What is ITF-14?
ITF-14 is a 14-digit barcode used for cartons and outer shipping cases that contain retail units. It is the packaging-level barcode in the GS1 system and is printed with thick bars on cardboard, which the ITF (Interleaved 2 of 5) symbology handles well.
Common Uses for ITF-14
- Carton and case-level shipping labels
- Wholesale and distribution packaging
- GS1 logistics label (SSCC companion)
- Warehouse receiving and put-away
ITF-14 vs EAN-13
EAN-13 is used on individual retail units (the product you scan at the register). ITF-14 is the case-level barcode printed on the outer carton that contains multiple retail units. A carton's ITF-14 is built from the GTIN of the product inside plus a packaging indicator. Both belong to the GS1 system, so an ITF-14 carton and its inner EAN-13 units are linked in the supply chain.
Barcode Bearer Bar for ITF-14
The GS1 specification requires a heavy border (bearer bar) around ITF-14 barcodes printed directly on corrugated cardboard. The bearer bar protects the code from damage at the edges of the carton and helps scanners read it through uneven surfaces. When printing ITF-14 on cases, always include the surrounding bearer bar.