Barcode image Validation Service

 

What is image validation?

Our image validation service checks your bar code images are likely to print properly. We send you a report outlining any changes you need to make.


What we check

The image that you submit for testing will be checked using a bar code verifier that meets the latest international standards – ISO/IEC 15426. GS1 UK will validate the image using a process based on the ISO/IEC 15416 verification method.

 

The report you will receive from us will indicate the likely compliance of your bar code when it is printed onto your product packaging.

 

If it is necessary we will suggest where you may need to make changes to meet GS1 and industry specifications and include a guide to the terms we use.

 
When we validate your images, we check that:

 

  • The GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is in the correct format with the correct use of the company prefix and a valid check digit.
  • The light margins around the bar code symbol are large enough.
  • Colours are used appropriately.
  • The bar code is within the right range of sizes and proportions (the final size will depend on print quality tests).
  • The bar code is positioned correctly on your product.

 

Image validation availability

We can currently validate these GS1 bar codes and labels:

 

  • EAN-13 or EAN-8 bar codes on consumer units (for on demand printing)
  • EAN-13, GS1-128 or ITF-14 bar codes on traded (outer-case) units
  • GS1 logistics label for pallets and other transport items

It is important to understand that full verification of bar codes can only be carried out on final product samples as bar code quality depends on the printing process and packaging material. It is recommended that a full verification service is used to check actual bar codes as they are printed on final product samples.