EAN128
EAN128 is a technical standard that can be used to assign unique barcodes. These barcodes are used in logistics to simplify the movement of goods, transport and storage. The EAN128 is based on the Code128 and has been officially called “GS1-128” since 2009. Every barcode created according to the EAN128 is uniquely identifiable.
Structure of the EAN128
The EAN128 is composed of three basic elements: The International Location Number (ILN), the European Article Number (EAN) and the Shipping Unit Number. The ILN is a standardized format consisting of 13 digits that makes a company or its parts uniquely identifiable throughout the world. The EAN also has 13 digits and offers the possibility to identify articles and goods worldwide. The most important part of the EAN128 is the NVE. The 18 digits provide a unique identification of shipping units. Although this does not tell you which items are contained in a shipment, it does allow you to identify and record the shipment itself.
Contents of an EAN128 barcode
An EAN128 barcode can store over 70 different data elements. For example, it can contain shipping data such as the weight, the recipient’s order data, or a batch number. Other data includes expiration date, identification numbers or internal information. Thus, the EAN128 becomes a means of transport for a variety of different data and information that is important for the movement of goods.
Limitation of the EAN128
The EAN128 has been provided with a limitation regarding the size of the barcodes. In total, a barcode may not be longer than 165 mm. Here the light zones are included. A maximum of 48 user data characters or 35 symbol characters may be stored in this area. If more data is stored in the barcode, it can be assumed that common EAN128 barcode scanners will not be able to read and decode the information completely.
Advantages of EAN128
The EAN128 simplifies the entire goods traffic and especially the tracking and tracing. By scanning the barcode at all points of contact, both sender and recipient can always track where the shipment is at any given time. The process is therefore characterized by a high level of transparency. The EAN128 also effectively prevents errors that can occur with characters due to incorrect scanning. Reading errors are additionally prevented by an included check digit. In contrast to normal 1D barcodes, EAN128 barcodes can transmit considerably more information.
