Glossary Term
ITF-14 (Case Code)
A barcode used on master cartons to identify the products inside and the quantity in the case.
Handling Bulk Shipments
ITF-14 barcodes are made specifically for large boxes, also known as master cartons. If you are sending a box that contains 24 identical units, you don't scan the individual units at the receiving dock; you scan the ITF-14 on the outside. It instantly tells the system what the item is and how many are inside.
Built for Rugged Environments
Unlike the small codes on a candy bar, ITF-14 codes are large and have thick black borders called 'Bearer Bars.' These bars protect the barcode from damage and ensure that if the print is a bit blurry on a rough cardboard surface, it will still scan correctly every time.
- Encodes a 14-digit GTIN.
- Designed for printing directly on corrugated cardboard.
- Bearer bars help prevent incomplete scans.
Amazon and Walmart Requirements
Both Amazon and Walmart use these codes to speed up their intake process. If your master carton has a proper ITF-14, the warehouse can check in your entire shipment much faster. If it’s missing, they might have to open every box, which leads to delays and sometimes extra 'manual handling' fees.
Technical Alignment
When printing these, alignment is key. The barcode needs to be placed on a flat surface of the box, away from any seams or tape. Because they are 1D barcodes, they can be read by older laser scanners, making them very reliable for almost any warehouse in the world.