Barcode Hardware Setup: Choosing the Right Scanners & Label Printers for Your Business

Barcodes are everywhere, but what do you really need to start using them effectively in your business? In this episode, we break down the essential hardware for barcoding, from scanners to label printers and everything in between. Learn the differences between stationary, handheld, and wearable barcode printers, plus key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your workflow.

We also discuss how barcode software ties it all together—because having a scanner and printer isn’t enough without the right system to track your inventory. If you’re looking to optimize your operations with barcodes, this episode is a must-listen!

🛒 Shop our NEW inFlow Portable Printer! NOW AVAILABLE!
https://www.inflowshop.com/collections/label-printers

0:00 Intro
1:49 How do barcode scanners work?
2:26 What kinds of barcode scanners are there?
3:12 What are the subcategories?
3:30 Pen scanners
4:36 Laser scanners
5:29 Bluetooth scanners
6:05 Smart scanners
7:37 CCD scanners
8:00 Image scanners
8:55 Smartphone camera
9:35 How do you choose which scanner is best?
11:26 What about label printers?
12:11 What kind of label printers are there?
12:51 Stationary printers
13:15 Handheld printers
13:40 Wearable printers
15:19 What to consider when looking for a barcode printer?
16:38 inFlow Portable Printer: now available on inFlowShop.com!
17:34 What makes the inFlow portable printer different?
19:25 What are the best practices for label printing?
21:43 What to consider when printing labels?
23:25 Barcode software
24:40 inFlow barcode generator
26:55 Outro

📝 Helpful Articles:

What Is the Best Barcode Scanner for Small Businesses?
https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/best-barcode-scanner/

Finding the Perfect Barcode Label Printer for Your Business
https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/barcode-label-printer/

Read our ultimate barcoding guide:
https://www.inflowinventory.com/blog/the-ultimate-barcoding-guide/

Do you need a GS1 registered barcode? Check out the inFlow GTIN barcode shop:
https://inflowinventory.com/gtin-barcodes

✅ Try inFlow's 14-day free trial to manage your inventory and make sure you never run out of stock:
https://www.inflowinventory.com/

🎧 Stream our podcast on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2ynkKYhfivEWn6IRkA113D?si=2f45b350e474404b

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