This page opens on GS1-128 with an SSCC, the number that identifies a pallet or parcel, and a 4 × 6 inch label roll selected for thermal shipping printers. The example uses GS1’s demonstration prefix 952 and leaves the last digit off: the page completes the SSCC check digit, and the table below shows the fields the barcode carries.
Building an SSCC
An SSCC has 18 digits. The first is an extension digit (0 to 9) that you can use to split your numbering, then comes your GS1 Company Prefix, then a serial reference you count up for every pallet or parcel, and finally the check digit. Keep a simple counter per shipping location so a number is never issued twice. In batch mode, Fill a numbered sequence can create a run of serial references; switch the prefix to (00) and your digits.
More than a pallet number
The same barcode can carry product data with other identifiers: (01) for a case GTIN, (10) for a batch, (17) for an expiry date written as YYMMDD, (37) for the number of cases on a pallet. Retailers and 3PLs publish which identifiers they want on their labels, and they often ask for the SSCC in its own barcode at the bottom of the label.
Printing
Keep the module width at 0.495 mm or more and the bars 31.75 mm tall, as GS1 sets for logistics labels, and leave 10 modules clear on both sides. Download the PDF for the 4 × 6 roll, or pick a different sheet under Print on labels. At 203 dpi, a thermal printer’s 4-dot module gives 0.5 mm, which the note under PNG confirms.
What this example carries
| AI | Meaning | Value |
|---|---|---|
| (00) | SSCC (serial shipping container code), 18 digits | 095201230000000011 |
Common Application Identifiers
| (00) | SSCC (serial shipping container code), 18 digits |
| (01) | GTIN of the trade item, 14 digits |
| (02) | GTIN of the items inside |
| (10) | Batch or lot number, up to 20 characters |
| (11) | Production date, YYMMDD |
| (15) | Best before date, YYMMDD |
| (17) | Expiration date, YYMMDD |
| (21) | Serial number, up to 20 characters |
| (37) | Count of items inside, up to 8 digits |
| (400) | Customer’s purchase order number |