5 Top-Rated Industrial Barcode Printers in Review

When buying the best industrial barcode printers, you must have information about their reviews when you need to buy a good one within a given market. Through the reviews, you will know what to look for as features go in terms of some of the top barcode printers with industrial-grade technology. Here is a review of the top five industrial barcode printers currently leading the market today.

1. Datamax M-Class Mark II Barcode Printer

The Datamax M-Clas Mark II barcode printer is an exceptional industrial printer that you can buy when planning to buy one. It has smaller footprint that makes it ideal for users looking for powerful industrial printers with space limitations. The M-Class 4206 printer from Datamax is a perfect solution for healthcare, logistics, and warehouse or retail applications. Its modular design makes the maintenance and replacement of parts easy since it has a flexible design that allows for a wide of options when using it.

When using it, you will have an increased productivity that makes it one of the best industrial barcode printers when you compare to other models available for sale.

2. Zebra 110Xi4 Industrial Barcode Printer

This Zebra 110Xi4 Industrial Barcode Printer is one of the highly rated printers that you can buy when you want a perfect one during your purchase. Some of its features will definitely makes it excellent is its ability to handle everything that ranges from paper to tag stocks and specialty label when using it.

When using it, you can easily change it from one given label media the other. With a consistently high quality print, you will get a range of thicknesses when you need these amazing deals well. It has tiny component labels, compliance labels, and wide-web (such as chemical drum) labels, which makes it excellent when you need a good printer during your purchase.

3. Zebra 140Xi4 Industrial Barcode Printer

These Zebra 140Xi4 printers can easily maintain pace with the high-volume production line. When using them, you will get a 14"/356 mm-per-one-second print in terms of speeds thus providing one of the top technologies on the market. You will improve productivity in the batch printing with the print-and-apply lines.

When you buy them, you will have a fast processing to improve your productivity. This printer has a powerful memory that can stores more fonts, label formats, and graphics. It also compatible with most Zebra industrial barcode readers and scanners.

4. The Zebra 105SLPlus II Industrial Barcode Printer

This Zebra 105SLPlus II Industrial Barcode Printer will provide you an icon-based with a multilingual graphical LCD interface. When using it, you will be able to minimize user training thus making the printing process faster and simpler. It is also durable when compared to other models that you can easily get in the market during your purchase.

5. Zebra 170Xi4 Industrial Barcode Printer

The Zebra 170Xi4 Industrial Barcode Printer can help you improve your pace when working with a high-volume production line. As one of the leading industrial printers from Zebra, has a fast processing ability to increase your productivity. With its durable printhead mechanism, you will deliver an outstanding print quality when using it at the same time reducing downtime for the printhead replacement.

In conclusion, the above is a review of the top five industrial barcode printers that you can choose when buying them from a given market.

Strapping Machines: Breaking Apart Today's Strapper Technology

The most important job of a strapping machine is to ensure that users deliver goods to their customers safely. By not selecting the right strapping machine, no matter how effective your quality control is, if the product doesn’t get packed properly, then it won’t satisfy the customers need.

This article is intended to offer insight on various forms of strapper technology and how to get the perfect strapping machine specially designed for your application. But first let’s clear the confusion that exists between semi-automatic strapping machines and automatic strapping machines. These two are the basic types of strapping machines for sale, but we there are also other types that you will find on the market.

Automatic vs. Semi-Automatic Strapping Machines

• Semi-automatic strapping machines: Semi-automatic strapping machines are ideal for low volume operations, backups or offline strapping. They are not very long, and their typical size is that of a small desk. Unlike the fully ones the semi- automatic strapping machines requires an operator, where he or she picks the loose end of a strap fed on the machine, and using his hand loops it around the package and feeds it to the other end of the sealing area. The machine then tensions the strap as per set tension.
• Fully automatic strapping machines: Unlike the semi-automatic they do not require an operator, they allow hand free operation and the operation of strap process is usually by a foot pedal, or a push button a little bit pricier that semi ones. They are high-performance machines ideal for heavy duty use and the strapping time on them can be less than 3 sec.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Strapping Machine

There a wide range of features in today's semi-auto and automatic strapping machines for sale on the market. Some of the primary features you'll want to consider include:

