| Among the challenges is the
successful bar code labeling of the warehouse for companies
installing automatic data collection. Successfully labeling a
distribution center requires careful attention to detail, a thorough
knowledge of both the current and anticipated modes of operation and
most importantly, sufficient time within the scope of the project
timeline to complete the job properly.
Some of the hurdles companies will face
are: specifying the correct scanning equipment; inaccurate, out of
date or nonexistent location databases; a mix of various types of
material handling equipment used within the same storage areas;
harsh storage environments such as freezers or outside locations;
rack/aisle configurations; and staff training.
If a successful scan is to be
accomplished, the team needs to clearly understand some of the key
elements of scanning and how it relates to their operating
environment. Scanners are made to scan from
specified distances (short range/long range). Bar code labels are
printed in different sizes. The most important scanning concept for
the team to understand is the concept of 'depth of field." The
depth of field is the minimum and maximum distance that the scanner
is capable of reading for the size of the bar code being scanned.
The size of a bar code is determined in thousandths of an inch (mil
size) by measuring the thinnest bar (referred to as X dimension) in
the bar code symbol.
Unless the correct combination of
scanner and X dimension is specified, material handling staff will
not achieve consistent scans. This leads to hand keying and all the
resultant data errors associated with manual data input. The bar
code scanner and bar code label specifications should be designed to
insure a first pass scan. As in the installation of most new
technologies, ease of use will insure greater staff acceptance.
Map the territory...
Often warehouses have outdated or
inaccurate facility location maps. No bar code labeling of the
warehouse can begin until a complete and accurate map of the
facility is available. Project teams often underestimate the time
required to accomplish this task. This is a critical issue which
should be addressed very early in the process of implementation.
Facilities putting away and picking
full pallets in five high racking with reach trucks will require a
different labeling solution from those putting away full pal-lets
but picking partial pallets from all levels with man up equipment. A
warehouse with narrow aisles using reach trucks may not be a
candidate for a ~point and shoot" labeling solution requiring
20 foot scans to the top rack storage locations. Alternative
labeling solutions may have to be explored and tested. This is an
area where an experienced bar code label vendor can provide valuable
assistance.
Facilities with temperature extremes,
dusty or dirty operating environments or outdoor storage often
require specialized labeling to accomplish their goals. An example
of a harsh application is freezer racking which requires labels to
be placed into service and adhere at minus 20 F.
Durable material/adhesive combinations
capable of "setting up" at minus 20 F are commercially
available for labeling operating freezers. Labels placed on
magnets can also be used to overcome the extreme temperatures of
commercial freezer storage facilities. There are many specialty
materials available that a knowledgeable bar code label vendor can
recommend and provide samples of for testing.
In addition to considering the impact
of material handling equipment on the labeling solutions, the
physical design of the existing facility is critical to developing a
successful bar code labeling solution. The physical design of the
rack load bearing beams, facility lighting and aisle widths are all
critical elements to consider when designing a solutions.
| Print
In-House if... |
Purchase
Labels if... |
| Printing
directly on items or packaging |
Extreme
quantities, sizes or tolerances are required |
| Information
is dynamic or lead times not sufficient for preprint |
Specialty
materials are required for a one-time application
particularly if the label requires lamination |
| Work
follow precludes use of an outside vendor |
Specialty
needs such as color coding, die cutting or sign
manufacturing are required |
In conclusion...
Labeling solutions can be devised to
label any warehouse no matter how diverse or complex the
application. Specialty materials, color coding, signage and
specialty label holders can be employed to solve even the most
difficult labeling problems. Do not underestimate the value of
working with an experienced label vendor who knows the potential
pitfalls and can help you avoid them. The successful labeling of a
warehouse can be accomplished if the project team starts early,
meets often and tests.
|
