high-resolution formats for printing or digital use

How to Use GS1 Barcode Generator to Create GS1-128 Barcodes Online

While there are many free barcode generators available online, most only handle basics like UPC, EAN, or QR codes. Our OnlineToolCenter barcode creator goes further. It's built for professionals and supports nearly every barcode type used across industries.

Our GS1-128, GS1 DataBar barcode generator is built for simplicity, speed, and full compliance. No software installation is required—just enter your data, choose the barcode type, and generate. You can adjust width, height, and export format like PNG, SVG with ease. It's fast, flexible, and fully GS1-compliant—ideal for hassle-free barcode creation.

Here's how to quickly create compliant barcodes online with our GS1-128 barcode generator, step by step.

1. Select GS1-128 as your barcode type.

2. Input your data using the correct AI format (e.g., 01 for GTIN, 10 for Lot Number).

3. Preview your barcode and adjust size, color, and others.

4. Download your barcode as PNG, SVG, or JPG for use on packaging or documents.

Avoid These Common GS1 Barcode Mistakes

Even a minor error in formatting or data structure can cause scan failures or regulatory problems. Watch out for:

● Incorrect AI syntax (e.g., missing parentheses)

● Using non-registered GTINs

● Overcrowded barcodes with too much data

● Poor resolution or incorrect label sizes

Using a powerful, flexible GS1 barcode generator ensures accuracy, speed, and peace of mind. Ready to create yours? Try our GS1 Barcode Generator and start generating GS1-128 compliant barcodes in seconds.