4 Types of Barcodes for E-Commerce Delivery [+How to Use Them]

Barcodes are all around us and incredibly handy. You’ll find them on everything from cereal boxes to boarding passes, in places like grocery stores and hospitals. They make it easy to keep track of inventory, streamline processes, and reduce mistakes. They'll even boost customer satisfaction with their speed and convenience.

There are various types of barcodes, and choosing the right one is crucial. If you've ever been frustrated at a self-checkout, it might be due to a bad barcode choice. Here's a beginner's guide to barcodes, with extra references for those who want to dive deeper.

Common Barcode Types

Each barcode format follows a set of rules, known as a symbology, that defines what characters it can represent and how. There are many barcode symbologies used worldwide. Some are found only in specialized fields like blood banks, postal services, or print shops. Here, we'll focus on the more common types. But if you're interested in exploring Flattermarken, LOGMARs, and Telepen, Austrian barcode software company TEC-IT offers the most thorough barcode overview we've come across.

1D Barcodes

Linear or one-dimensional barcodes are the most widely used type.. They consist of vertical parallel lines and spaces of varying widths. Each represents a character or digit. The familiar cereal box barcode is an example of this.

Linear barcodes allow for quick and accurate reading of small amounts of data, such as product identification numbers or pricing information. They are perfect for applications where simplicity and speed are crucial, like retail point-of-sale systems and inventory management.

These barcodes are sometimes referred to as standard barcodes. Yet, as this article shows, there is no true standard barcode—only the right barcode for the job.

Some of the most commonly used 1D barcodes include:

Code 39

Code 39 barcodes are straightforward. They are initially designed to represent the 26 letters of the English alphabet, the digits 0-9, and a few special characters. It has variations like Code 39 Extended and Code 93, which can encode more characters in a smaller space. For example, Code 39 Extended includes the full ASCII set of 128 characters. It features both upper- and lowercase letters and a full range of special characters.

Each Code 39 barcode includes:

• Start and stop characters: An asterisk (*) marks the beginning and end. 
• This is typically not included in the human-readable text beneath the barcode but is detectable by scanners.
• Data characters: Alphanumeric characters, including some special symbols.
• Inter-character gap: A small space between each character for separation.
• Check digit: Optional, for added accuracy.

Code 128

Code 128 is a highly efficient barcode that uses the full ASCII character set, making it more efficient than Code 39. It's commonly used worldwide, especially for tracking packages.

Each Code 128 barcode consists of several elements (some of which are not visible in the human-readable text):

• Start code: Indicates the character set in use (A, B, or C).
• Data characters: These can be alphanumeric or numeric-only, depending on the character set.
• Check character: Ensures accuracy by being calculated from the data characters.
• Stop code: Signals the end of the barcode.
• Quiet zone: Blank space on either side to ease scanning.

UPC Barcodes

Universal Product Code (UPC) is the primary barcode type used in the US and Canada. UPC-A barcodes consist of 12 digits, while UPC-E is a shorter version with only 8 digits. Both, along with various specialized subcodes, are extensively utilized for tracking the inventory of retail products.

Each UPC barcode comprises three components:

• Manufacturer ID: The initial set of numbers identifies the producer.
• Product ID: The second set represents the specific item.
• Check Digit: The final digit ensures accurate scanning of the code.

Unlike Code 39 and Code 128, where data characters can convey any information, UPCs are specifically designed to encode manufacturer and production details.

UPC barcodes are allocated by the Global Standards Organization. If you need them for your products, all the necessary information is available here.

EAN Barcodes

EAN (European Article Number) codes share similarities with UPC barcodes but are more prevalent outside North America. They incorporate an additional country code, making them widely utilized in global supply chains. Variations include EAN-8, EAN-13, EAN-14, and EAN-18.

The components of EAN codes include:

• Country code: The first 2-3 digits denote the country of origin.
• Manufacturer code: The subsequent 4-5 digits identify the company.
• Product code: These digits specify the item itself.
• Check digit: This final digit ensures precise scanning.

EAN-128 / GS1-128

GS1-128, before known as EAN-128, is derived from Code 128. Its components include:

• Application identifier (AI): A 2-4 digit prefix indicating the type of data that follows. 
• Data field: The actual data, varying in length depending on the AI. 
• Check digit: Ensures accurate scanning of the barcode, though not always mandatory. 
• FNC1: Function Code 1, a special character denoting a GS1-128 barcode. 

GS1-128 serves as a versatile barcode capable of encoding dates, batch numbers, quantities, and more. It's extensively used in logistics and supply chain management.

Additionally, there's a subset of GS1 codes known as GS1 Databar, which is notably compact. It's well-suited for small items with limited space and finds common applications in healthcare and grocery sectors for displaying expiration dates and batch numbers.

GTIN

GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, isn't a single type of barcode but rather a group that encompasses both UPC and EAN barcodes. GTIN barcodes come in various lengths, ranging from 8 to 14 digits, depending on the specific type of barcode employed.

ITF-14

ITF-14, commonly referred to as Interleaved 2 of 5, is the preferred option for cartons and pallets, primarily geared towards bulk handling. With 14 digits, it's tailored for large-scale operations like shipping cases of products.

Key components of an ITF-14 include:

• Indicator digit: Indicates the packaging level, whether it's an item, case, or pallet.
• Company prefix: A distinctive identifier for your business.
• Item reference: Identifies the particular product.
• Check digit: Ensures precise scanning accuracy.

Codabar

Codabar, though old-school, remains relevant, commonly found in libraries, blood banks, and air parcels. It's prized for its simplicity and reliability, particularly suitable for handling small data volumes, and it doesn't necessarily require a check digit, although one can be added if desired.

