GS1-128 is the dominant pallet barcode standard, encoding SSCC plus Application Identifiers.
Detailed Definition
GS1-128 (formerly UCC-128, also known as EAN-128) is a barcode symbology based on Code 128 that GS1 uses to encode data with Application Identifiers (AIs). On a pallet label it carries the Serial Shipping Container Code under AI (00), plus optional AIs for GTIN, batch or lot number, expiration date, count and other supply chain attributes. The barcode is scanned at shipping, receiving and putaway so each unit load can be matched to its shipment records.
How Application Identifiers work
Each data element in a GS1-128 barcode starts with a numeric AI that tells the scanner what follows and how long it is. Common examples on logistics labels:
- (00) SSCC, the 18-digit unique identifier for the pallet.
- (01) or (02) GTIN of the trade item or of the items contained.
- (10) batch or lot number.
- (17) expiration date in YYMMDD form.
- (37) count of trade items contained.
Fixed-length AIs can be strung together directly; variable-length fields such as a lot number need a separator character when followed by another field.
Getting pallet labels right
The GS1 logistic label combines a human-readable text section with one or more GS1-128 barcodes. Receivers expect the SSCC on the label to match the SSCC sent in the advance ship notice (ASN), so the label and EDI data must come from the same system. Common failures are poor print contrast, labels placed over stretch wrap seams or around corners, and duplicated SSCCs. Check the GS1 logistic label guideline and each customer's routing guide for label size and placement, which are often specified as two labels on adjacent sides of the pallet.
Authoritative Sources
- GS1 US (GS1): the standards organization that defines pallet labeling, the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC-18), and the GS1-128 barcode.
- Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA): the trade association representing the largest US retailers, whose member-driven pallet specifications define receiving requirements at distribution centers.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GS1-128 and an SSCC?
The SSCC is a number: an 18-digit identifier assigned to one logistic unit such as a pallet. GS1-128 is the barcode symbology used to print that number, along with other data, in a scannable form. On a pallet label the SSCC is encoded in a GS1-128 barcode with the AI (00) in front of it. The same SSCC can also be carried in other GS1 data carriers, such as EPC RFID tags.
Can I print GS1-128 labels myself?
Yes, with label software and a thermal printer that supports GS1-128, but the data must be valid. You need a GS1 Company Prefix from your GS1 member organization, such as GS1 US, to create SSCCs and GTINs, and the check digits must be calculated correctly. Test-scan labels with a verifier or at least a good scanner, and confirm the label layout against your customers' routing guides before shipping.