Barcode Systems for
Inventory Management
Scaling from a spreadsheet to a professional tracking system requires a solid barcode foundation. Learn how to implement a system that reduces human error by 99% and provides real-time stock clarity.
The 3 Pillars of Barcode Inventory
Identification
Assigning unique SKUs (Stock Keeping Units) to every product variation. This is the"language" your warehouse will speak.
Labeling
Choosing the right symbology (like Code 128) and printing on durable materials that withstand shelf-wear.
Scanning
Deploying hardware or mobile software that integrates directly with your central database for real-time updates.
The Barcode Workflow
A professional inventory cycle ensures that no item is ever "lost" in the system.
Receiving
Scan items as they arrive to update stock levels instantly.
Storage
Scan the item and the 'Bin Location' to know exactly where it sits.
Picking
Verify the SKU during order fulfillment to prevent shipping errors.
Inventory vs. Asset Tracking
Many businesses confuse these two. Inventory tracking refers to items you sell or consume (stock levels). Asset tracking refers to items the business owns (laptops, machinery, vehicles).
Symbolify supports both, but inventory requires high-density 1D barcodes like Code 128 for speed, while assets often benefit from QR codes for maintenance logs.
Common Implementation Mistakes
- ✕Non-Unique SKUs: Reusing numbers for different colors/sizes of the same product.
- ✕Poor Contrast: Printing dark barcodes on dark labels makes them unreadable for standard lasers.
- ✕Ignoring Quiet Zones: Not leaving enough white space around the barcode.
Which Barcode for Inventory?
For internal inventory, Code 128 is the industry gold standard. It allows for alphanumeric characters, meaning you can include location codes and serial numbers in a single scan.
Learn more about Code 128 vs UPC →Start Your Inventory System
Generate standard-compliant Code 128 barcodes in high-resolution vector formats for your warehouse labels today.