PIATS

PIATS (Product Identification, Authentication and Tracking System) is a barcoding system, mainly used in China.

PIATS barcode printing requirements

* A unique variable barcode printed or applied onto each primary/secondary package.
* Barcode type: UCC/EAN 128 (Multi) of 20 numbers, AI (Application Identifier)=21
* Density: >=7 mils, 10 mils is recommended.
* Code length=28 mm under 7 mils
* Code length=42.5 mm under 10 mils
* Bar height: >=8 mm
* Grade: >C (1.5)
* Quiet zone: >=1.5 mm for each zone

Note:
# The AI value is not shown in the human readable data.
# The human readable number is split into 4 groups as above to make it easier for human reading.

Types of commodities listed in PIATS legislation

*Household appliances
*Floor
*Cable and wire
*Fertilizer
*Gas oven
*Personal protective equipment
*Electric heating under blanket
*Food (including beverage, dairy)
*Cosmetics

Each category includes more than one sub-category, totally 69 types of commodities.

Where to print or apply PIATS barcode?
a)Compulsory on primary packaging of the above 9 categories, or can be compromised onto secondary packaging if technology is limited. The latter is applicable only to dairy, beverage and cosmetics sectors at the moment.
b) Compulsory on secondary packaging without compromise
c) Option on tertiary packaging if commodity producer is willing to print or apply.

How to code PIATS barcode onto packaging?
a) Directly printing barcode on packaging in line with production facilities
b) Pre-print PIATS label and then apply it on packaging

External links

* [http://www.95001111.com PIATS website (Chinese only)]