Barcode guide to selecting the best barcode label

A Story by Sonam

It is important for the business to manage and maintain a product list that is capable of maximizing profits. For many companies, the barcode is essential. See how

What is Barcode?

It is important for the business to manage and maintain a product list that is capable of maximizing profits. For many companies, the barcode is essential. Warehouses, distribution centers, logistics companies and manufacturers cannot operate without an effective barcode. Document management also uses barcodes.

Barcodes are simply a series of vertical black bars separated by white spaces of different shapes and sizes. They store product identification information such as product name, product price, company name, quantity and a large array of other data that can be read by any simple scanner. Due to their simplicity and importance in business, they are widely used in various industries like retail, chemical, garment, automotive, jewellery and many more.

Benefits of Barcode:

Allows for faster and more efficient customer service
Maintains a record of products and the need for replenishment.
Helps in the management of business inventory
Maintain complete product information
Increases point-of-sale check-out operations
Assists customers during self-service check-outs.
Helps in forecasting demand for any product.
Accelerate the business transaction

How to select the best barcode label?

Application

What your barcode label will be used for and where it will be applied is important in choosing a label. To determine the correct barcode label, you need to answer questions about indoor or outdoor use, humidity effects, and temperature range.

Durability

Some barcode labels must be durable for long periods. Other labels only need to last for a short time (e.g., during shipment). Not only do the labels need to last, but the printed barcode and verbiage should be considered.

Environment

Will there be strict conditions on your barcode labels? Direct sunlight, dirt, grease, heat, cold, water, food, or anything else must be well thought out for your barcode labels.

Thermal Transfer vs. Direct Thermal

To summarise, should you print with or without a ribbon? It all comes down to Application, Environment, and Durability.

Direct Thermal transfers your barcode image to the material using a heat-activated material. This eliminates the need for a ribbon and works well in temperature-controlled environments where direct sunlight and heat are not an issue.

Thermal Transfer uses a wax/wax-resin/resin ribbon to apply a heat transfer process to your label material to increase durability and readability for heat and direct sunlight resistance.

Stock Face

It is essential to use the proper face stock. The decision between direct thermal and thermal transfer is just the beginning. Next, decide whether you'll use a paper label, a synthetic material, vinyl, or even plastic. This is determined by the specifications of your specific product.

Adhesive

The right adhesive can make or break whether your barcode label stays in place. Consider the temperature range, the location of your label, and the level of permanence.

Must read: How To Select The Right Barcode Label