From storage rooms to the retail floor, barcode scanner technology has revolutionized how businesses manage inventory.
Barcoding technology has come a long way from its grocery store roots in Troy, Ohio—businesses in nearly every industry that need to manage their perpetual inventory efficiently have taken advantage of barcode scanners and barcode scanner software.
Using barcode scanning technology comes with a plethora of benefits and competitive advantages:
- Data and inventory accuracy (humans make an error every 250 keystrokes, while a computer’s error rate is 1/36trillion)
- Addresses scalability issues (code 39 vs code 128 barcodes provide differing levels of complexity based on your current needs)
- Increases workflow efficiency (no deciphering handwriting, manually checking product supply, lower training/labor costs)
- They’re relatively inexpensive (the vast majority of scanners are affordable on any budget and can be easily synced with your business management software)
Barcode scanners will help your employees stay efficient, and inventory management software will help you stay on top of your inventory turnover ratio.
However, one piece is missing—printing the barcodes.
While outsourcing this process is an option, it is often costly and inefficient to your overall operations. If you want 500 SKUs ready to go for tomorrow morning, it will be in your best interest to have a company printer on standby.
Barcode Scanner Software
While the technological benefits of creating, printing, and utilizing SKUs are apparent, it’s not always as apparent which technology will be best suited for your SME.
Addressing your businesses specific needs will require asking yourself a few questions:
Does your business plan on increasing inventory size?
Is your business planning on diversifying the types of products available for purchase?
Does your business use or plan on using an e-commerce platform?
Do I have inventory management software I can use in tandem with my current equipment and SKUs?
Although individual business requirements vary, these scanners and printers are equipped to help SMEs expand their operations, save time and money, and overall increase productivity and profitability.
Barcode Scanners
NADAMOO
Overview: In terms of wireless scanning, this scanner has some of the best range as far as indoor scanners are concerned—about 100 yards. While the NADAMOO scanners function fully on laptops and PCs, they are not compatible with tablets and phones. Ideal for retail, warehouse, and any other setting that requires inventory management, this scanner includes a USB cable for easy data transmission.
Price: Around $35
Other Relevant Details: 20-hour charge, a range of 400 meters, can receive 32 separate data inputs at once.
TaoTronics
Overview: The TaoTronics scanner offers 2-in-1 functionality—supporting connectivity via Bluetooth and USB. In addition, the TaoTronics scanner is supported by most major PCs, tablets, and smartphones. Customization is also a hallmark of this scanner—you can set up a unique code to customize any barcode.
Price: Around $45
Other Relevant Details: 30-hour charge, 32-bit processor scans 200 times/second
Zebra
Overview: Zebra brand scanners—specifically the DS2208 model—are some of the most high-performing and versatile scanners on the market, and are perfect for every industry. Lightweight and ready to go right out of the box, this Zebra scanner scans barcodes efficiently at any angle and is capable of reading both 1D and 2D barcodes, including QR codes.
Price: Around $125
Other Relevant Details: antimicrobial protection, “aim line” for scanning from a distance, auto-syncs to most POS systems
WoneNice
Overview: A solid plug-and-play choice, this USB-connected scanner handles all of the basic functions a barcode scanner needs. The WoneNice scanner syncs with most hardware and software systems, and seamlessly translates relevant data.
Price: Around $20
Other Relevant Details: can withstand up to a 1.5m drop on concrete, inclination angle 55°, elevation angle 65°
Barcode Printers
Rollo
Overview: This commercial-grade, high-speed thermal printer is an ideal choice for label printing of all sizes (1.57” to 4.1”). Handling inventory and shipping label sizes, the Rollo printer executes at a rate of one shipping label per second. Compatible with most major operating systems and shipping platforms, the Rollo label printer even comes with free UPS labels.
Price: Around $190
Other Relevant Details: unlimited label height, U.S.-based customer service, how-to-videos included with purchase
Dymo
Overview: The Dymo thermal printer prints addresses, file folder names, and barcode labels at a rate of 51 labels per minute. This cost-effective model allows you to create customized labels from software already installed on your computer in addition to templates being available for download.
Price: Around $67
Other Relevant Details: labels available to be printed in multiple sizes
Brother
Overview: This wifi enabled thermal printer enables you to print in both red and black. At a rate of about 110 labels per second, it is one of the fastest options on the market. The Brother is able to communicate and print from multiple devices at once at 300 dpi. It comes with a 2-year warranty.
Price: Around $130
Other Relevant Details: includes an automatic cutter for various label sizes, optional battery extender available for portability
Sato
Overview: While priced a bit higher than most other items on this list, there is one main reason for this—it allows for ultra-secure RFID printing. Ideal for clients with sensitive information, this printer is beefed up with customizable features. With up to 600 dpi printing resolution, built-in tag verification, and a durable metal outer shell, this is one of the premiere label printers on the market.
Price: Around $1,200
Other Relevant Details: includes a responsive touchscreen that sends feedback, has automation capabilities and customizations
Looking for inventory management software that can sync with your barcoding equipment, track your inventory, create purchase orders, and develop custom reports? Check out our top picks for the best business management software for inventory management.