One barcode holds the batch number, date, quantity, and entity identity. GS1-128 uses Application Identifiers to write supply chain information into the symbol in a structured way, making it a common carrier for batch traceability and compliance declarations.
The example number is generated in real time according to the standard (including mod10 check digit). The actual number is assigned by the coding association.
GS1-128 is a carrier under the GS1 system that carriesApplication Identifier (AI)variable-length data carrier, whose symbol is based on Code 128. Unlike retail product codes that carry only one GTIN, it combines information such as "batch number, production date, shelf life, quantity, consignor and consignee" into the same barcode by AI.
Carry the batch number, production date, shelf life, and product code together
SSCC (18-digit Serial Shipping Container Code) is printed with GS1-128 as its carrier
Scenarios where regulatory systems require structured batch information to accompany goods
What GS1-128 carries is not a number with a fixed meaning, but structured information that appears in groups of "Application Identifier + corresponding data".
| Composition | Number of digits | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Start character + codeword | Variable length | Uses the Code 128 symbology; in Subset C, every two digits are compressed into one codeword |
| Application Identifier (AI) | 2–4 digits | Specifies "what the data that immediately follows is"; defined uniformly by GS1 with globally consistent meaning |
| Data content | Depends on the AI | Batch number, date, quantity, consignor/consignee, etc., arranged according to the selected AI combination |
| Check character + stop character | Fixed | The symbol check character is calculated according to Code 128 rules and ends with the stop character |
Uses the Code 128 symbology, variable length, with symbol width determined by data length.
Each AI specifies "what the following string of data is"; multiple AIs can be arranged consecutively.
When an AI specifies a maximum length, a separator marks the end to avoid parsing ambiguity.
A barcode is not something that is done once and then finished — when company information changes, when the right to use the codes needs to be maintained, or when the business is transferred, the corresponding procedures must be handled.
The data categories to be carried (batch number / date / quantity / consignor/consignee, etc.) and the accepted format of the target channel
Prepare according to the registration documents of the location of the applying entity; see the checklist on the right
Submit the application to the GS1 member organization and wait for the company prefix to be assigned
After the AI combination scheme is determined, encode the structured data into the GS1-128 symbol
The following situations require a change:
A change certificate issued by the local registration authority must be provided
The company prefix remains unchanged; only the enterprise information in the system is updated
Already printed packaging can usually continue to be used, with no need to reprint the barcode graphic
Member organizations differ in how they maintain code usage rights (annual membership fee system or validity period renewal system), subject to the current policy of that member organization. If not maintained on time, the code may be suspended or reclaimed, and the normal circulation of goods in channels will be affected.
Customers who have already processed through Bangma International can register for expiry reminders free of charge.
During mergers and acquisitions, brand transfers, or business restructuring, the company prefix can be transferred as an asset together with the business. The transfer requires a joint application by both parties and completion of changes to entity information and ownership.
The total fee usually includes: the barcode service fee charged by the member organization (based on tier and number of years) + agency service fee. Factors affecting the fee:
Once all documents are complete, the review and allocation process begins; timelines vary by country
No new code allocation is involved, so the process is relatively simple
Involves ownership confirmation; the timeline depends on how prepared both parties' materials are
The above is a description of the process sequence and does not fabricate specific numbers of days. The actual timeline is subject to the accepting organization's current announcements and processing progress, and we will keep you updated at every stage during the process.
