What is a Barcode Verification Report And Why Do You Need One
A Barcode Verification Report is a test measuring the thickness of each bar to determine if in specification. The measurement is determined by SPACE, BAR, SPACE, BAR representing
A, B, C, D on the printed verification report produced.
If the bars are within tolerance there will be no underline of the number produced. If the bars are out of tolerenance then it will have a underline beneath the number showing out of specification. Depending on the size of the barcode chosen and what type of material it is being printed on makes the printers job either very easy or extremely difficult to be in specification.
By choosing a larger barcode image, expressed as (Magnification) gives the barcode more tolerance and allows for more gain or loss on the press.
Does your current barcode provider bother to ask you what type of material you are printed on to. I bet he doesn't. It is not the case of one size fits all. A larger barcode image will always scan more consistantly and be much easier to scan at the checkout.
It is not always required to print a larger barcode if the material chosen has very little print gain. For example when printing on a barcode label the stock is flat and when printed offset has virtually no print gain. The smallest size barcodes can be chosen and scan very well on these surfaces. Now take the same size barcode and print it on a cardboard box and you will quickly see the barcode lines closing up on each other making it virtually impossible to scan. A larger barcode magnification should be chosen when printing on either cardboard or plastic to allow for the inaccuracy of the print.
Why Does GS1 Produce A Verification Report
Members of GS1 Alliance (Major stores and Supermarkets) want to know you barcodes will scan at the checkout. Entering in the barcode number by hand is much slower causing frustration to both operator and customers waiting in the que. So for every GS1 alliance partner they have a mandatory requirement that the barcode must be verified and your product must come with a written report expressing that it passes all the guidelines.
Why Does My Barcode Not Scan
A good question asked often. Barcodes have scanning difficulties for a number of reasons
A) Barcode too small
B) Wrong Colour chosen
C) Too much gain on the printing press or movement when printed
D) Barcode Software was not a Digital Barcode Master generator causing scanning problems
E) Operator who made the barcode images did not have enough experience
F) Printer did not know how to print the barcode correctly
G) Designer played around with the barcode image to make it fit the design
H) Barcode image was reduced or enlarged