Codabar encodes the following information:

• Start/stop characters: Designated by letters A, B, C, or D to commence and conclude the code.
• Data characters: Comprising numeric digits and selecting special characters such as $ and /.

MSI and Plessey are closely associated with numeric-only barcodes frequently employed in inventory management and storage. Plessey finds primary usage in library settings.

2D Barcodes: Elevating Data Storage to the Next Level

Matrix barcodes or two-dimensional barcodes, represent a progression from traditional 1D barcodes. Unlike linear barcodes, 2D barcodes can accommodate substantially more data. They use a matrix or grid pattern of squares, dots, or hexagons. This expanded capacity enables the storage of alphanumeric characters, symbols, and even images.

The increased data storage capacity and compatibility with mobile device screens render 2D codes exceptionally versatile. They can contain a wide range of information, including product details, website URLs, or even entire business cards. Moreover, matrix barcodes can be scanned from any direction, enhancing their flexibility and usability.

QR codes

Abbreviated from Quick Response, these codes represent the most widely recognized form of 2D barcode. If you've ever scanned a code on a restaurant table to access their menu, you've experienced their practicality firsthand.

The components of QR codes include:

• Data cells: These are the small squares composing the code.
• Positioning markers: Larger squares aid smartphones or barcode readers in locating the code.
• Alignment patterns: Smaller squares facilitating code alignment.

QR Codes are frequently employed in marketing to direct users to websites or videos. Additionally, their usage for contactless payments is steadily gaining popularity.

Data Matrix: Versatile Barcode Solution

Data Matrix codes find widespread usage in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing sectors. Their compact size and high data storage capacity make them particularly well-suited for labeling small components.

Key Components:

• Data region: This area houses the encoded information.
• Finder pattern: The distinctive "L" shaped pattern aids scanners in locating the code.

PDF417: Travel Ticket and Boarding Pass Standard

PDF417 is a commonly encountered format on travel tickets and boarding passes, renowned for its extensive data storage capabilities.

Essential Features:

• Data columns: Vertical lines responsible for storing data.
• Start and stop patterns: These patterns assist scanners in identifying the beginning and end of the code.

Aztec Codes: Efficient Solution for Airline Industry

Aztec Codes are commonly utilized in the airline industry, particularly for mobile boarding passes. Due to their ease of display and scanning from a phone screen, they are also extensively employed for event tickets.

Aztec codes boast compactness and do not need a quiet zone (the blank area around a barcode). Their anatomy comprises:

• Data cells: Concentric square rings are responsible for storing the data.
• Finder pattern: The central bullseye aids scanners in locating the code.

MaxiCode: Package Sorting and Tracking Barcode

MaxiCode is a prevalent 2D matrix barcode utilized extensively for sorting and tracking packages.

Key Components:

• Data region: Hexagonal dots that store information.
• Finder pattern: A central bullseye facilitating easy scanning.

Specialized Barcodes

ISBN and ISSN: Specialized Identification Systems

The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a dedicated encoding system reserved solely for books. It serves as a distinctive identifier aiding publishers, libraries, and bookstores in managing their inventories. Though not strictly a barcode, the ISBN is frequently transformed into a scannable format like EAN-13 to enhance the tracking process.

ISSN, or International Standard Serial Number, is employed for newspapers, journals, magazines, and periodicals.

An ISBN comprises:

• Prefix: A 3-digit EAN prefix indicating it's a book, typically "978" or "979."
• Group identifier: Specifies the language or country of origin.
• Publisher code: Identifies the book's publisher.
• Item number: Indicates the specific book title.
• Check digit: Ensures accurate scanning.

ISBN codes play a vital role in the global book trade, simplifying order management, listings, and inventories. They are commonly located on the back cover or copyright page of the book. For small e-commerce businesses specializing in books, understanding ISBN codes is crucial for efficient inventory management.

POSTNET: Mail Sorting Barcode

POSTNET is utilized by the US Postal Service for mail sorting purposes.

Components Include:

• Data characters: Numeric digits representing ZIP codes.
• Check digit: A feature aiding in accurate scanning.

3D Barcodes

Stacked barcodes, also known as 3D barcodes, present a more advanced form of barcode. It is capable of storing information across many layers. In contrast to flat 1D and 2D barcodes, 3D barcodes use multiple levels or layers of data storage. That enables higher data capacity and more intricate information organization.

These barcodes are particularly helpful in scenarios requiring extensive data storage within confined spaces. They find widespread application in sectors such as healthcare and logistics. That is where encoding comprehensive information like patient records or shipment details is essential.

While the majority of codes utilized in e-commerce retail are 1D or 2D barcodes, the utility and potential of 3D barcodes continue to expand.

Selecting the Appropriate Barcode for Your Business

The barcode type you opt for can have substantial repercussions for your business activities. It can impact:

Operational Efficiency: Barcodes facilitate swift and precise data acquisition. Selecting the appropriate barcode type can augment the efficiency of inventory management, order processing, and overall supply chain functions.

Data Precision: Various barcode types provide differing levels of data precision. Advanced barcodes like 2D or 3D barcodes have the potential to minimize errors and enhance the accuracy of stored information.

Below are some considerations to ponder when selecting barcode types for your business:

• Data Requirements: Evaluate the volume of information you need to store. 
• Space Constraints: Assess the available space on the product for a barcode. 
• Market Reach: Consider whether you are selling domestically or internationally. 
• Adaptability: Some barcode formats offer more versatility for diverse applications.

Numerous companies specialize in barcode software and label printing, providing valuable resources for further information:

• TEC-IT, headquartered in Austria, provides barcode creator software and label printing solutions. Their free online barcode generator was utilized to generate the barcode samples in this article.
• Barcode-labels.com offers customized label printing services along with expert advice.

GS1 serves as the authoritative source for UPC and EAN codes.