• 1. Auto feed: without having this feature, strapping a package can be extremely difficult. But sometimes you do not need it if you are changing your coils ever month, but if you are doing it each and every day, then do not overlook this important feature.
• 2. Loop Ejection: Loop ejects feature increase reliability and the production continuity. Without it, you will have to re-set the machine manually if there is any jam. If you have high volume operation this a feature that shouldn’t be overlooked.
• 3. Size: it is important to size your strapping machine according to your package volume. It would be very wise and less costly if you choose the semi-automatic machine when performing low-volume operations. The semi automatic strapping machine might also prove valuable in the event of your fully automatic machine is down or jammed.
• 4. Strap type:- Just like any other industrial equipment, a strapper requires a certain amount of maintenance. So make sure you use a good strap, one that is consistency in width and the gauge and one that has minimal curves. I find many machines problem resulting from the type of strap in usage.

There are other features like the strapping speed, the power supply and consumption and the strap width, thickness and length, all that should not be ignored.

There are huge selections of strapping machines currently on the market, some of the very brand new and some comes as second hand. Some people prefer going for the second hand because of the price factor, and if you decide to own a second hand strapping machine make sure it’s refurbished and fully working and, if possible, find one with parts and labor warranty.

If you use the above checkpoints when selecting the right strapping machine, you will definitely get encouraging feedback from satisfied customers.

Top 3PL Software Solutions in Review

Third party logistics (3PL) providers rely on advanced software platforms to manage all aspects of their clients' supply chains. From streamlining communications to keep track of inventory, 3PL software is vital tool for success in managing logistics.

There are constant new advancements in today's 3PL software platforms. Whether you're looking to upgrade your existing system or introduce a new platform for your logistics operations, below are three top 3PL software solutions designed for advanced 3PL's and in-house supply chain managers alike.

3PLink

This 3PL software is designed specifically to optimize how third-party logistics service providers operate. 3PLink is a Warehouse Management System (WMS), which is fully automated and can help to increase productivity, responsiveness, reliability, and accuracy.

With clients’ web visibility security 24/7, wireless scanning or EDI, and automated reporting, customers are guaranteed satisfaction, as it also leads to top quality power with a quick Return on Investment (ROI). With this kind of software, you can add new technology and buy what is needed today as your client base demands.

3PLink has been a market leader software since 1987 and continues to use cutting-edge technologies in order to help companies increase accuracy, reliability, and productivity.

Benefits of 3PLink 3PL Software

• This software is user friendly, fast in operation, and very easy to learn.
• Customer response and service is excellent.
• It can help you to design or configure reports hence making your customers happy, as these reports are custom designed just for their specific needs.
• It is also robust in configuration options.
• It can guarantee satisfaction on the part of customers by offering automated reporting, wireless scanning, and KPI dashboards.

Slingshot Enterprise Business Suite Software

Slingshot 3PL software offers resource planning solutions to small and big businesses. Slingshot software offers a good supply chain planning, forecasting, order fulfillment and the best breed procurement, supplier management, warehouse management and demand planning within the suite.

Apart from offering advanced technical applications to their customers, they also deliver their ERP software on the internet hence there is no need for additional programming or hardware, giving you constant access no matter where you are.

When you have Slingshot software, it can accelerate communication between you and your suppliers, decrease error caused because of manual entry, and increases your procurement options.

Benefits of Slingshot Enterprise 3PL Software

• The software is flexible and can adjust to fit your needs.
• Apart from having a cloud-based deployment, Slingshot is also scalable.
• Has a friendly user interface, which is easy to use.
• It can help you define time, resource needed, and deliverables for proper deployment.

Infor Supply Chain Management Software

Infor Supply Chain Management software is designed to help businesses by optimizing their supply chain. The software platform can be applied to demand planning, strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, sales planning, manufacturing planning, and operation planning.

With analytics from Infor SCM’s core, it can help companies or organizations to gain greater visibility on every aspect of supply chain ranging from scheduling and focusing to planning and execution.

Benefits of 3PLink 3PL Software

• Infor SCM can help you improve shipping and inventory operations.
• Can help companies optimize labor and resource utilization.
• With this software you can improve both internal and external communications. External communication includes customers, suppliers, and partners.
• It can help organizations develop the ideal network for their supply chain that can meet their current needs.
• The software is also designed to improve worldwide supply chain collaboration.
• It allows companies to respond quickly and effectively to the market’s fluctuations.

Therefore, in order to use the 3PL software you need to understand the requirements for your business, have the product in-depth demonstration in order to determine the software capabilities and domain expertise of the vendor.

