How to Choose the Best Barcode Printers & Software for Your Work-Related Projects

People who are striving to grow their small businesses are constantly looking for advanced and affordable equipment that could increase their productivity and help them gain a competitive edge. These days, all companies that desire to reduce costs and improve workflow count on a personalized barcode system designed to address all their needs and requirements. According to eHow, barcode printers and their compatible software allow them to create, customize and print barcode labels that go on various goods and simplify inventory control, help monitor shipments and even maintain a better relationship between merchants and clients.

There are various types of barcode printers that could represent a good pick for your company. Models vary a great deal in size, shape and technical specifications and can offer you different volumes of product labels. In this context, how could you possibly choose the very best barcode printer, printer app and software for your store without taking any chances? Simplify your decision-making process by applying the selection criteria listed below.

Printing Method. When it comes to barcode systems, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution.  Therefore, a deeper understanding of the technologies that ensure the flawless functionality of common barcode printers could allow you to make an informed purchase. You should know that printers can be separated into two main groups based on their printing technique: Direct Thermal (DT) and Thermal Transfer (TT). DT means that the barcodes are printed directly on the labels. TT involves the presence of a printhead and a ribbon. The latter option is preferred by companies that work with a wider range of materials, not just paper. This is precisely why you should also determine where you need to imprint your barcodes before actually buying the printer. In case you have to print on plastic or various other synthetic materials, you should go in favor of a thermal transfer barcode printer.

Label Volume. Label volume is another essential factor that you should consider. How many barcode labels will you require on a daily basis? Several models have been designed to match different needs. For instance:

• Desktop printers are suitable for those who want to create less than 500 labels per day
• Light-duty industrial printers can give you anywhere from 500 to 1,500 labels per day
• Heavier-duty options are recommended for companies looking forward to obtaining around 3,000 barcode labels daily
• Heaviest-duty alternatives can deliver anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 labels on a daily basis

Software. A complete, fully functional barcode system revolves around first-hand hardware and software. The software that you use should be compatible with your barcode printer. You can’t start printing any labels if you don’t have the right software for this job. While various Windows-based programs give users the opportunity to design labels, their potential can’t compare to the ones displayed by specialized software ensuring a complete package and plenty of customization options. The best software for your work-related project should be easy to install and use and extremely intuitive. Since your aesthetic and practical needs may vary a great deal from the ones expressed by the main competitors in your sector, your software should offer you the chance to choose from different design templates that you could customize in endless ways based on your most important criteria.

For instance, the Barcode Printer introduced by Shopifylets the users print barcode labels and assign them to various goods; it also enables them to export their products into their Demo Label printing software. This way, you could generate and print simple barcodes, or customize, save and print personalized barcode labels that meet your unique standards. The app is paired with the POS solution to ensure a more effective and simplified barcode workflow for your entire store.

Extra Features. Naturally, when it comes to buying a new barcode printer and printer software you start by weighing the pros and cons of all potential candidates. This time, go beyond price tags and opt for the barcode system that provides the most useful combination of innovative features. According to toptenreviews.com, the sky is the limit when it comes implementing advanced technology leading to the development of newer models of barcode printers. Portable gadgets that print your labels can be connected to your smartphone, tablet or laptop. These items can be used to create barcode labels even when you’re doing business on the run, so they are extremely appealing in the eyes of a large category of users. There are various other intriguing features that might interest you. For example, according to Street Directory, certain last-generation models also incorporate hi-tech security features designed to prevent counterfeit coding. These gadgets are extremely appreciated in sectors where elevated security measures and privacy protection are considered a top priority.

All in all, by selecting a barcode label printer based on these criteria you have a better chance of getting your money’s worth while walking away with a project that can cope with your daily operations and specific requirements.