Are you tired of struggling with inaccurate inventory tracking and time-consuming manual processes? Implementing a barcode scanner and printer combo can transform how small businesses track stock, manage orders, and increase efficiency.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using a barcode scanner and printer combo, help you choose the right equipment, and recommend the best kit.
Barcode Scanner and Printer in the Warehouse System
Manually entering stock and inventory details is a pain - it’s slow and easy to make mistakes. These days, modern warehouses are all about going digital with barcode systems. Barcode scanners and printers are the must-have tools for efficient inventory management.
Integrated into warehouse management systems, barcode printers are responsible for creating and printing a variety of barcode labels. These labels contain unique identifiers, or SKUs, encoded as barcodes or QR codes for identification and tracking purposes. This includes product barcodes, pallet labels, packaging labels, shipping labels, and carton labels.
Barcode scanners, on the other hand, enable warehouse personnel to capture barcode data and transmit it to the system, leading inventory records to be automatically updated. These devices are particularly useful for tasks such as goods receiving, put-away, picking, and inventory counting.
These barcode printing and scanning devices help businesses ensure faster stock tracking, real-time updates, and more accurate inventory counts, all of which save time and improve efficiency.
How to Choose the Right Barcode Scanner and Printer Combo
For small businesses, selecting the right barcode scanner and printer combo requires careful consideration of several factors:
● Budget: Determine your overall budget for the system.
● Scanner Types: Laser, image barcode scanner or handheld PDA？ Wired or wireless scanner?
● Printer Types: Desktop barcode printer or mobile printer?
● Durability: Opt for rugged and durable barcode equipment that is less prone to breakdowns, providing long-term cost-effectiveness.
● User-Friendliness: Select devices that are easy to set up and use.
● Software Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with your existing inventory management software like Odoo, ERP, and SAP.
When it comes to scanner types, laser scanners are a solid choice if you’re mainly working with 1D barcodes. They’re fast, super accurate, and perfect for scanning long, linear barcodes on things like shipping labels and inventory tags.
That said, they don’t perform well with 2D barcodes (like QR codes) or damaged labels. For those, it’s better to go with an Image (CMOS) Scanner. While they can be pricier, they use a camera to capture barcode images and can handle both 1D and 2D barcodes, including those on mobile devices or slightly damaged labels.
For small warehouses requiring inventory counts, wireless Bluetooth barcode scanners are a practical choice. These devices allow workers to move freely throughout the warehouse and scan product barcodes on shelves.
But if you’ve got a larger space, with lots of shelving and potential Bluetooth signal interference, you might want to look into handheld PDAs with SIM cards. These devices not only extend your scanning range but can also integrate with your Warehouse Management System (WMS) for tasks like receiving stock, confirming shipments, and managing returns.
The Best Barcode Scanner and Printer Combo for Small to Medium-sized Business Needs
iDPRT supplies a wide range of high-quality barcode equipment with excellent performance, competitive pricing, and flexible customization services.
For small to medium-sized businesses, we recommend the iDPRT M2 Plus Handheld PDA, paired with the iD4S Direct Thermal Barcode Printer, a versatile, powerful combo that’s perfect for handling various warehousing tasks.
This 4-inch thermal barcode printer lets you print crisp, professional barcodes or QR code labels for your inventory needs. It’s fast, highly compatible, and provides 203dpi and 300dpi resolution options.
The iDPRT iD4S has multiple connection interfaces, including USB, Ethernet, and optional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It easily integrates with your ERP systems and e-commerce platforms. Whether you’re printing product SKUs, Shopify barcodes, UPC labels, or larger shipping, carton boxs, and pallet labels, the iE4S has you covered with reliable, compliant results.
For scanning, the iDPRT M2 Plus Handheld PDA is super light and easy to carry, but tough enough for rugged warehouse environments with IP67 protection, so you don’t have to worry about dust, water, or drops.
Scan products, shelves, or boxes with ease, whether you’re at the warehouse entrance, in the aisles, or by the shelves. With its 5.7-inch touchscreen, it’s easy to manage tasks like shipping, inventory counts, and returns, with all the information syncing directly to your warehouse management system.
The M2 Plus can also connect wirelessly to the iDPRT iE4S thermal barcode printer, allowing you to print packing slips, notes, or even replace damaged product and packaging barcodes on the spot.
Powered by a fast octa-core processor and running on Android 12, the M2 Plus delivers smooth, reliable performance. Its large, removable battery means you can keep working long without needing to stop and recharge, perfect for heavy-duty tasks like inventory management, order picking, and real-time tracking—without any interruptions.
To sum up, the iDPRT M2 Plus Handheld PDA paired with the iD4S Direct Thermal Barcode Printer is a great combo for small businesses handling multiple tasks in the warehouse. It’s perfect for e-commerce companies, retailers, small independent shops, and small-scale manufacturers, offering the versatility needed to manage inventory, shipping, and other essential operations.
Ready to upgrade your barcode equipment for better efficiency? Contact us today and our expert team will work closely with you to identify the optimal solution for your business.
