Barcode scanners use infrared light to scan barcodes, which means some color combinations may be visible to the human eye but not detectable by scanners. It’s essential to carefully consider color choices during the design phase to ensure the barcode scans correctly at the point of sale (POS).
General guidelines for barcode colors:
- The vertical bars should be darker than the background color.
- Scanners cannot detect the vertical bars if warm colors like orange, red, and yellow are used. However, these colors may work for the background in moderation.
- Colors such as blue, black, green, and brown are easily detected by scanners and are ideal for the vertical bars.
- Reflective surfaces are unsuitable for barcodes as they cause light to reflect back at the scanner, interfering with the scan.
- The quiet zones on either side of the barcode’s vertical bars are crucial. It is strongly recommended not to reduce or alter these areas.
The most optimal and widely accepted color combination is black bars on a white background. Below are examples of other acceptable and unacceptable color combinations. If you’re unsure about your choices, feel free to email us at contact@barcodesavers.ca for guidance.
Note: Some smartphone apps may successfully scan barcodes with colors that are otherwise unacceptable to retail scanners. This is because smartphone apps typically use a camera, not infrared light, to scan. A retail scanner, however, will not be able to successfully read such barcodes.
These combinations will scan – OK!
These combination will NOT scan.
If you need any help or are unsure of a combination please email us and we can assist you.