Wasp Barcode Inventory Control - Manual (Page 30)

InventoryControl Printable Help
2.6 Labeling Items
Just as every location should have a barcode, each individual piece of inventory needs a barcode. You
should print your item numbers on labels and put them on each individual item before they are put away
on a shelf. You get the same time saving and accuracy benefits from labeling inventory items as you get
from labeling the locations, but on a greater scale. Sometimes it is not feasible to have a label on each
piece of inventory because the item is too small. In this case, put the item's barcode on the container in
which the item is stored on the shelf. The label should have the item name as well as a number
representing the item encoded as a barcode as in the example shown below:
It is important not to use a text description or abbreviation as the item number because a numbering
scheme is more flexible and easier to encode to a small barcode. Most labeling software can be set up to
use a number for the barcode and to print the description or item name under the barcode.
InventoryControl allows you to print your item barcodes as the inventory comes in or
pre-print barcodes
from the Item List screen to apply.
If you pick a numbering scheme and stick to it you will find that you start to recognize the numbers as
easily as the names. The specific numbering scheme you use to identify the items can start at 1000 and
count up, if that is what you want. Some companies assign all or part of the SKU number they are issued
as the item number. Because item models may change over time or sub-models may become available,
you may need to use a numbering scheme that can adapt without losing the item's identity. Many
companies allow gaps in the numbering scheme to allow for this growth and for changes. For instance,
one item number is 19500 and another is 19600. When an optional feature is added to the 19500, it is
assigned 19510 since both are kept in inventory. The 19600 item is discontinue and another model takes
its place and is assigned 19601. This way, the 195xx line of products is maintained and are easily
identified with each other.
Recommended Barcode Ranges
Barcode Label Range
Sites 100-199
Manufacturers 500-599
Suppliers 1000-2000
Items 20000 and up
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