| Taking warehouse inventory is much easier and | | | | and monitor. So, data entry of practically any |
| more accurate with RFID software. But, Radio | | | | kind can be input remotely. |
| Frequency Identification, or RFID for short, can be | | | | Items without barcodes can be input manually. |
| used for more than successful inventories. | | | | When large items, such as furniture, are being |
| The portable devices can be used to scan a | | | | delivered to customers, the date and time of the |
| barcode and transmit the information to a central | | | | delivery can be entered. The capabilities are |
| computer. That makes them ideal for doing | | | | nearly limitless. |
| large inventories. But, if a company only brings | | | | Basically, it’s like having a computer the size |
| the “guns” out when it’s time to | | | | of a handheld barcode scanner. The guns are |
| count the stock, they are not taking full | | | | lightweight and special hip holsters are available for |
| advantage of the system. | | | | storage and transportation. |
| RF guns can be used at the receiving dock when | | | | While the battery life is limited, a charge will last a |
| deliveries come in. Large companies have been | | | | full day. Recharging every night is recommended. |
| doing that for years and it is becoming more | | | | If RFID software is used correctly and |
| commonplace in small businesses, too. It takes | | | | consistently, taking warehouse inventory is faster, |
| some of the human error out of receiving. | | | | as well as easier. Most companies feel that |
| The guns are particularly helpful when large items | | | | physical counts are still necessary, but that really |
| are received. They may reduce the risk of | | | | depends on the number and variety of products |
| injury, improving the warehouse’s safety | | | | being stocked. If theft is a problem, a physical |
| record and helping to protect the employee’s | | | | count may need to be taken every three to six |
| health. | | | | months. |
| Depending on the sensor’s sensitivity, they | | | | Some handhelds are equipped with printers, which |
| may be useful for “lifting” information | | | | allows for making labels or providing receipts. |
| from items stacked in the steel or on high | | | | Depending on the quality of the system, you may |
| shelves. If employees are equipped with the | | | | be able to make new barcodes to replace one |
| devices, they can check prices. That enhances | | | | that has been destroyed. |
| customer service. | | | | Doing a warehouse inventory without RFID |
| In addition to ensuring the accuracy of the | | | | software is expensive, because of the number of |
| warehouse inventory, RFID software can be used | | | | employee hours necessary to complete it. The |
| to collect other data, as well. Many handheld | | | | units often pay for themselves during the first |
| devices are equipped with a miniature keyboard | | | | year. |