Adding an automated bar code scanner to your warehouse can help maximize operations for a greater return on value. This technology enables devices to read bar codes and transfer information about products and their locations directly to your warehouse management system. Learn more about the options available and the benefits they provide for your facility.

Types of Bar Code Scanning Solutions and Their Use Cases

Numerous types of bar code scanning solutions exist with different technology approaches, including:

Scanning

  • Camera-based readers: These are among the newest reader types available. They combine two-dimensional scanner imaging with processing technology to read bar codes.
  • Laser scanners: This equipment relies on a laser beam and prism or mirror to help light travel across the bar code. The readers use a photodiode to measure reflection intensity and detect the code.
  • Omnidirectional readers: These typically function with lasers whose beams bounce in multiple directions. This feature allows the device to read the codes regardless of the product's orientation beneath the scanner.

Bar code scanning systems are ideal for many everyday warehouse management tasks, including:

  • Order fulfillment
  • Parts location
  • Receiving
  • Picking and staging
  • Returns processing

Benefits of Bar Code Scanning Inventory Systems

These solutions deliver numerous business advantages.

More Effective Inventory Management

Accurately tracking products is crucial to prevent financial loss — especially in environments with numerous SKUs where stock monitoring is more challenging. It's also far too easy to miscalculate quantities on hand or misplace goods in high-turnover operations. Manually processed and keyed data is subject to human error, further increasing the potential for inaccurate information.

A bar code scanning system provides real-time capture and visibility to help resolve those issues. Data confidence and decision-making improve with accurate, up-to-the-minute insights about your stock.

Better Picking Accuracy

Warehouse workforces are often busy and overwhelmed. Fatigue can lead to incorrect picks, resulting in customers receiving the wrong goods. That outcome creates a frustrating customer experience and the need to process a return or refund.

You can improve picking accuracy with a bar code scanning solution. The system compares the selected SKU to the order information to verify it's the right product. 

Higher Efficiency

Automated bar code readers also produce more operational efficiency through streamlined processes. With less need for manual keying and related paperwork, your business can save on labor costs. You'll also see increased throughput with faster picking, receiving and stocking than completely manual approaches can provide. 

Why Partner With Siggins?

Siggins is a premier design-build and retrofit consultant for end-to-end warehouse management solutions. Our team boasts extensive expertise across many industries and a reputation for customer success dating back to 1946. Our service footprint has extended to the entirety of North America, where we bring our knowledge and personalized attention to businesses of all sizes.

We use a consultative approach that's manufacturer-agnostic. As a result, we're uniquely qualified to recommend and help implement the best options from today's most respected equipment partners.

Trust Siggins for Advanced Warehouse Scanning Solutions

We can help you choose the ideal system for your specific workflows and business needs.

Contact a team member online to get started.

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