GS1 DataBar Barcode Scanning via barKoder barcode API

GS1 DataBar Barcode Scanning

GS1 DataBar is a compact, high-density barcode format designed for encoding GTINs and variable data in space-limited applications. barKoder’s SDK offers full support for all GS1 DataBar variants with fast decoding and a built-in GS1 parser to extract structured data with ease.

What is GS1 DataBar?

GS1 DataBar (formerly known as Reduced Space Symbology or RSS) is a modern barcode standard developed by GS1. It is optimized to encode Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) and, when used with a 2D composite component, it can also carry expiration dates, batch/lot numbers, serial numbers, and other Application Identifier (AI) data.

Thanks to its reduced size and enhanced data capacity, GS1 DataBar is ideal for small products, loose produce, unit-dose pharmaceuticals, and serialized logistics items.

Key Features

Compact design: Fits on small or irregular packaging
Extended data encoding:Supports GS1 AIs like expiration dates and lot numbers
Supports omnidirectional scanning: Certain variants scan easily at retail POS
Multiple variants available: Tailored for height, width, and data requirements
Composite symbol compatibility: Integrates with 2D symbols like GS1 Composite Components

Dedicated GS1 Parser

barKoder includes a dedicated GS1 parser that automatically detects and interprets Application Identifiers (AIs) embedded in scanned barcodes. This allows you to easily extract structured data like:

(01) GTIN
(17) Expiration date
(10) Batch/lot number
(21) Serial number
And many more…

This makes the barKoder SDK especially valuable for industries requiring traceability, inventory management, and compliance reporting.

Learn more about the GS1 Parser →

GS1 DataBar Variants Supported

DataBar Omnidirectional Full 360° scanning at point-of-sale terminals.
DataBar Truncated Reduced height for space-constrained packaging.
DataBar Stacked Two-row stacked format for narrow items.
DataBar Stacked Omnidirectional Combines stacking and omnidirectional scanning for compact POS layouts.
DataBar Limited For very small items like cosmetics or medical devices.
DataBar Expanded Encodes multiple AI elements such as weight, date, and serial numbers.
DataBar Expanded Stacked Multi-row version of Expanded, suitable for narrow packaging.

Common Use Cases

Retail Loose produce, coupons, small-packaged goods
Healthcare Medications, surgical instruments, traceable unit packaging
Logistics Serialized shipments, batch tracking, expiration-sensitive goods
Food Services Perishables, small-label inventory, regulated fresh products

Why Choose barKoder for GS1 DataBar?

High-speed and accurate decoding for all GS1 DataBar formats
Real-time scanning support even under difficult conditions (curved surfaces, glare, etc.)
Cross-platform SDK support including iOS, Android, MAUI, Flutter, React Native, Cordova, and more

Get Started with GS1 DataBar Scanning

Ready to power your app with GS1 DataBar barcode scanning? barKoder’s SDK offers rapid integration, industry-leading performance, and a reliable data parsing engine to handle GS1-compliant barcodes with precision.

Get Started Now →