Generate GS1128 Barcodes

Implement seamlessly across Crystal Reports, MS Excel, and MS Access

Barcodesoft GS1 128 Barcode Generator

GS1-128 is a specialized Code 128 variant optimized for supply chain logistics rather than retail point-of-sale. Its structure mandates an FNC1 character immediately after the start code, followed by Application Identifiers (AIs) that define the meaning of subsequent data. The symbology enforces strict physical dimensions—maximum 48 characters, 165 mm length, and 32 mm height—with human-readable text placed below and control characters hidden. By embedding AIs, GS1-128 enables flexible, standardized data exchange across global trading partners, building on the UCC and EAN systems established in the 1970s. However, its primary purpose remains structured element string representation, not conventional scanning, making it a vital tool for inventory, tracing, and logistics applications.

Overview

code 128 barcode GS1128 UCC/EAN-128 ISO/IEC 15417:2007

GS1-128, formerly known as UCC/EAN-128 Symbology, is a variant of the Code 128 Symbology.

The UCC EAN System was established by Uniform Code Council (UCC) in 1973. In 1977, the European Article Numbering Association (EAN International) designed a compatible system for use in Europe.

The pattern of using FNC1 right after the start character is reserved exclusively for GS1128.

Symbology Characteristics

Space is excluded from encodable charset.
Maximum 48 data characters can be encoded.
Maximum physical length is 165 mm (6.5 inches), including quiet zones.
Minimum symbol height is 32 mm (1.25 inches).
Human Readable Text must be placed below the symbol (Start, stop, FNC1, and check digit characters are hidden).
Application Identifiers (AIs) explicitly define data interpretation.

GS1-128 Structure Sequence

Code-128 Start character (A, B, or C)
FNC1
Application Identifier (AI)
Encodable Data
Check Digit
Stop Character

GS1-128 (UCC/EAN-128) is highly flexible and primarily engineered for representing Element Strings using the EAN-UCC System Application Identifiers. It is not designed for traditional point-of-sale retail scanning.

View Complete GS1128 Application Identifiers (AI) Reference List →

Barcodesoft GS1128 Barcode Fonts Pricing

License Type	Single	5-User	10-User	Site	Corporate	Dev	5-Dev	10-Dev	Unlimited
Price	CAD299	CAD399	CAD599	CAD799	CAD999	CAD1199	CAD1399	CAD1999	CAD2999

Generate GS1 128 Barcode in Crystal Reports

Since GS1-128 is designed on top of Code 128, it uses the Code 128 barcode font typeface family.

How to generate a GS1 128 barcode in Crystal Reports?

To generate a GS1 128 barcode in Crystal Reports, create a new formula field using the BCSLinearGS1128 function from the Barcodesoft UFL library. Pass your database fields as arguments, place the formula field on your design canvas, and apply the Code128M font family.

Step 1: Determine SAP Crystal Reports Bitness and Register DLL

Determine the bitness of your SAP Crystal Reports version. SAP Crystal Reports 2008 through 2016 are 32-bit, while SAP Crystal Reports 2020 and 2025 are 64-bit.

For 64-bit Crystal Reports (2020 / 2025):

Run Command Prompt as Administrator and execute:
cd "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Barcodesoft\FontUtil" %systemroot%\System32\regsvr32.exe cruflbcs_x64.dll

For 32-bit Crystal Reports (2008–2016):

Run Command Prompt as Administrator and execute:
cd "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Barcodesoft\FontUtil" regsvr32.exe cruflbcs.dll
Step 2: Create a New Formula Field

Open your Crystal Report layout. Right-click Formula Fields in the Field Explorer and choose "New..." from the context menu. Set the formula name to "GS1128", then click "Use Editor".
Step 3: Locate the Barcodesoft GS1 128 UFL Function

In the Formula Workshop, navigate through the function hierarchy tree: Functions List ⇒ Additional Functions ⇒ COM and .NET UFLs (u212com.dll) ⇒ Visual Basic UFLs. Double-click the BCSLinearGS1128 function.
Step 4: Input Database Fields and Format AIs

Provide your database field as the primary parameter inside your BCSLinearGS1128 formula statement and click "Save". The dynamic link library (cruflbcs.dll) automatically processes and generates FNC1 control characters during calculation.

💡
Encoding Multiple Application Identifiers (AIs): Wrap each individual Application Identifier (AI) inside standard parentheses. For example, to chain AI (02) with AI (10), format your string data as: (02)12345678901234(10)12345678901234567890
The parser handles the start FNC1 as "[C1" and maps subsequent separators to ASCII 29 (GS).
Step 5: Position the Formula Field on Your Design Canvas

Drag and drop your newly defined GS1128 formula field onto your design layout canvas. The raw calculated text strings will display on-screen initially before the font is mapped.
Step 6: Map the Code 128 Font Typeface

Right-click the formula block on your report, click "Format Field", and pick code128m (or code128mHr) in the Font properties tab. Click OK to finish.
Step 7: Verify Code 128 Barcode Generation

Click the OK button to apply changes. The text string placeholders will immediately transform and render as an active, readable GS1 128 barcode inside your report template preview layout.