JetDielineCodes
Create QR codes and GS1 barcodes directly on the pack
Guides / JETDIELINE
Barcode on the packaging: size, quiet zone and placement
A barcode must scan at the checkout on the first attempt. Size, quiet zone, contrast and a spot where the code stays flat and undamaged all matter.
Size: do not reduce arbitrarily
A barcode consists of bars and spaces with fixed width ratios. The width of the narrowest element is called the module width or X-dimension. It determines the overall size of the code. The GS1 General Specifications define for each application the range in which it may fall, for example for the point-of-sale area. Which size can be printed reliably also depends on the printing process. Coarse processes such as flexo printing on corrugated board need larger codes. Always scale a code proportionally and do not shorten the bar height without confirming it first.
Quiet zone: the free margin
The quiet zone is the free, light area around the code. The scanner uses it to recognize where the code begins and ends. For linear barcodes such as EAN-13 it lies left and right; for 2D codes such as QR and DataMatrix it surrounds the code. Its minimum width is set for each code type and given in modules. Nothing may be placed in the quiet zone: no text, no frame, no pattern and no edge. A code close to a cut edge or crease loses its quiet zone with even a small shift.
Contrast and colour
Many scanners work with red light. Dark bars on a light background are read best. Red, orange or very light bars look to the scanner like the background and are barely readable. A dark or heavily patterned background also reduces contrast. Metallic areas, hot foil and glossy varnish can reflect light. On uncoated board and corrugated board, the ink spreads and the bars become thicker. Therefore set up the code as a vector in a single dark colour.
Placement on the packaging
Place the code on a flat area that is easy to find at the checkout. It must not run across a crease, an edge, a perforation or a glue seam. Keep a distance from tuck flaps and closures that could cover or bend the code. On curved surfaces, the orientation of the bars can decide readability. In flexo printing, the printer often specifies the orientation relative to the print direction. In series, each size gets its own code, and the available area changes with the dimension.
Generating and checking
JetDieline generates EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, GS1-128, GS1 DataMatrix, GS1 QR and QR codes as vector graphics and calculates the check digit. You get the number from your GS1 organization. The check warns when a code is too small, violates the quiet zone or lies over a crease. Print process, material and colour still affect readability. Test the code on the press proof with a scanner. If your trading partner requires proof of verification, clarify this with the printer early.
Step by step
- Obtain the product number from your GS1 organization.
- Choose code type and size according to application and printing process.
- Place the code on a flat area with a distance from edges and creases.
- Keep the quiet zone clear and use dark bars on a light background.
- Test the press proof with a scanner.
Frequently asked questions
How large must an EAN code be at minimum?
The permissible size is in the GS1 General Specifications and depends on the application. The printing process may require a larger version. Check the current version and ask your printer.
May a barcode be coloured?
Yes, as long as the contrast is sufficient for the scanner. Dark bars on a light background usually work, for example in black or dark blue. Red bars are not suitable.
Related features
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Series and variants
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Related terms
Related guides
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Inside, outside, crease
Three dimensions describe the same carton and still produce different numbers.
Bleed and safety margin
Printing and die-cutting have tolerances.
Preparing print files
Packaging needs two kinds of data: the printed image and the die-cut contour.
Grain and flute direction
Board and corrugated board do not behave the same in every direction.
Your product. Your dimensions. Your design.
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