In warehouse and logistics operations, LPNs (License Plate Numbers) serve as specialized barcode tags that act as digital fingerprints for inventory batches—whether they're individual boxes, pallets, or entire shipments. Take Amazon's fulfillment centers, for example: these LPN labels help trace inventory movement from receiving to shipping. Equipping teams with right LPN barcode scanners doesn't just speed up data capture—it slashes costly errors that derail inventory accuracy.
Here's what sets LPNs apart: Forget single-item tracking—LPN barcodes are built for bulk. While traditional UPC codes identify lone products, LPNs monitor entire pallets or shipments, facilitating more efficient tracking of bulk movements. Popular formats like Code 128, GS1-128, and Data Matrix give warehouses flexibility, balancing scan reliability with space-saving designs.
LPN Barcodes in Amazon's Fulfillment Centers
Amazon, a leader in logistics innovation, employs LPN barcodes extensively within its fulfillment centers.
● Inbound
When a pallet or boxes from sellers arrive at an Amazon fulfillment center, it's immediately tagged with a unique LPN barcode. LPN barcodes link the pallet to its contents, supplier, and movement status in Amazon's Warehouse Management System (WMS).
● Inventory Placement
Amazon's WMS algorithm determines the best storage location for each pallet or box. Once at the location, the worker uses an LPN barcode scanner to read the Amazon label, verifying that the pallet is placed correctly in the assigned bin or shelf.
● Order Fulfillment
When a customer places an order, the system uses LPN barcodes to locate the items, and the warehouse team picks and packs the items accordingly. The LPN barcode is scanned again during the packing process to ensure that the correct items are placed into the correct package, reducing picking errors.
● Returns and Resale
When items are returned, Amazon assigns them a new LPN RR barcode to track them during processing and potential re-shelving.
Benefits of LPN Barcode Scanners in Warehousing
As the steps above illustrate, barcode scanners are essential at each stage—receiving, put-away, picking, and shipping—for reading LPN barcode labels in Amazon warehouses.
Each scan updates the central database immediately, providing management with up-to-date information on stock levels, item locations, and order statuses. This real-time visibility is critical for making informed decisions and responding swiftly to operational demands.
How to Choose the Right LPN Barcode Scanner
Warehouse operations involve multiple stages, each requiring tailored LPN barcode scanning solutions.
1. Handheld Barcode Scanners
Ideal for: Manual picking, order packaging, shipment verification
Recommended Product: iDPRT HN-33 Series 2D Barcode Scanner
Key Features:
● Wired or Wireless Barcode Scanners: Wireless Bluetooth models support mobile scanning (e.g., handheld picking), while wired versions suit fixed stations like packing desks or outbound checkpoints.
● Broad Compatibility: Reads 1D codes (Code 128) and 2D codes (QR Code, DM Code), meeting the demands of Amazon FBA and e-commerce warehouses for efficient LPN tracking.
2. Handheld PDA Terminals
Ideal for: Inventory audits, shelf locating, task dispatching
Recommended Product: iDPRT M2 Plus PDA Scanner
Key Features:
● All-in-One Functionality: Combines LPN barcode scanning, wireless data collection, inventory management, and shelf mapping for large-scale operations.
● Real-Time Data Sync: Built-in Wi-Fi/4G modules allow instant LPN barcode scanning and automatic data uploads, ensuring up-to-date inventory records and minimizing human error.
● User-Friendly Design: Runs on Android or Windows OS with touchscreen controls, supporting customized WMS software for optimized LPN tracking.
● Rugged Build: IP65-rated dust/water resistance and drop-proof durability (up to 1.5 meters), ideal for harsh environments.
Looking for high-performance barcode scanners for warehousing? As a trusted leader in AIDC (Automatic Identification and Data Capture) solutions, iDPRT offers a comprehensive range of handheld, fixed and embedded barcode scanners with stable performance and rapid scanning speeds. Our products have has helped countless warehouses streamline workflows, improve inventory accuracy, and boost operational efficiency.
Contact us today for expert recommendations and tailored scanning solutions!
Q&A: LPN Barcodes Amazon
Q1: What does LPN mean on a barcode?
A: LPN (License Plate Number) is a unique barcode identifier used to label pallets, containers, or inventory units. Unlike standard product barcodes (e.g., UPC or FNSKU), LPNs focus on tracking bulk inventory movements rather than individual items.
Q2: What does LPN mean on Amazon packages?
A: On Amazon packages, an LPN barcode is used to track the movement of inventory within Amazon's fulfillment network. It allows Amazon to efficiently manage and locate large volumes of inventory, especially during processes like receiving, storage, picking, and returns.
Note: LPN RR (Reverse Logistics LPN) is dedicated to return management, helping Amazon monitor the inspection, restocking, or disposal of returned goods.
Q3: What is an LPN number?
A: An LPN number is a unique code (auto-generated or sequential) assigned to inventory units, storage bins, or shipping containers. It enables warehouse management systems (WMS) to precisely record item locations, monitor stock movements, and enhance picking/replenishment efficiency.