3 Trusted Names in Sorting Machines & Sortation System Technology

Over the last few years, running a large business successfully has become increasingly difficult due to the increased competition, rising labor costs and the growing demand for more accurate and responsive operations. As result many manufacturing and warehousing operations have embraced unique forms of automation technology to become more cost-efficient.

This has inspired companies to integrated automated sortation systems and technology to help improve throughput capacity, productivity, efficiency, accountability, and accuracy while also ensuring a cost-effective flow of good to the consumers.

If you are looking to automate your business operations, the following companies are the leading manufacturers and producers of sortation systems and sorting technology that you should consider.

Cornerstone Automation Systems (CASI) - Custom Sortation Systems

Cornerstone Automation Systems (or CASI) is a USA based company that offers tailor-made solutions to meet its clients unique business needs with an aim of providing real returns. The company offers businesses with an extensive range of solutions that range from warehouse software and controls to the state of the art dispensers and sortation systems and 24V DC conveyor. CASI sortation systems are designed with a plug and play modular design, which enables easy redeployment reducing implementation time and hiccups at the site.

The CASI systems are built for large cases, mailers, parcels and item level sortation applications with various automation needs that include zone routing, carrier sort, reject systems and sort-to-order among others. You invest in CASI's sorting machines and sortation systems at WalzEQ.com, a national supplier of CASI in the U.S.

The sortation solutions by Cornerstone Automation Systems are highly configured to meet the client requirements and come tied together with a conveyor, controls, and software. The sortation solutions by CASI include pop up sortation, overhead sorters, and pushers and diverts, high-speed sort, item sorters and merge conveyor.

Learn more about the sortation systems offered by CASI, a leading manufacturer in the industry.

Dematic - Innovative Sortation Solutions

Dematic is a highly innovative global leader offering a wide range of logistics and material handling solutions to businesses with an aim of improving quality and efficiency in order to gain a competitive edge. The company is largely celebrated for developing sortation systems with standardized controls and software for the leading parcel freight companies, retailers, and distributors that optimize operations.

The Dematic sortation solutions are designed to handle an extensive range of products with high throughput capability. The sortation solutions by Dematic include circular sorters, linear sorters, hanging garment sorter, pouch sortation and divert systems.

Visit the official site of Dematic to learn more about their sorting systems.

Beumer Group - Intralogistics Sorting Systems

Beumer Group is a highly successful manufacturer of intralogistics solutions in the line of loading, conveying, packaging, palletizing, sorting, loading and distribution technology. The company together with the India’s Enexco Teknologies employs over 4,000 professionals with an aim of providing solutions for long-term success. The company over the years has been able to design sortation equipment and software that are critical components in today’s highly sophisticated and competitive market.

The sortation solutions by Beumer Group helps to improve throughput, efficiency, and productivity in wide business applications that include postal and courier, clothing and footwear, food market industry, mail order companies and newspaper distribution companies.

The company can also design and manufacture sortation and automation systems for industries with extreme variation in product types, frictional behavior and shapes such as the baggage handling solutions for freight centers and airports. The popular sortation solutions by Beumer include the belt tray sorter and the crisplant LS–4000CB cross-belt sorter. The belt sorter helps sort items efficiently and gently irrespective of shape, size or surface characteristics of the items.

See the official site of Beumer Group for more info.

Neopost USA's neoShip Software Streamlines Shipping & Receiving Operations

Shipping and receiving operations have long faced challenges as a result of growing cost and changing rules. Today, Neopost USA has a solution for all businesses and individuals who would love to mainstream the process by making it efficient and cost-effective. They achieve this with the advent of neoShip, one of the most advanced mailing management software solutions for shipping and receiving.

Over the years, Neopost USA has played an instrumental role in providing mailing solutions, shipping services as well as digital communications to people across the 31 countries in which they operate from. Their mission is to connect and help further interactions regardless of the distance. But they do it in a new and innovative way, thanks to the age of multi-channel communication which provides room for speedy delivery and response.

neoShip Software Overview

The Neopost neoShip software platform offers a holistic solution when it comes to shipping all types of packages. It can actually be accessed from a desktop computer by logging into MyNeopost online account. The process should end with a creation of a USPS compliant shipping label. It is as follows:

(a) You will choose your package type and its weight
(b) Fill in the destination shipping address
(c) Choose the date in which you want it delivered, rate and perhaps some extra USPS services
(d) Print the shipping label so it can be affixed on the package

neoShip Software Features

USPS extra services include signature confirmation, parcel tracking, return receipt, electronic return receipt, adult signature-restricted delivery, and many more. With such features, you also expect the software to provide free web-tracking capabilities, address verification, postage refunds, pickup requests and canceled shipment. These features make it convenient to use the platform when shipping a parcel.

neoShip software is a revolutionary piece that will change how people deliver items through shipping. Below are just a few features that provide the advantages and edge that most logistics business, mailing divisions, and shipping and receiving operations demand.

