What is the process for creating (encoding) a GS1-128 or EAN128 barcode?

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The process for creating an EAN-128 (GS1-128) barcode involves the following steps:

1. Obtain a GS1 Company Prefix: The first step in creating an EAN-128 barcode is to obtain a GS1 Company Prefix from GS1, which provides unique identification numbers to companies.

2. Assign Application Identifiers (AI): Next, assign the application identifiers or AIs to each data field under the EAN-128 barcode structure. Each AI represents specific information or data about the product such as lot number, serial number, expiration date, etc.

3. Encode the Data: Encode the data to be included in the barcode by selecting an appropriate barcode symbology such as Code128 or GS1-128. Data encoding software can be used to generate the barcode image.

4. Generate the Barcode Image: Generate the barcode image with a barcode generator tool. The image should have the necessary quiet zones on each side of the barcode.

5. Print and Test the Barcode: Print the EAN-128 barcode image on the product label, packaging, or shipping carton, and perform quality testing to ensure that the barcode is scannable.

6. Register the Barcode: Register the barcode with GS1 to ensure it is unique and conforms to industry standards.

7. Use the Barcode: Once the barcode is registered and verified, it can now be used for product inventory, tracking, and shipping purposes.