2D Barcode Writer
How to Generate MaxiCode Barcodes Using Aspose.BarCode for .NET

How to Generate MaxiCode Barcodes Using Aspose.BarCode for .NET

This article demonstrates how to generate MaxiCode barcodes with Aspose.BarCode for .NET in C#. MaxiCode is a machine-readable 2D code used by shipping and logistics companies (like UPS) to automate sorting, tracking, and delivery of packages.

Real-World Problem

Shipping and logistics operations require durable, machine-readable codes that can encode tracking data, addresses, and package information. MaxiCode is optimized for rapid scanning on conveyor belts and bulk handling, but support for it in .NET libraries is rare.

Solution Overview

Aspose.BarCode for .NET provides full MaxiCode generation support, allowing developers to embed tracking info in a robust barcode ready for carrier and warehouse systems.

Prerequisites

Before you start, ensure you have:

  1. Visual Studio 2019 or later
  2. .NET 6.0 or later (or .NET Framework 4.6.2+)
  3. Aspose.BarCode for .NET installed via NuGet
  4. Basic knowledge of C#
PM> Install-Package Aspose.BarCode

Step-by-Step Implementation

Step 1: Install and Import Aspose.BarCode

Install the NuGet package and import the required namespaces:

using Aspose.BarCode.Generation;

Step 2: Create the MaxiCode Barcode Generator

Instantiate the generator for MaxiCode:

BarcodeGenerator generator = new BarcodeGenerator(EncodeTypes.MaxiCode, "TRACK: 1Z9999999999999999\nDEST: NY-USA");

Step 3: Customize MaxiCode Settings

Configure mode, ECC, and visual style as needed:

// Set MaxiCode mode (Modes 2–6; Mode 2 for shipping, Mode 4 for general)
generator.Parameters.Barcode.MaxiCode.MaxiCodeMode = MaxiCodeMode.Mode2;
// Optional: Set module (pixel) size
generator.Parameters.Barcode.XDimension.Pixels = 6;
// Optional: Set foreground and background color
generator.Parameters.Barcode.BarColor = Color.Black;
generator.Parameters.Barcode.BackColor = Color.White;

Step 4: Generate and Save the MaxiCode Barcode

Export the barcode to PNG, JPEG, or any supported format:

generator.Save("maxicode-shipping.png", BarCodeImageFormat.Png);

Step 5: Complete Example 

using Aspose.BarCode.Generation;
using System.Drawing; // Required for Color

class Program
{
    static void Main()
    {
        // Create MaxiCode generator for a shipment
        BarcodeGenerator generator = new BarcodeGenerator(EncodeTypes.MaxiCode, "TRACK: 1Z9999999999999999\nDEST: NY-USA");
        generator.Parameters.Barcode.MaxiCode.MaxiCodeMode = MaxiCodeMode.Mode2;
        generator.Parameters.Barcode.XDimension.Pixels = 6;
        generator.Parameters.Barcode.BarColor = Color.Black;
        generator.Parameters.Barcode.BackColor = Color.White;
        generator.Save("maxicode-shipping.png", BarCodeImageFormat.Png);
        // Test with a carrier or warehouse MaxiCode scanner
    }
}

Use Cases and Applications

  • Carrier/package tracking: UPS, FedEx, DHL shipping labels
  • Warehouse automation: Sorting and routing
  • Bulk delivery: Rapid conveyor belt or bulk read

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: MaxiCode not recognized by scanner? Solution: Ensure correct mode for your carrier, use clear, high-contrast colors, and verify image size matches label requirements.

Challenge 2: Data won’t fit? Solution: Use Mode 4 for general messages, keep tracking codes short, or split data across multiple codes.

Challenge 3: Print or scan issues? Solution: Export at higher XDimension or DPI, and avoid compressing the PNG/JPEG.

Performance Considerations

  • Use correct MaxiCode mode for application (Mode 2 for shipping)
  • Batch generate barcodes for multiple shipments or inventory
  • Use memory streams for high-speed, in-memory export

Best Practices

  1. Match MaxiCode mode to your carrier or logistics platform
  2. Test code output on production printers and with actual scanners
  3. Export to PNG for label print quality
  4. Document code text and mode for compliance

Advanced Scenarios

1. Batch Generate MaxiCode Barcodes 

foreach (var package in packages)
{
    BarcodeGenerator g = new BarcodeGenerator(EncodeTypes.MaxiCode, package.TrackingNumber);
    g.Parameters.Barcode.MaxiCode.MaxiCodeMode = MaxiCodeMode.Mode2;
    g.Save($"maxicode_{package.Id}.png", BarCodeImageFormat.Png);
}

2. Set MaxiCode for General Messaging 

generator.Parameters.Barcode.MaxiCode.MaxiCodeMode = MaxiCodeMode.Mode4;

Conclusion

With Aspose.BarCode for .NET, you can generate MaxiCode barcodes for shipping, tracking, and warehouse workflows. For more details, visit the Aspose.BarCode API Reference .

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