Store Printing Barcodes

The GoToTags Store can print static and variable barcodes in a variety of formats including QR Code, Data Matrix and Code 128; there are a few things the customer needs to know to receive printed barcodes that will scan well in the intended environment and application.

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Printing Barcodes

The GoToTags Store can print both static and variable 1D and 2D barcodes on many tag products. Maximizing the contrast of a barcode through the use of standard black print ensures the barcode can be properly scanned. Barcodes should also be large enough to scan well; 20 mm x 20 mm is the suggested minimum size for a QR code. Data Matrix barcodes can be used when smaller 2D barcodes are desired.

Static Barcodes

A static or bulk barcode does not change for each printed tag; the same barcode is used for all tags. Static barcodes should be included as part of the artwork file and will be treated as art. A separate barcode layer in the artwork file is not required. When using a static barcode, the customer has complete control over the image including barcode format, shape, size, color, fonts and error correction level.

Variable Barcodes

A variable barcode changes for each printed tag; each tag has a different barcode image. The artwork file should include a separate layer for the barcode that is in the desired position, size, color and error correction level. The customer will be notified in the order review process if a change needs to be made.

Custom Barcodes

Barcodes with graphics inside of them or non-standard barcodes generated by proprietary apps (e.g. Snapchat’s Snapcodes, Facebook’s Messenger Codes) are considered to be custom barcodes. GoToTags may not be able to scan, generate or verify custom barcode data. The customer is responsible for providing the correct barcode data after having tested the performance to their specifications. In most cases, GoToTags will not be able to correlate encoding to a custom barcode.

Barcode Formats

GoToTags regularly prints the following barcode formats. If an alternate barcode format is needed, please contact GoToTags.

  • Data Matrix
  • QR Code
  • Code 128
  • Other common 1D barcode formats

It is recommended to use a 2D barcode such as Data Matrix when possible. Code 128 and other 1D barcodes change size based on data and can be difficult to work with; 2D barcodes do not change size and are more efficient at representing data.

Barcode Scanning Best Practices

Each barcode format has certain requirements and guidelines for printing. Before project deployment, the barcode should be tested in the environment where it will be scanned to ensure optimal performance.

The following are the best practices to improve the scan performance of a barcode:

  • Black barcode on a white background for high contrast
  • Large dimension barcode
  • High resolution artwork
  • Enough quiet space
  • High error correction level
  • Standard barcode formats
  • Placed on a smooth surface
  • Positioned so that the scanner can view the barcode straight-on

The following should be avoided if possible:

  • Colored barcodes with low contrast
  • Small barcodes
  • Low resolution artwork
  • Not enough quiet space
  • Custom, not-standard barcode formats
  • Barcodes with overlaid graphics or text
  • Low-light environments