Make barcodes work in the real workflow

STEP 01

Decide what the code identifies

Distinguish a product type, an individual item, a batch and a storage location. Write down the system of record and who assigns identifiers. A code that looks unique in a spreadsheet may collide when another warehouse starts using the same numbering scheme.

STEP 02

Choose the format for the destination

Check the scanner, trading partner and destination system requirements before choosing a barcode format. A retail product identifier is not interchangeable with an internal location code. Confirm any identifier licensing or standards requirements with the relevant standards organisation.

STEP 03

Design around the actual label

Use a consistent size and avoid stretching the artwork. Keep the barcode area clear of folds, seams and other graphics. Put human-readable information nearby so an operator can investigate when a scan fails.

STEP 04

Test the whole path

Print on the intended device and material, apply to a real item and scan with the production scanner. Confirm the receiving application stores the exact expected value, including leading zeros. Test damaged, curved and low-contrast examples before a large rollout.

Choose the right next step

• Internal stock label: define your identifier rules and collision checks first.
• Retail or partner label: obtain their format and data requirements before generating artwork.
• Repeated scan failure: separate print quality, scanner configuration and application parsing in your investigation.

Reference and further reading

GS1 standards repository

Use the linked publisher’s current instructions for its products or standards. The workflow and example above are original TechEdges educational material.