GTIN
The product identifier required for retail and supply-chain use cases.
GS1 DataMatrix & Digital Link · UK
GS1 2D barcode
printing systems.
Plan the data, symbol, print process, verification and production-line controls needed for reliable GS1 DataMatrix and Digital Link codes.
GS1 2D readiness
A scannable code
is a complete system.
Short answer: a compliant production-line 2D code requires correct GS1 data and syntax, an appropriate symbol size and quiet zone, a proved printer and ink combination, controlled product movement and an agreed verification method.
TIJ can be a strong print technology for compact, high-resolution variable codes, but the printer alone cannot make a barcode compliant. The final symbol must be assessed on the real packaging at production speed and connected to the correct data workflow.
Read the official GS1 2D implementation guideline ↗
Reviewed by Oxford Traceability · Updated 25 August 2026
GS1Data and symbol standards
2027Retail 2D scanning ambition
VerifyProve the printed result
01Data and symbol design
Begin before the printer
Choose the data
and barcode first.
The use case determines whether the project needs GS1 DataMatrix, Data Matrix or QR Code with GS1 Digital Link syntax.
Define the GTIN and any additional application identifiers, such as batch, expiry date or serial number. Confirm who creates the data, how it reaches the line and how duplicate or incorrect identifiers are prevented.
- GTIN and GS1 Application Identifier structure
- Batch, expiry and serial data requirements
- GS1 element string or Digital Link URI syntax
- Static, batch-variable or item-level serialised data
2027 is a capability ambition
The initial industry goal is for retail POS systems to process appropriate 2D barcodes by the end of 2027; it does not mean every linear barcode immediately disappears.
02Print quality and verification
Design for first-time scans
Prove the symbol
at production speed.
Module size, contrast, quiet zones and edge definition all influence whether a code can be decoded reliably.
The assessment should use the finished pack, real data density, worst-case line speed and representative handling. Verification is different from simply reading a code and should be selected around the required standard and risk.
- Correct X-dimension, quiet zone and symbol placement
- Ink contrast and adhesion on the finished material
- Product-to-printhead distance and movement control
- Code reading, content comparison and formal verification
Quality is application-specific
A code that scans from a screen or laboratory print is not proof that the production mark will meet the required standard.
Data carried in 2D
More information.
One compact symbol.
The chosen identifiers and syntax should serve a defined business use case rather than simply filling the available code capacity.
Batch or lot
Variable production data that supports traceability and targeted actions.
Expiry date
Machine-readable durability information where the application requires it.
Serial number
A unique identifier for item-level traceability and authentication.
Digital Link
A web-enabled GS1 URI connecting product identity to controlled online information.
Verification
Measurement and reporting against the agreed symbol-quality requirement.
Application checklist
Questions to answer
before a line trial.
Treat data, artwork, print and scanning as one end-to-end project.
Business use caseRetail POS, traceability, recall, inventory, authentication or consumer information
GS1 identifierGTIN and required Application Identifiers, syntax and data ownership
Symbol choiceGS1 DataMatrix, Data Matrix or QR Code with the permitted syntax
Print geometryX-dimension, quiet zones, placement, orientation and human-readable text
Production processSubstrate, ink, speed, movement, print gap and downstream handling
Quality controlReader checks, content comparison, grading, verification records and reject action
Frequently asked
Direct answers
for production teams.
For application-specific advice, call 01865 362785.
What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?+
GS1 describes an industry ambition for retail point-of-sale systems to be capable of reading and processing defined GS1-compliant 2D barcodes by the end of 2027, alongside existing linear barcodes during the transition.
Which 2D barcode should we print?+
It depends on the use case, data and trading-partner requirements. Options can include GS1 DataMatrix and QR Code or Data Matrix using GS1 Digital Link URI syntax. Confirm the choice against current GS1 specifications.
Can a thermal inkjet printer produce GS1 DataMatrix?+
TIJ can produce high-resolution GS1 DataMatrix symbols when the controller supports the data and symbology, and when print size, ink, substrate, speed and product control deliver the required quality.
Does scanning a code prove it is compliant?+
No. A successful read confirms decode at that moment. Formal barcode verification measures defined quality parameters against the relevant standard and application specification.
Can we remove the existing EAN or UPC barcode now?+
Not automatically. GS1 guidance describes a transition period and the decision depends on market readiness, trading partners, the selected 2D symbol and current GS1 requirements.