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Barcode Types Explained

A guide to the most common barcode formats — what they are, what they're used for, and when to choose each one.

1D vs 2D barcodes

1D barcodes store data in vertical bars and spaces. They are read horizontally by a laser or camera scanner. Best for numeric or simple alphanumeric data. Scan in one direction.
2D barcodes store data in a grid or matrix pattern. They are read by a camera in any orientation. Can store much more data including URLs, contact cards, and structured data.

1D Barcode Formats

Code 128

1D

A high-density 1D barcode supporting letters, numbers, and most ASCII characters. Best general-purpose business barcode.

Data type: Alphanumeric (ASCII)Max length: ~80 chars
Inventory labelsWarehouse managementShipping referencesInternal product IDs
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Code 39

1D

A simple 1D barcode for uppercase letters, digits, and limited symbols. Common in legacy systems and asset tags.

Data type: A-Z, 0-9, space, - . $ / + %Max length: ~50 chars
Asset tagsSimple inventoryLegacy system labelsDefense/military
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EAN-13

1D

International retail product barcode. Requires 12 or 13 digits; check digit is calculated automatically.

Data type: 12 or 13 digitsMax length: ~13 chars
Retail productsInternational tradeProduct mockupsTesting checkout systems
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UPC-A

1D

Standard retail barcode in the US and Canada. Requires 11 or 12 digits; check digit is auto-calculated.

Data type: 11 or 12 digitsMax length: ~12 chars
US/Canada retailProduct mockupsTesting POS systemsE-commerce listings
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UPC-E

1D

Compact zero-suppressed version of UPC-A for small retail packages. Accepts 6, 7, or 8 digits.

Data type: 6, 7, or 8 digitsMax length: ~8 chars
Small retail packagesLimited label spaceCompact product labels
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ITF-14

1D

Used on cartons and shipping cases. Requires 13 or 14 digits; check digit is auto-calculated.

Data type: 13 or 14 digitsMax length: ~14 chars
Shipping cartonsWarehouse casesLogistics packagingPallet labels
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Codabar

1D

Legacy 1D barcode used in libraries, blood banks, and older inventory systems.

Data type: Digits, - $ : / . +Max length: ~60 chars
LibrariesBlood banksLegacy inventoryOvernight delivery
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2D Barcode Formats

QR Code

2D

The most popular 2D barcode. Stores URLs, text, Wi-Fi credentials, vCards, and more.

Data type: Text, URL, structured dataMax length: ~4296 chars
URLs and linksWi-Fi loginContact cardsMarketing campaigns
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Data Matrix

2D

Compact 2D barcode ideal for small items, industrial marking, and healthcare.

Data type: Text and numbersMax length: ~2335 chars
Small item markingElectronics componentsHealthcare labelsIndustrial parts
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PDF417

2D

Stacked 2D barcode capable of storing large amounts of data including documents and IDs.

Data type: Long text and binaryMax length: ~1800 chars
Government IDsShipping formsBoarding passesEvent tickets
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Aztec Code

2D

Compact 2D code used for tickets and transportation. Does not require a quiet zone.

Data type: Text and URLMax length: ~3832 chars
Train/bus ticketsBoarding passesMobile ticketingTransport documents
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MaxiCode

2D

Fixed-size 2D code used in shipping and parcel sorting. Associated with logistics workflows.

Data type: Structured or textMax length: ~138 chars
Parcel routingShipping labelsHigh-speed sortingCarrier labels
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Frequently Asked Questions About Barcode Types