Variable Barcode Label Printing

How It Works

The barcode is not placed as a pre-made image. It is calculated at print time from the data value, which keeps bar ratios correct at any size and avoids the scaling distortion that makes image-based barcodes unreadable.

The simplest form is a sequence: A000001, A000002, A000003. If you already generate codes in your own system, we print your list instead.

Numbering Schemes

• Sequential: starts at one, increments by one. Sufficient for warehouse and asset tracking.
• Prefix + sequence: ETP-2026-000145. The prefix carries year, line or product group.
• Date-based: the production date is embedded, which simplifies batch recall.
• From your list: codes generated in your ERP; we only print them.
• With check digit: the final digit validates the rest, catching manual entry errors.
• Unpredictable: non-sequential distributed codes for security applications.

Choosing a Symbology

• Code 128 — the default. Letters and digits, flexible length, compact.
• Code 39 — older and wider. Only for compatibility with existing readers.
• EAN-13 — retail. These numbers are allocated through GS1 membership and cannot be generated arbitrarily.
• DataMatrix — reads at very small sizes and tolerates partial damage.
• GS1-128 — carries batch, expiry and quantity in one symbol using standard identifiers.

Size and Readability

Three things determine whether a barcode scans: bar width, the quiet zone on either side, and contrast. Requests to shrink a label usually take from the first two. Always proof at actual print size and test with your own reader.