Inventory management with RFID or barcode labels? Choose the right label printer!

Every logistics company deals with the same questions: how can I make my inventory management as efficient as possible? Is it best to use barcodes or RFID tags? And which label printer do I use to print those barcodes or RFID labels? Your choice depends on the set-up of your company, the nature of your goods and many other factors. We have listed the most important aspects that affect the speed and ease of use of your inventory management.

RFID LABELS VS BARCODES: WHICH INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SUITS YOUR COMPANY?

Which product identification system best fits your logistics company, warehouse or storeroom? Both an RFID tag and a barcode each has its pros and cons when it comes to quickly scanning large quantities of products.

RFID stands for Radio Frequency IDentification. Just like barcodes, they require a reader to work. The difference with a barcode reader is that your RFID reader does not need to ‘see’ the labels.

Let us say that some boxes are in the way between you and the product you want to scan. This is no issue for RFID, because the radio signal of your reader still reaches the RFID tag. The tag returns a signal with information. Since you do not have to pick up and scan each product individually, RFID allows you to scan large quantities simultaneously. RFID labels are also more robust than barcodes. A scratch or crease does not affect the functioning of your label.

Does RFID only have benefits? Absolutely not. Scanning from a distance also leads to a higher chance of your RFID reader picking up the wrong signal (cross-read).

And not all environments are suited for RFID systems. The radio signal sent to your RFID label can be obstructed by water and metals. A barcode scanner is usually a better fit for those types of environments.

CHOOSING THE LABEL PRINTER FOR YOUR LOGISTIC NEEDS

Whether you need a printer for RFID or barcode prints, when we are talking reliable label printers, we are talking Zebra printers.

Do you need a robust label printer that is ready for heavy duty work?

Then Zebra offers a large range of industrial label printers that are dust and splash resistant. In addition, Zebra printers have a large load capacity that allows you to quickly print enormous amounts of labels. Do you need labels for products that are often exposed to all weathers? The industrial label printers from Zebra let you use durable glues that keep your labels neatly in place under all circumstances.

Are you in an office environment? Then a desktop printer might be a better fit for you. These label printers are just as reliable as the industrial printers, but are smaller, more mobile and require less of a budget.

Need to print on location? Would you like to outfit your employees with a portable printer that is easy to carry and ready for a quick print? Then Zebra has a range of portable label printers. Less suited for large quantities, but incredibly functional, robust and ready for heavy-handed use.

NEED HELP IN CHOOSING YOUR IDEAL INVENTORY SYSTEM?

Have you found the perfect label printer for your company and application? Here are some questions that help you find the optimal configuration for your labelling system.

In addition to the paper, the glue also needs to match the needs of your inventory management. How long should the label stick to the product? Can the glue come into contact with food? Under what circumstances are your goods stored? These are only some of the questions that help you determine the best label system for you.

Finally, the type of RFID inlay plays a crucial part. This is the smart component of your RFID label, chosen based on aspects such as the required reach of your labels and the application in which they are used.

All these factors are crucial to prevent loss of time and loss of quality in your inventory management.

NO IDEA WHERE TO START?

No problem. Microtron offers 40 years of experience in B2B IT solutions. We are happy to discuss your set-up with you, analyse your needs and propose solutions. We have an extensive range and expertise. From label printers and accessories through IPCs and network facilities to the required software integrations in your existing WMS/ERP system. You can also select our total service, where we configure all these components to make your inventory management as efficient as possible.

Ready for an efficient and user-friendly inventory management, custom-made for your company? Then feel free to contact Microtron. Our experts are at your service!