Metal can

Graphics Portal – Barcodes & DRS


To ensure that the barcode is functional, each bar code is generated using the customer-supplied numeric code.

Since the barcodes are generated in the prepress section, a placeholder barcode should be correctly sized in the artwork.

The barcode must be positioned at least 3 mm from the neckline.

The important thing to remember when selecting colours for a barcode label is the contrast – that’s why the combination of a white background and black barcode is the most recommended colour combination.

Some other combinations are acceptable but must be discussed with your local Graphics Team as readability may be adversely affected.

Scanners read barcodes best when the background reflects light and the bars don’t reflect any.

  • Barcode bars must be horizontal for our printing process.
  • Barcodes for our cans require a bar width reduction of 0.08 mm in the print files.
  • Barcodes for our cans require a bar width reduction of 0.08 mm in the print files.
  • Ardagh Metal Packaging can guarantee a 1.5 GS1 reading and above on all barcodes.
  • The position of the barcode should start no closer than 3 mm to the base of the format.
  • It is possible to truncate the height of the EAN barcode length of bars to 13 mm.

Information iconPlease note it is solely the responsibility of the customer to ensure artwork follows the guidelines of these schemes.

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