Businesses frequently make costly mistakes when ordering barcode labels that end up being errors that could have been avoided. The following are five of the most frequent barcode label ordering mistakes.
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Mistake 1: Picking the Wrong Size
Why does Size Matter?
It is of high importance how big or small the barcode label is. If it is larger than accurate, the scanner might not interpret the label correctly. Therefore, it is for the benefit of the manufacturer to define the precise size of the product label.
What to Consider when Choosing Label Size
Several factors to consider when choosing the size include:
The product size.
The space available for the label.
The distance from which the barcode will be scanned.
A larger barcode is generally easier to scan but must fit on your product without hiding important information.
Avoiding Sizing Errors
A good rule of thumb is to always measure the area where you will place the barcode label when placing an order to avoid sizing errors. Additionally, maintain a standard size for all labels. This not only helps in maintaining consistency but also simplifies the scanning process.
Mistake 2: Improper Barcode Symbology
Significance of Barcode Symbols
Barcode symbology is the language or format of the number sequence you see printed on labels. Each symbol has its own rules for encoding numbers, letters, and other characters. The incorrect choice of symbology can lead to unreadable or inaccurate data, which can lead to problems in the supply chain.
Choosing the Right Symbology
Barcode symbols could differ based on the industry, the type of data to be encoded, and the barcode scanning hardware. Thus, retail prefers UPC or EAN symbologies; on the other hand, logistics uses Code 128 or GS1-128.
Avoiding Symbology Errors
To avoid issues with symbols, it’s important to know what your industry requires and what your scanner is capable of. Make sure you have a good understanding of both to prevent problems. If you need clarification, consult with a barcode labeling expert such as AccuGraphiX or your specific barcode equipment supplier.
Mistake 3: Neglecting Environmental Factors
How the Environment Affects Barcode Labels
Temperature, moisture, and sunlight exposure have an effect on a barcode label’s durability and scanability. Labels not built for the environment will fade, lift, or tear in such a manner that they become useless.
Selecting Labels for Specific Environments
If extreme temperatures or moisture are an environmental factor, choose polyester and polypropylene labels. They are strong and resistant to harsh conditions. Additionally, consider UV-resistant labels if the label will be used outside. Lastly, if the labels can fail and become unreadable, find what materials and adhesives work best in these conditions.
Mistake 4: Overlooking Print Quality
Importance of Print Quality
The importance of print quality cannot be stressed enough. Poor print quality can result in crooked or unreadable barcodes, which can cause many errors.
Factors to Consider for Print Quality
Factors endangering print quality include:
The resolution of the printer.
The quality of the printing material.
The color contrast between the barcode and its background.
For better print reading, the color of the barcode should be significantly different from that of its background.
Optimal Print Conditions
For better optimal reading, the barcode should be printed in a black color against a white background. Furthermore, high-resolution printers and high-quality printing materials are ideal for high print output.
Print Quality High-Quality Print
Ensure that you get quality prints, and that can be achieved through high-quality printers and the kind of material used for the print. Additionally, it should be on a high contrast – specifically, black bars on a white background that it is known to have the best reading signal.
Mistake 5: Inadequate Barcode Label Testing
Why Testing is Crucial
Testing your barcode labels before they go into use is crucial to make sure they’re scannable and contain the correct information. Without testing, you run the risk of printing and using defective labels.
Performing Effective Barcode Testing
Effective barcode testing involves:
Checking the scannability and readability of the barcode.
Verifying the encoded information.
Testing the label.
This can be done with a barcode scanner and your preferred verification software. Avoiding Errors Through Comprehensive Testing
By doing your own thorough testing, you can catch and correct potential problems before your labels go into use, saving you time and money in the long run.
Any mistake in your barcodes can significantly affect your business. Therefore, pay attention to these common mistakes and implement strategies to avoid them so your business can run efficiently.
