Introduction
Self-service shipping paperwork supports barcoded data elements using both calculated barcodes and font-based barcodes. Calculated barcodes are provided for specific, frequently used data elements on many templates and use the Code128B symbology. Font-based barcodes are supported using Code 39 (also called 3of9) symbology and can be applied to many data elements.
Example barcodes:
ProNum = The barcoded pronum field on many bills of lading templates uses the font-based Code 39 barcode symbology.
SSCC = The Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC) barcode on many GS1 label templates uses the calculated Code 128B barcode symbology.
Barcode Symbology
Symbology is the standardized method used to encode data into a barcode format, defining the patterns of bars, spaces, and characters that scanners use to interpret the encoded information. Different symbologies (such as Code 128 or Code 39) determine how data is structured, stored, and validated within the barcode.
Code 128B Barcode Symbology
Code 128B is a high-density linear barcode format from the Code 128 family that encodes upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and many standard keyboard symbols (ASCII 32–127). It is commonly used in logistics, shipping, and inventory systems because it can store more data in a smaller space than older barcode types. Code 128 includes built-in error checking (checksum) and uses start/stop characters to indicate the data type being encoded. The B subset specifically supports mixed-case alphanumeric characters and punctuation.
Code 39 Barcode Symbology (Also Called 3of9 Barcodes)
Code 39, also called 3 of 9, is a linear barcode that encodes uppercase letters (A–Z), numbers (0–9), and a limited set of symbols. The name “3 of 9” comes from its encoding method: each character is represented by 9 bars/spaces, with exactly 3 wide elements and 6 narrow ones. It is one of the earliest widely used barcode formats and is known for its simplicity and reliability, though it stores less data and requires more space than newer formats like Code 128. It is still used in manufacturing, defense, and asset tracking systems.
Using Code 39 Font-Based Barcodes
The Code 39 barcode symbology can be applied to many data elements on templates by simply selecting the Barcode font for a data element.
Note that Code 39 font-based barcodes MUST include the required start/stop asterisk character "*" or they will not be scannable. The barcode output will not show the start/stop character, but it will be visible to scanners.
To see an example use of the start/stop character with a font-based barcode, view the Bill of Lading with Packages & Products template shown below. Notice the highlighted Pro Bill field including the asterisk characters before and after the selected field. It's important to highlight the start/stop and data field value when selecting "Barcode" from the font-type drop-down box.
Viewing a Sample Barcoded Value
Click the Preview button on the Bill Of Lading template with a sample transaction to view a sample barcoded value as shown below.
Using Code 128B Calculated Barcodes
The Code 128B calculated barcode symbology works slightly differently than font-based barcodes by reading data values and encoding the data programmatically. Because values are encoded programmatically, Pacejet provides a preset collection of commonly barcoded values which can be added to templates. To use a calculated barcode field simply add the field to a template.
To see an example use of a calculated barcode, view the GS1 Label - Carton Handling Unit template shown below. Notice that calculated barcodes do not need to include a start/stop character to delimit data values for the barcode.
View a Sample Barcoded Value
Click the Preview button on the GS1 label template with a sample transaction to view a sample barcoded value as shown below.