MaxiCode

MaxiCode is a two-dimensional machine-readable code, similar to a barcode, but using dots displayed on a hexagonal grid instead of bars. It was created by UPS (the United Parcel Service, a USA package delivery company) for use in the tracking and sorting of packages.

A MaxiCode symbol appears as a 1 inch square, with a bullseye in the middle, surrounded by a pattern of these hexagonal dots. It can store about 93 characters of information, and up to 8 MaxiCode symbols can be chained together to convey more data. The centered symmetrical bulleseye is useful in locating the symbol regardless of orientation, and it allows MaxiCode symbols to be located even on a package traveling on a rapidly moving belt.

Though the Maxicode symbology was created by UPS in 1992, they have made it public-domain so that anyone can use it for free.

Required fields

All MaxiCode symbols include a Structured Carrier Message containing key information about a package. This information is protected with a strong Reed-Solomon error correction code, allowing it to be read even if a portion of the symbol is damaged. These fields include:

1. A national postal code. MaxiCode support both numeric postal codes (e.g. a ZIP Code), and alphanumeric postal codes.
2. A 3-digit country code incoded per ISO 3166
3. A 3-digit class of service code assigned by the carrier
4. A 20-character tracking number
5. A 2-4 character code indicating the originating carrier

Optional information

Additional information can be encoded in a MaxiCode symbol, but it may less error correction protection:

• Purchase order number
• Customer reference
• Invoice number
• etc...

External links

• http://www.maxicode.com/maxicode/ - Official website