GS1-128 Pharmaceutical Barcode Guide
Master the global standard for drug serialization. This guide explains how to format GS1-128 barcodes for regulatory compliance using our free online tools.
Why Pharma Relies on GS1-128
In the pharmaceutical supply chain, accuracy isn't just about efficiency—it's about patient safety. Regulatory frameworks like the DSCSA (USA) and EU FMD (Europe) mandate the use of GS1-128 barcodes on secondary packaging. This format allows a single scan to capture the product identifier, batch number, and expiration date simultaneously.
Serialization Tool: GS1-128 Generator
Use the tool below to generate compliant GS1-128 strings for single units or entire production batches. Enter your data using standard Application Identifiers (AIs) in parentheses, or use the Guided Mode to fill in fields for GTIN, Expiry, and Batch.
Pharma Output
(01)09501234567890(17)251231(10)LOT123A(21)10001
Understanding Application Identifiers (AIs)
The "magic" of GS1-128 lies in its Application Identifiers—the numbers in parentheses that define what the following data represents. For pharmaceutical serialization, four AIs are essential:
- (01) GTIN: The Global Trade Item Number (14 digits) identifying the drug type.
- (17) Expiry: The expiration date in YYMMDD format.
- (10) Batch: The batch or lot number (alphanumeric).
- (21) Serial: The unique serial number for that specific unit (DSCSA requirement).