Barcode Guide: Types, Use Cases, and Creation

What is a barcode?

A barcode is a coding system consisting of parallel lines and spaces that represent data. Read by optical scanners (barcode scanners).

1D (one-dimensional) barcodes: Data is carried in one dimension (horizontal). Stores 20-25 characters. EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128 are the most common types.

2D (two-dimensional) barcodes: Data is carried in both dimensions. Stores 4000+ characters. QR code, Data Matrix, PDF417 are the most common types.

Barcode types

EAN-13: 13 digits, most common for retail products. Managed by GS1 in Turkey.

EAN-8: 8 digits, for small products (cigarettes, gum, etc.).

UPC-A: 12 digits, used in US and Canada. Predecessor of EAN-13.

Code 128: Alphanumeric, for logistics and shipping. High data density.

Code 39: Alphanumeric, used in military and healthcare sectors. Lower data density.

ITF-14: 14 digits, for carton and pallet labels.

Barcode creation tips

1. Choose the right format: Retail product → EAN-13. Logistics → Code 128. Web → QR code.

2. Size: Barcode should be at least 1.5 cm wide. Very small barcodes cannot be scanned.

3. Contrast: Dark lines on light background. Black and white is most reliable.

4. Print quality: Insufficient print quality makes scanning difficult. Test print first.

5. EAN code acquisition: Purchase EAN code (GTIN) from GS1 Turkey (gs1.org.tr). A unique code is required for each product.

Barcode vs QR code

Barcode (1D): 20-25 characters, one dimension, read with scanner. Ideal for retail products.

QR code (2D): 4000+ characters, two dimensions, read with camera. Ideal for web redirection, Wi-Fi, vCard.

Barcodes are more common in POS systems, QR codes are more common on mobile devices.

Utilgo barcode tools

Utilgo offers barcode generator (Code128, EAN13, EAN8, UPC) and label & barcode designer tools. Label design, bulk barcode generation, and printing support are available.