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MaxiCode is a fixed-size 2D barcode made for sorting parcels at speed. Its central bullseye and grid of hexagonal modules let a scanner read it as a package moves past on a conveyor, at any angle.

Decode one

Scan or paste a barcode and see every part of it.

Make one

Generate a valid barcode from fields.

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Where you’ll see it

  • Parcel shipping labels, where it carries the destination postal code, country and service level for automated sorting. It was developed by UPS.

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Anatomy

Every MaxiCode is the same size: about 1 inch square. It holds up to about 93 characters.

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Modes

A MaxiCode starts with a mode that says how its data is laid out: In modes 2 and 3, the first part of the data is a structured carrier message: postal code, country and class of service, which a sorter can read first.

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Error correction

The error correction is set by the mode. Mode 5 has more than the others, at the cost of holding less. See How much error correction should I use?
  • Aztec: also found from its center, with no quiet zone.
  • Data Matrix and PDF417: other 2D barcodes found on shipping labels.

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Scanning it in your app

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Specification

  • ISO/IEC 16023: the MaxiCode barcode specification.