What is ITF-14 Barcode?
ITF-14 (Interleaved Two of Five 14) is a 14-digit barcode standard used for shipping container identification and trade items. It's based on the Interleaved 2 of 5 symbology and is part of the GS1 system. ITF-14 barcodes are printed on corrugated shipping cartons and outer packaging, enabling efficient warehouse and distribution center operations. The barcode encodes a GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) for case-level product identification.
Why Use ITF-14 Barcodes?
Shipping Standard
ITF-14 is the GS1 standard for shipping container identification, required by many retailers and distributors.
Warehouse Efficiency
Enables fast scanning of shipping cartons in warehouses and distribution centers, improving logistics operations.
Supply Chain
Essential for supply chain management, allowing tracking of cases and pallets through distribution networks.
Damage Resistant
ITF-14 barcodes are designed to be readable even when printed on corrugated cardboard that may be damaged during shipping.
How to Use ITF-14 Barcodes
- Get GTIN-14: Obtain a GTIN-14 number from GS1. This is a 14-digit number that identifies your shipping container or case.
- Enter 14 Digits: Input your 14-digit GTIN-14 number. The barcode will encode this number for case-level identification.
- Print on Cartons: Print ITF-14 barcodes on shipping cartons and outer packaging. Ensure proper sizing and contrast for warehouse scanning.
- Verify Scanning: Test with warehouse scanners to ensure the barcode reads correctly at various distances and angles.
Frequently Asked Questions
GTIN-14 (Global Trade Item Number) is a 14-digit number that identifies shipping containers or cases. You obtain GTIN-14s from GS1 by registering your products. Each case or shipping container needs its own GTIN-14.
ITF-14 is for shipping containers (cases, cartons), while EAN-13/UPC-A are for individual retail products. ITF-14 uses Interleaved 2 of 5 symbology and is designed for corrugated cardboard, while EAN-13/UPC-A are for product labels.
Yes! ITF-14 is specifically designed for printing on corrugated shipping cartons. It uses a robust symbology (Interleaved 2 of 5) that remains scannable even when the cardboard is damaged or dirty.
ITF-14 barcodes should be printed at least 2.5" wide and 1.25" tall for optimal scanning. They can be printed larger for better readability at distance. Print at 300+ DPI for best results.
Many retailers and distributors require ITF-14 barcodes on shipping cartons for efficient warehouse operations. Check with your trading partners for specific requirements. ITF-14 is especially important for large-scale distribution.
Yes! ITF-14 barcodes are designed for long-range scanning in warehouses. When printed at proper size, they can be scanned from several feet away using warehouse scanners or forklift-mounted scanners.
ITF-14 encodes a 14-digit GTIN-14 number that identifies the shipping container or case. It doesn't encode price, quantity, or other details - just the container identification number for tracking and inventory management.
No, ITF-14 is specifically for shipping containers and cases, not individual retail products. Use EAN-13 or UPC-A for individual product identification.
Yes, ITF-14 barcodes require quiet zones (blank spaces) before and after the barcode. The quiet zone should be at least 10 times the narrow bar width or 0.125 inches, whichever is larger.
Yes! If you're logged in, you can edit saved ITF-14 barcodes and update the GTIN-14 number, colors, size, or other settings. The barcode will be regenerated with the new information.
