MOBILE BARCODE SCANNERS IN WAREHOUSES
Cracking the code Incorporating mobile barcode scanners in warehouses has many advantages for businesses in terms of efficiency and productivity, but these benefits can be lost if the wrong solution is chosen, as Liam Reid, technology and innovation director at The Barcode Warehouse, explains.
There are multiple advantages of incorporating mobile barcode scanners in warehouses. For warehouse customers implementing barcoding technology is important to help remain competitive and future-proof warehouse operations. Even the smallest of warehouses can adopt barcoding technology cost-effectively with a big impact on productivity and scalability. Barcode scanning can offer multiple levels of improvements and efficiencies across the entire warehouse workflow. One obvious advantage is the increase in mobility and flexibility with use, enabling staff to manage inventory at the source. Barcoding can also enable a much more efficient workforce, speeding up many processes. This helps the business become more profitable, increases staff retention and job fulfilment and makes for an improved and quicker service for customers. When it comes to data, processes are much more secure, accurate and reliable, with a significant reduction in human errors. Incorrect data inputting costs businesses huge amounts in losses as well as having an impact on customer experiences. It’s these kinds of elements that give organisations that competitive advantage needed in the industry. Barcode scanning in the warehouse can also create efficiencies across the varied operations that are undertaken in this environment. The elimination of manual and paper-based procedures not only increases productivity but also significantly bolsters data accuracy in critical areas such as stock counts, inventory management and tracking of goods from intake to outgoing shipments. Integration of barcode scanning technology with complementary software and technologies can further elevate quality assurance, ensuring the accurate selection of items for packing and reducing the need for costly return processes.
Crucial factors We work with warehousing customers of all sizes, and when evaluating preferences for mobile scanners it’s crucial to account for a range of ergonomic factors. In the context of a warehouse environment, enhancing the user experience and minimising the potential for errors hinge on two key aspects: the ease of physical device handling and the seamless integration of the right software with the hardware. While device speed undoubtedly plays a role in fostering a superior user experience, the paramount factor lies in user-friendliness. Software solutions not only serve as mobile management tools but also help to streamline and automate essential tasks such as inventory management and enterprise resource planning. They provide added value to workers through features like voice-assisted picking and specialised scanning capabilities. Taking a holistic approach to these considerations collectively fosters a swifter and more efficient workforce, ultimately leading to substantial enhancements in business outcomes. The harmonious integration of software with hardware not only optimises operations but also enhances the overall user experience, ensuring that each device is a powerful tool for success in the warehouse environment. While the performance of mobile scanning technology undoubtedly plays a pivotal role, the importance of selecting the right device for the specific operation cannot be overstated. The market offers a plethora of warehouse scanning solutions, and our recommendation is to trial and test various device forms. Whether its handheld units, devices equipped with trigger handles, or wearable devices, the choice of the device must align seamlessly with the task at hand. The repercussions of selecting the wrong choice of device can lead to lost efficiency gains. Additionally, the nature of what you’ll be scanning within your warehouse environment
Liam Reid technology and innovation director
thebarcodewarehouse. co.uk
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