Software & Tools
Inventory scanner workflow — what hardware do you use?
Hey everyone! I'm looking to streamline my inventory management process at my shop and I'm curious about what hardware you all use for scanning. Currently, I have a basic setup with a handheld barcode scanner, but I often find it slow and cumbersome. I'm considering upgrading to something more efficient, especially since we deal with a high volume of parts. I want to hear about your experiences. Do you prefer using dedicated barcode scanners, or have you found success with mobile devices and apps? Also, any recommendations on software that integrates well with your workflow would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
2 Answers
I highly recommend investing in a dedicated barcode scanner. We switched to the Zebra DS2208 last year, and it’s been a game-changer. The scanning speed is excellent, and it reads both 1D and 2D barcodes, which is crucial for us since we handle a variety of parts. We use it in conjunction with our shop management software, which has streamlined our inventory updates significantly. Plus, it connects via USB, so it’s super easy to set up. For software, we use Shop-Ware, and I’ve found that it integrates seamlessly with the hardware, making our workflow much smoother. Cost-wise, the Zebra DS2208 is around $200, but I’ve seen it as low as $150 during sales. It’s worth every penny for the time it saves us!
I’ve had good luck using a mobile device with a barcode scanning app. We use an iPad with the Scan app, and it’s quite versatile. While it’s not as fast as a dedicated scanner, it fits our needs well since we can easily carry it around the shop. We also utilize QuickBooks for inventory management, which the app syncs with, allowing for easy updates. The only downside is that it requires a bit more setup and can sometimes struggle with damaged barcodes. If you’re leaning towards a mobile solution, make sure to have a solid Wi-Fi connection to avoid any hiccups.