digital-print-marking
Thermal Transfer Code 128 (GMP Label) (TT Code 128)
Code 128 produced by thermal transfer overprint (TTO) systems on flexible packaging and pressure-sensitive labels for GMP-compliant batch, expiry, and date coding on pharmaceutical and FMCG lines.
Governing Specification: ISO/IEC 15417 / GMP Annex 15 Packaging Verification
Data Format & Required Fields
Code 128 subset B/C encoding printed via wax-resin or full-resin thermal ribbon onto coated label stock at 200–300 dpi. GMP Annex 15 requires print-vision 100% barcode verification of every printed unit.
Allowed Character SetStandard printable ASCII characters (32-126).
Payload Length Rule Between 1 and 80 characters
Check Digit / Checksum Rule Requires a verified modulo-103 check digit to prevent scanner misreads and data transposition errors.
Example Valid Format
BATCH-PRX-2026-LOT-9901Industry Guidance & Practical Applications
- Flexible sachet and pouch overprinting on pharmaceutical packaging lines
- FMCG outer carton lot and date coding on thermal label applicators
- Hospital pharmacy inpatient medication dispensing labels
Packaging & Scanning Notes: Standard output format for most Indian pharmaceutical batch label printers (Zebra, SATO, Honeywell) in WHO-GMP-certified facilities.
Symbol Constraints & Label Guidelines
- Thermal ribbon selection must match substrate and temperature requirement.
- Minimum bar width of 0.25mm required for reliable scanner reading at 30 cm.