GS1-128 Labels Simplified: Generate Shipping Labels Without IT
Table of Contents
- What Are GS1-128 (UCC-128) Labels?
- Why Label Compliance Matters for Retail and Distribution
- The Old Way vs The Fast Way to Print GS1-128 Labels
- How ActionEDI Automates GS1-128 Label Generation
- Real-World Example: From Manual Labeling to One-Click Printing
- FAQ
- Next Steps: Book Your ActionEDI Demo
What Are GS1-128 (UCC-128) Labels?
GS1-128 labels—also known as UCC-128 labels—are standardized shipping labels that include barcodes, SSCCs, and product details. They’re required by major retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and Target to ensure accuracy and efficiency across supply chains.
These labels typically include:
- SSCC (Serial Shipping Container Code)
- PO number and destination
- Carrier and tracking information
- Barcode readable by scanners
Why Label Compliance Matters for Retail and Distribution
Incorrect or manually created shipping labels can lead to:
- 🚫 Shipment rejections
- 💸 Chargebacks or retailer penalties
- 📦 Warehouse misrouting
- ⏱️ Missed fulfillment deadlines
Small and mid-sized businesses are especially vulnerable when relying on spreadsheets or legacy software—and waiting on IT for every change adds delays.
The Old Way vs The Fast Way to Print GS1-128 Labels
| Process | Traditional Approach | With ActionEDI |
|---|---|---|
| Data Entry | Manual | Auto-filled from ERP or email |
| IT Involvement | Often required | None needed |
| Output Format | Custom templates | GS1-compliant ZPL |
| Compliance | High error risk | 100% GS1-compliant |
| Speed | 10–30 minutes per label | Less than 1 minute |
How ActionEDI Automates GS1-128 Label Generation
ActionEDI is a cloud-based EDI software that allows SMEs to create and print GS1-128 shipping labels instantly—without IT support.
Features include:
- 🧠 Syncs with QuickBooks, Sage, NetSuite, and other ERPs
- 🔁 Auto-populates all GS1 fields: PO, ship-to, quantity, SSCC
- 🖨️ Exports ZPL files for use with thermal printers
- ✅ Meets label specs for Amazon, Walmart, Target, and more
Real-World Example: From Manual Labeling to One-Click Printing
A mid-sized home goods supplier previously used Excel and email to generate GS1-128 labels. Each label required manual entry and took 15 minutes to complete.
After switching to ActionEDI, the same company now prints labels in seconds—fully compliant, auto-filled, and printer-ready—with no IT intervention.
FAQ
Do I need to know how to code or set up templates?
No coding or tech skills required. ActionEDI handles the formatting, ZPL generation, and label logic for you.
What types of printers does ActionEDI support?
We support thermal printers (like Zebra) using ZPL file output for GS1-128 labels.
Can I use this for multiple trading partners?
Yes! Our software supports GS1-128 label formats for a wide range of retailers, distributors, and logistics companies.
Will it work with my ERP?
Yes—ActionEDI integrates with QuickBooks, Sage, NetSuite, and more. It can also pull data from email POs.
Next Steps: Book Your ActionEDI Demo
Stop wasting time formatting labels manually or chasing down your IT team.
With ActionEDI, you can:
- ✅ Print GS1-128 labels with one click
- ✅ Stay compliant with Amazon, Walmart, and Target
- ✅ Eliminate label errors and chargebacks
- ✅ Scale shipments without growing your tech team
EDI made simple.
👉 Book your free demo today and see GS1-128 labeling automation in action.
