Today, it’s hard to think of an industry that does not leverage barcode technology. With so many exciting benefits, barcodes have now become ubiquitous. And supply chain logistics is no exception. From streamlining workflows to providing better security, barcode in supply chain offers multiple benefits. Take a look at how barcode scanning technology can help improve supply chain logistics.
What is barcode reader
A barcode reader, additionally called a value scanner or retail location ( POS ) scanner, is a hand-held or fixed input gadget used to catch and peruse data contained in a standardized identification . A barcode reader comprises of a scanner , a decoder (either implicit or outside), and a link used to associate the reader with a PC. Since a barcode reader just catches and makes an interpretation of the barcode into numbers as well as letters, the information should be shipped off a PC so a product application can figure out the information. Barcode scanners can be associated with a PC through a sequential port , console port , or a point of interaction gadget called a wedge . A barcode reader works by coordinating a light emission across the standardized tag and estimating how much light that is reflected back. (The dim bars on a barcode mirror less light than the blank areas between them.) The scanner changes over the light energy into electrical energy, which is then changed over into information by the decoder and sent to a computer.A barcode reader, likewise called a value scanner or retail location ( POS ) scanner, is a hand-held or fixed input gadget used to catch and peruse data contained in a standardized tag . A barcode reader comprises of a scanner , a decoder (either implicit or outside), and a link used to associate the reader with a PC. Since a barcode reader only catches and makes an interpretation of the barcode into numbers or potentially letters, the information should be shipped off a PC so a product application can figure out the information. Barcode scanners can be associated with a PC through a sequential port , console port , or a point of interaction gadget called a wedge . A barcode reader works by coordinating a light emission across the standardized identification and estimating how much light that is reflected back. (The dull bars on a barcode mirror less light than the blank areas between them.) The scanner changes over the light energy into electrical energy, which is then changed over into information by the decoder and sent to a PC.
Best 10 Barcode Scanner Apps for iPhone & Android
- Scout Mobile Inventory
- Time Station
- Scan to Spreadsheet
- Inventory Droid
- Stock Control
- Barcode Express Pro
- vWorkApp
- EZ Office Inventory
- Entry Manager
- JumpTrack
Quick Scanning – Barcode Reader
With robust barcode scanning software, you can quickly read multiple barcodes in a few seconds. Gone are the days when barcode scanning used to take much time, as modern barcode readers can scan more than 500 barcodes in a minute. Yes, you heard it right! Not to mention, you don’t necessarily need to have a handheld scanner, as you can transform your mobile devices with the help of a barcode reader SDK. Just a few lines of code, and your workforce can perform barcode scanning on the go.
Enhanced Visibility in Real-Time
The data scanned with the barcode reader can be transmitted to a cloud server or host computer as per your setup. This data can be accessed in real-time by the stakeholders involved in the supply chain, from managers to sales executives or employees. By doing so, they can take the necessary action at every step. As a result, it provides better visibility and transparency. Other crucial benefits include the ability to tackle counterfeits, confirm deliveries, and enable recalls.
Quality Control and Data Accuracy
Modern barcode scanning software are highly accurate. So, you won’t end up with errors. Leading barcode scanning solutions offer near 100 percent accuracy.
Even a single mistake can lead to significant losses in the supply chain. With barcode technology, your workforce won’t have to manually record and view data, which ultimately will reduce errors. So, you won’t have to face problems such as shipment delays, shrinkage, increased out-of-stock, etc. Moreover, the personnel can focus on other operations that further boost productivity. Hence, barcode in supply chain logistics has now become a necessity.
Reduced Costs – Barcode Reader
Barcode technology is cost-effective. While traditionally, most businesses relied on handheld barcode scanners, the trend is now shifting. Mobile barcode scanning has now become more popular than ever, thanks to the increase of smartphones and mobile devices.
As mentioned above, you can look for a barcode reader SDK most suitable for your business to embed barcode reading functionality into mobile and web apps. Hence, you won’t have to invest in expensive and bulky handheld barcode scanners. Also, barcode reader SDKs don’t cost much as compared to other similar solutions.
Better Security
Businesses need to safeguard their inventory and customer data at all costs. Barcode in supply chain logistics ensures more robust security. As barcode technology helps reduce errors, there are very few chances of mix-ups and mistakes. Also, the data scanned by the barcode reader can be password-protected in the cloud or the host computer. Barcode technology is entirely auditable and traceable that further helps reduce the chances of theft, loss, and liability. Thus, your system gets better security.
Easy to Use and Train
Unlike most modern technologies and devices, barcode scanning software are not challenging to use. So, you don’t have to spend days training your workforce to make them learn how to use one. With an easy interface and mechanism, you can easily integrate barcode technology into your system and leverage its many benefits.