Why Barcode Scanning is Needed in Supply Chain Operations?

Barcode scanning systems are not new to the world. But new technologies have increased their value to supply chain management. Having the right barcode scanning system can help you streamline your supply chain and use data to improve operational efficiency.

Because in a connected supply chain where physical and digital elements work together, it turns out to be more efficient at adapting to changing conditions and needs. Before diving into the why and how let's understand what a barcode scanning system is.

A barcode scanning system is a combination of hardware and software, where data is collected and processed by the hardware and transmitted to the software.

The hardware is an optical scanner that reads the barcode and decodes the information on it. In other words, it converts the collected light information into electrical signals.

The software helps businesses easily view, interpret and analyze data to make data-driven decisions.

Scanning systems are a must-have in any warehouse environment as they play a vital role in optimizing inventory management, picking, sorting, packing, and shipping processes. Let's learn how.

Warehouse management without a barcode scanning system is a thing of the past. Businesses and end customers alike want the best service at the best price, and you need logistical efficiencies to deliver that.

Manual inventory management cannot meet these customer needs. It is impossible to survive in a fast-paced environment without a system in which data flows accurately and quickly.

Warehouse scanners play a critical role in automating data collection in warehouse operations. They are capable of reading labels at light speed without errors. On average the accuracy of scanners is 1 error for every 70 million pieces of scanned information. 

And connected systems allow you to efficiently allocate resources, get the most out of your tools and increase employee productivity at the same time. Equally important it enables you to adapt to external events that are beyond your control.

So how do they have such a huge impact on efficiency and productivity?

A connected warehouse system can save you from huge costs associated with inefficiencies. But how to do it?

Overstocks and stock-outs cost businesses as much as $1,106 billion annually.

Enterprises must build connected environments to avoid these enormous costs. Barcode scanning in supply chain operations can help you achieve significant cost savings.

A new generation of barcode scanners allows you to enter data on the screen from a distance, which means you can enter inventory changes into your software as they occur.

Once the data is accurately transferred, you can detect which products are out of stock and which ones are slow to sell right from the software's dashboard.

By looking at historical data, you can analyze long-term inventory movements and properly prepare for the next period.

Smart barcode scanners prevent problems before they happen. Humans are prone to error in a fast-paced environment. These mistakes are costly. However, modern barcode scanners can detect errors that can occur at any point during the picking, sorting and packing process.

What's more, they have an instant feedback mechanism to let workers know about mistakes. State-of-the-art scanners provide multiple layers of feedback: optical, acoustic, and tactile. So how do these mechanisms work?

Let's say a picker picks the wrong item on the shelf or picks the wrong number of items. Wearable Barcode Scanner detects these errors with its smart sensors and makes sure they know through sound, vibration, and light!

This proactive approach to warehouse management differs from that offered by traditional scanners. Another contribution of wearable devices is the mobility they provide to users.

Because wearable barcode scanners are hands-free, warehouse workers can move boxes comfortably and quickly. This can increase speed by 50% and help you have a healthy and productive workforce.

First, determine your needs and expectations for an industrial scanner. For example, if you don't want to spend time and money on maintenance, look for a durable barcode scanner. Some industrial scanners can run for 6 months without maintenance or repairs.

Second, look for easy setup and compatibility. You don't want to push your employees too far out of their comfort zone. That's why you need a plug-and-play device that's compatible with the system you're already using.

Third, make sure the device has a long-lasting battery. Choose a device that can scan over 2000 times on a single charge. It doesn't make sense to have to charge a portable device multiple times.

Barcode scanning in your supply chain is essential if you want to meet skyrocketing customer expectations and operate successfully.

It saves time and money and helps you make data-driven decisions. Cost and time savings increase the budget you have available for development, and the data will propel you in the right direction. These are special assets for business expansion.

Determine your barcode scanning system needs and find equipment that meets your needs. If you want to buy a barcode scanner, welcome to contact us.

In Yanzeo, we provide barcode and RFID solutions. Yanzeo has years of professional research and exploration of intelligent technology, bringing together the technical essence of the barcode industry. Through the data interpretation of the changes in the information environment of modern society, we can effectively overcome the difficulties and problems of barcode RFID technology, develop and design industry-leading barcode RFID products, and help customers calmly deal with the challenges brought about by accurate identification and identification. Various identification obstacles to ensure the safety of customers at all times, a good experience.