Identcode
Published by the QRinsec Editorial Team — practical documentation about QR codes, barcode standards, and QRinsec’s client-side tools. Content is reviewed against product testing and published technical documentation from sources such as GS1, Denso Wave, and ISO standards where applicable.
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Identcode is a 12-digit tracking barcode used by Deutsche Post and DHL to identify shipments.
Important Notice
Identcode is Deutsche Post proprietary — do not use it outside Deutsche Post's shipping system.
Important Notice
Always print Identcode and Leitcode together on the same label per Deutsche Post label specifications.
Key Facts
- Digits
- 12
- Symbology
- Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF)
- Check Digit
- Modulo 10 (4/9 weighting)
- Used By
- Deutsche Post (Germany only)
- Encodes
- Shipment tracking number
What is an Identcode barcode?
Identcode is a 12-digit numeric barcode used exclusively by Deutsche Post for shipment tracking. While Leitcode encodes the routing destination for sorting machines, Identcode encodes the unique tracking number (Sendungsnummer) that appears on the sender's receipt and allows both Deutsche Post systems and customers to track a parcel's progress. Like Leitcode, Identcode is based on the Interleaved 2 of 5 (ITF) symbology with Deutsche Post's proprietary check digit algorithm.
The 12 digits explained
An Identcode consists of 12 digits:
- Digits 1–2: Client/product code assigned by Deutsche Post (identifies the mailing product — e.g., 18 for Päckchen, 22 for DHL Paket).
- Digits 3–11: Sequential shipment number assigned by the sender's account.
- Digit 12: Modulo 10 check digit.
The Identcode is the barcode representation of the tracking number also shown in the format 'XX XXX XXX XXX X' in human-readable text.
Check digit (Modulo 10, same as Leitcode)
Identcode uses the same Deutsche Post Modulo 10 check digit algorithm as Leitcode:
- Multiply odd-position digits (1,3,5…11) by 4.
- Multiply even-position digits (2,4,6…10) by 9.
- Sum all products.
- Check digit = (10 − (sum mod 10)) mod 10.
This 4/9 weighting is specific to Deutsche Post and differs from standard EAN Modulo 10.
Identcode vs. Leitcode vs. DHL tracking number
Identcode and Leitcode always appear together on the same Deutsche Post parcel label. Identcode = tracking number (for customer and system tracking); Leitcode = routing code (for automated sorting). The DHL international tracking number (used outside Germany) is a different format — typically beginning with a 2-letter service code and ending with 'DE' — and is not encoded as Identcode.
When to use Identcode
Identcode is generated automatically by:
- Deutsche Post's INTERNETMARKE online franking system.
- Deutsche Post Business Customer shipping software and API.
Identcode always appears alongside Leitcode on the same parcel label. Do not use Identcode outside Deutsche Post's shipping ecosystem.
Printing requirements
Same ITF specifications as Leitcode: minimum X-dimension 0.25 mm, wide-to-narrow ratio 2.5:1, quiet zones 10× X-dimension each side. On a Deutsche Post standard label, Identcode and Leitcode are printed in a defined position relative to the address and postage indicia. Use Deutsche Post-approved label templates.
Common scanning failures
Same failure modes as Leitcode: label damage, low-quality thermal print, and incorrect check digit. A failed Identcode scan means the shipment cannot be automatically registered in Deutsche Post's tracking system — it must be manually processed, delaying tracking updates.
Comparison
| Feature | Identcode | Leitcode | Standard ITF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digits | 12 | 14 | Variable (even) |
| Purpose | Shipment tracking number | Routing destination | General numeric |
| Check Digit Weighting | 4/9 (Deutsche Post) | 4/9 (Deutsche Post) | Standard Mod 10 |
| Used By | Deutsche Post only | Deutsche Post only | General industry |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Identcode and Leitcode?
Identcode encodes the unique tracking number (Sendungsnummer) for customer and system tracking. Leitcode encodes the routing destination for automated sorting machines. Both always appear on the same Deutsche Post parcel label.
Can I track a parcel using the Identcode number?
Yes. The 12-digit Identcode number (displayed as 'XX XXX XXX XXX X' on the label) is the tracking number you enter at deutschepost.de or the DHL tracking portal.
Is Identcode used for international DHL shipments?
No. International DHL shipments use a different tracking number format. Identcode is specific to Deutsche Post domestic products within Germany.
Who assigns the Identcode number?
Deutsche Post assigns the client/product code (first 2 digits) when a business account is set up. The remaining digits are generated sequentially by the sender's shipping software or the Deutsche Post INTERNETMARKE system.
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