Not all CIJ inks print barcodes equally. This guide helps ensure your codes are scannable and compliant.
Why this matters
Unreadable barcodes = rejected products, chargebacks, or manual rework.
Ink factors that impact barcode quality
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Colour contrast | Black on white = best. Avoid dark-on-dark. |
| Drying time | Smudged codes won’t scan |
| Line speed | Can stretch or compress bars |
| Printhead angle | Affects bar sharpness |
| Dot gain (bleeding) | Makes narrow bars unreadable |
Best practices
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Use high-contrast black MEK or light pigment ink
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Reduce print speed slightly for complex codes
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Test barcodes with a verifier before full run
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Avoid curved or textured surfaces if possible