1D vs 2D Barcodes: What Developers Should Weigh for Inventory Systems

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Inventory features often look simple until labels need to carry lot numbers, expiry dates, or serial numbers, which makes barcode type an architectural choice. Linear 1D barcodes such as UPC/EAN and Code 128 are cheap and widely supported, but they hold little data and lack error correction, so they work best as keys that trigger database lookups. 2D symbologies like QR Code, Data Matrix and PDF417 carry much more information and include error correction that tolerates damage, though they require imager-based scanners or cameras. The article suggests choosing 2D for small parts, damaged-prone labels, or cases needing lot or serial data, and notes that many 2D labels follow GS1 Application Identifiers. It also includes a Python parser that validates GTIN check digits and interprets GS1 expiry dates.

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