Supported Barcode Formats
Barcodes are widely used across industries for tracking, labeling, and encoding data. With a variety of formats available, from simple one-dimensional linear codes to complex two-dimensional matrix codes. This article presents a comprehensive list of supported barcode formats. Whether you are generating barcodes or decoding them, this information will help you choose the most suitable format for your needs.
QR & 2D Barcode
Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes can encode significantly more data than traditional linear barcodes while using less physical space. They are widely used in industries such as logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and marketing due to their efficiency and versatility. This section highlights the supported 2D barcode formats, including popular types like QR Code, Data Matrix, and Aztec, as well as specialized formats such as MaxiCode for shipping and Intelligent Mail for postal services. Each format has unique characteristics designed to suit different use cases, ranging from compact labeling to high-speed scanning and error correction.
QR Code
Micro QR Code
Rectangular Micro Code
Aztec
Data Matrix
MaxiCode
Intelligent Mail Barcode
The Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB), also known as IM Barcode, USPS OneCode Barcode, or IMB, is a one-dimensional barcode used by the United States Postal Service (USPS) for sorting and tracking mail. It combines routing and tracking information into a single code, enabling more efficient mail handling. IMB encodes up to 31 digits of numeric data, including fields such as the mailer ID, service type, and serial number. It is primarily used in bulk and automated mail systems rather than for general-purpose data encoding.
Modern Linear Barcodes
Code 39
Code 128
GS1-128
The GS1-128 is a variant of Code 128, which can encode all ASCII alphanumeric characters in a barcode format. GS1-128 defines both data types and formats that are used for exchange and logistics between entities. Food companies use this barcoding format to share company, product, and shipping information.
PDF417
Databar (Formerly RSS14)
Databar Expanded (Formerly RSS Expanded)
- Support for stacked linear rendering.
- GS1 Support
Older Linear Barcodes
UPC-A
UPC-E
EAN-8
EAN-13
CodaBar
ITF (Interleaved Two of Five)
MSI
Plessey (Write Only)
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of barcodes can be generated or decoded using IronBarcode?
IronBarcode supports a wide range of barcode formats, including both one-dimensional linear codes and two-dimensional matrix codes. Popular formats such as QR Code, Data Matrix, Aztec, Code 39, Code 128, and many others are supported.
What are some examples of 2D barcodes supported by IronBarcode?
IronBarcode supports various 2D barcode formats including QR Code, Data Matrix, Aztec, MaxiCode, and Intelligent Mail Barcode. These formats are efficient for encoding larger amounts of data in a compact space.
Can IronBarcode handle older linear barcode formats?
Yes, IronBarcode supports older linear barcode formats such as UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, CodaBar, ITF, MSI, and Plessey.
What is the difference between QR Code and Micro QR Code?
A QR Code is a two-dimensional barcode that can store a significant amount of data, while a Micro QR Code is a smaller version designed for applications where space is a constraint, although it stores less data compared to a standard QR Code.
What is the purpose of the Intelligent Mail Barcode?
The Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMB) is used by the United States Postal Service for sorting and tracking mail. It combines routing and tracking information into a single code, optimizing mail handling processes.
How does the GS1-128 barcode format differ from Code 128?
GS1-128 is a variant of Code 128 that includes additional data types and formats for exchange and logistics, commonly used in the food industry for sharing company, product, and shipping information.
What industries commonly use 2D barcodes like QR Code and Data Matrix?
2D barcodes are extensively used in industries such as logistics, healthcare, manufacturing, and marketing due to their ability to encode more data in less space and their versatility.
What are Databar and Databar Expanded barcodes used for?
Databar and Databar Expanded (formerly RSS14 and RSS Expanded) are used in retail and inventory management, with support for stacked linear rendering and GS1 data encoding.
What is a MaxiCode and where is it typically used?
MaxiCode is a 2D barcode format used primarily for high-speed package sorting and tracking in the shipping industry due to its ability to be scanned in any orientation.
Can IronBarcode be used for generating barcodes for postal services?
Yes, IronBarcode supports generating barcodes like the Intelligent Mail Barcode, which is specifically designed for use in postal services by the USPS.
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