Each RFID and barcode technology has pros and negatives based on how you intend to use it. You may determine the best solution for your company by clearly grasping your objectives for the platform’s security, dependability, affordability, and deployment.
In this post, we’ll describe RFID and barcoding, go through each one’s benefits, and provide some instances from the real world to illustrate how the two popular warehouse technologies differ from one another.
Guide to RFID for Warehouse
An RFID is a tiny tag with a microchip inside that is cover in either paper or plastic for security. The microchip retains all information allocated to it, including details about the item it is attach to, such as its weight, size, and material costs.
A reader with NFC capability to decode an RFID tag is require. RFID scanners use radio waves to turn on the RFID link’s microchip. Additionally, you may get all the details you require without connecting to the internet because all goods information is kept on the chip rather than in a database.
Radiofrequency technology is use by RFID scanners and tags, which has the potential to save businesses a significant amount of money and time.
To begin with, RFID scanners can access countless RFID tags simultaneously, even when they are hidden by a fence or box or are located far away.
Additionally, you can read them from just about any angle, saving warehouse staff the time it would take to turn each container on its side before scanning it, thus making it an excellent warehouse management software.
Guide to Barcode for Warehouse
Barcode is another popular warehouse management solution. If you’ve ever been to a grocery store and have seen the staff scanning the barcode or have use the self-checkout register, you’re accustomed to scanning barcodes.
Typically, a UPC identifier, a stock-keeping unit identification, or both are embed in a barcode, a pattern of black and white vertical bars.
Scanners extract these encoded numbers from the barcode, which can then be compare to the inventory system database to retrieve product details.
No matter what kind of barcode your company utilizes (1D or 2D), barcodes are affordable and simple. Barcode systems can be implement without spending a lot of money upfront on hardware because barcode scanners are inexpensive and already present on most Android and iOS devices.
Additionally, barcode monitoring is unquestionably quicker and more precise than manual tracking of products.
Barcode technologies are still widely utilize, particularly in the retail industry. The typical nature of the items sold at stores is the cause since these need the most basic data, like title, SKU, rate, etc.
For things like these, barcodes would suffice because you don’t require a high level of protection or to identify each product uniquely.
RFID vs Barcode- The battle begins
Both of these technologies are popular and highly efficient. They both are highly capable of tracking inventory and monitoring the movement in real-time. But every warehouse management software has its set purpose and specifications. What works for one enterprise might not work for another.
The debate between RFID and barcode has frequently been frame as one between the past and the present, with supporters of each technology eager to demonstrate why theirs is the superior choice.
In principle, RFID and barcode have a lot in common because they aim to address resource business issues. Even while we frequently refer to a single of these warehouse management solutions as the sole option. It is incredibly typical to see both being use simultaneously.
Since both the software offer similar solutions, it is better to put them under the magnifying glass concerning the enterprises these systems are use in. Let’s have a look.
Size of the warehouse
The dimensions of the warehouse should be take into account when comparing the two warehouse management solutions. Can workers comprehend or scan objects in their line of vision explicitly?
RFID is only sometimes required in small to mid-size warehouses since it is easier to track inventory stock in a humble establishment than in an enormous warehouse. In larger environments, it necessitates a great deal of effort and resources to scan every item in an extensive inventory.
You also need to consider the kind of items your warehouse contains. Are the things big and require more security, or are they small and do not ask for additional security? In the former case, RFID is a great option. Similarly, in the latter case, barcodes are recommend.
Suppose the warehouse is of modest size with more straightforward items such as plastic toys or stationery. In such cases, barcode software is sufficient and even recommended. For bigger warehouses, RFID is a better option.
Immediate environment
Despite this, extreme weather is not frequently seen in a warehouse location, and merchandise is rarely subject to severe water leaks or subfreezing temperatures.
If a moderate temperature area, where there is no sign of potential damage or data breach, the barcode will work fine.
Installation cost
Whenever there is a debate about two equally efficient warehouse management software, one of the most influential factors is the cost. The first thing a business owner thinks is,” how much a particular is going to cost them and if the software is expensive, is it going to be worth it?”
RFID has three types, LF(Low Frequency), HF (High Frequency), and UHF(Ultra High Frequency). The cost of each type varies as well. Low-Frequency RFIDs are less expensive than their more advanced versions.
In general, getting RFID tags for your warehouse is an expensive affair. Consider the products, size, and requirements of your warehouse before selecting any warehouse software.
Getting RFID for a smaller space with simpler items is an unnecessary investment. Similarly, if you have a large warehouse containing complex high-security items, ensure you get the compatible warehouse management software. On the other hand, for modest spaces, barcodes are prefer.
The Last Lines!
RFID and barcode make monitoring stock and managing inventory much faster and error-free. While they both serve the same purpose, they also come with their set of differences. Do your thorough research before purchasing anyone.
