Is it expensive to implement a barcoding system?

Implementing a barcoding system is a great way to improve organization, eliminate waste, and track information throughout the facility. While there is no doubt that using barcodes can help to improve the way things are done in the workplace, it is not free to implement so you have to weigh the costs and benefits.

Types of Barcoding Systems

The costs associated with implementing a barcoding system will vary greatly based on what type of system you use, and how it is installed. For a basic barcode system it will generally cost under $1000 to fully setup and install. This will include the hardware, a printer to create barcode labels, and the software needed to track everything.

If you have a larger facility, you may need to purchase additional hardware such as multiple barcode scanners, which will cause the price to go up. In addition, if your facility will need to create and scan millions of barcodes, you will need to upgrade the program so it can handle that much work. This would significantly increase the costs of implementation.

Offsetting the Costs

While no facility likes to spend a lot of money on new software and equipment, it is very likely that having a barcoding system implemented will more than pay for itself. This is because it will reduce the amount of time it takes for employees to find items, reduce the number of lost or stolen goods, and speed up the workflow process. In the vast majority of situations, facilities will find that implementing a barcoding system will more than pay for the expenses associated with it.

Of course, it is important to make sure that you get as much out of the barcoding system as you can to maximize your return on investment. This may mean choosing the right barcode software, hardware, and backend equipment. When done properly, you will find that the costs of a barcoding system are insignificant compared to the benefits you receive.