[Graham Beesley]

We do not intend to use bar codes for about 12mths for stocktakes etc but wish to ensure we are using the best system now to avoid having to reprint price labels again later. I have read your info re Bar code symbologies but am not certain which one is best to select.

There does not appear to be an industry standard (yet) and we mainly use numbers but may need to use alpha as well in the future. We do not even have a scanner yet but looking fwd do not want to print the wrong system.

Price labels are approx 62mm X 90mm printed in landscape and possible most systems could fit on tags. Not sure if we would ever use bar code on orders etc but if we can keep options wide as possible would be good.

[COBS Tech Support]

The most common format is Code 39, which can handle letters of the alphabet, numbers and some punctuation such as dash (-).

You want to produce the smallest barcode possible while at the same time having as much flexibility as possible in terms of what can be encoded in a barcode. However, the more flexible the barcode, the larger it will be, hence you usually have to come up with a compromise.

If you will be handling barcodes from your suppliers you may not really have a choice. If you will be printing all your own barcodes then we would recommend you barcode the Stock ID, rather than the product code. The Stock ID is a unique 7 digit number assigned to every stock item automatically, in your stock file. You can use Code 39 for maximum generic compatibility and at the same time still produce a relatively small barcode this way.