How to Encode Special Characters & FNC1 in Code 128

Published: November 27, 2025

Code 128 isn’t just for text — it includes four special Function Characters (FNC1–FNC4) that enable powerful features like GS1 compliance and message concatenation. This generator supports all of them.

FNC1: The GS1 Magic Character

Insert ~FNC1 or ~202 at the start of your data to create a valid GS1-128 barcode. Example:

~FNC1(01)00012345678909(17)301225 → GTIN + Expiration Date

Common Application Identifiers (AIs)

(01) — Global Trade Item Number
(10) — Batch/Lot Number
(17) — Expiration Date
(21) — Serial Number

FNC2–FNC4: Advanced Features

Use ~FNC2, ~FNC3, or ~FNC4 for:

Message concatenation (scanner buffering)
Structured append
Extended character set switching

Practical Examples

Copy-paste these into the generator:

SSCC-18: ~FNC1(00)123456789012345678
Pharma UDI: ~FNC1(01)01234567890128(17)301225(21)ABC123
Simple text with tilde: Hello~FNC1World

FAQ

How do I type FNC1 in this generator?

Type ~FNC1 or ~202 — both work.

Will regular scanners read FNC1?

Yes — if configured for GS1 mode.

Master FNC1 = Master global supply chain compliance.