• Save money with commercial base pricing - When you use their two products -- Prior mail and Prior mail express, you will enjoy huge discounts, whether you're shipping a single package or multiple of them.
• Save time - Through its powerful built-in features, you can process all your mail and packages efficiently, thus helping you cut down on your trips to the post office.
• Printing your shipping labels - Using an inkjet printer, laser printer, or a Neopost's thermal label printer, you can actually enjoy the kind of convenience and flexibility never seen anywhere before.
• Ability to track your package and work with detailed reports - Ideal with most bulk mailing machines, you can confidently track your parcel each step of the way until it arrives at its intended destination. You can also create detailed reports guided by your shipping history and transactions.
• The free address corrector - Even if there's a mistake on the 'ship-to' address and you didn't realize it, the platform will automatically correct it for you so your parcel doesn't have to end nowhere or in the wrong hands.
• The free insurance on all mail - Both priority mail and priority mail express products have free insurance you can take advantage of. Priority mail has an insurance value of up to $50 while Priority mail express has $100 attached to it. 

As long as you're using a Windows PC computer coupled with a compatible printer, you should be able to comfortably take advantage of the service. As the perfect complement to support high-volume shipping warehouses and small mailing operations alike, neoShip from Neopost USA is one of the fastest and most efficient way to send packages across the globe.

Supply Chain Automation Technology: 5 Systems Revolutionizing The Logistics Industry

The technology used for warehouse distribution and order fulfillment is constantly changing. With such a demanding and challenging business model, it is important that today’s technology matches the needs of the business, workers, and the customers. Here are five innovative advancements in technology which includes the areas of in-motion cubing systems, automated checkweigher systems, cold seal packaging systems, RFID tags, and autofulfillment.

In-motion Cubing Systems

In-motion cubing systems are extremely important to the warehouse and shipping business as they determine the weight, volume, and dimensions of shipping packages. An advancement to this area are the in motion cubing systems from Walz. This innovative system specializes in dimensional scanning and weighing, which is ideal for conveyors.

Walz solutions are some of leading dimensioning system products in this area because they have experience with over hundreds of in-motion cubing systems all across the world. There are options for dynamic conveyor belts as well as static weighing, scanning, and labeling. The Walz in-motion package scanner is of the top cubing systems for conveyors. The system measures every item to determine the dimensional size and weight.

Automated Checkweighers

The second advancement in technology is in the automated checkweigher systems. This innovation is also from Wakz. The Walz checkweigher systems offer extreme precision when it comes to scaling.

This is an advancement because it is a far better system than the traditional load cells. There is also a food and drink option that comes with the ability to choose a metal detection. The checkweigher systems under the Walz umbrella also have extremely fast services which makes their systems more leading edge than the others.

Cold Seal Packaging

The third advancement in technology is in the cold seal packaging systems. One of the leading brands in this category is WalzEQ's cold seal packaging machines. This system has several specifications that are above the other cold seal packaging systems. One specification is a touch screen, which allows operators to make easier adjustments.

The Walz cold seal packaging machine has the material for the sealing head where both rolls form the protective pouch. Another is that the machine uses two Rolls of cold seal material that makes the pouch. In terms of the sealing head, the systems does the length cut and end seals all at once. The length for the products is also unlimited for feed models.

RFID Tags

The fourth advancement in technology is the RFID tags. Before the RFID tags were invented, monthly inventory counting was laborious. Each and every product total had to be counted and entered in manually. The RFID tags are barcodes that allow products to be scanned. This is a great innovation as it increases the accuracy and cuts down on time.

Autofulfillment Machines

The final advancement in technology is the autofulfillment machines. These machines combine with prior warehouse machines to pull paperwork once an LPN or SKU has been scanned in. With technology changing every day, these five innovations may soon be a thing of the past as more and more logistic warehouses start implement new and advanced technology into their supply chain management operations.

Walz Cube: New Dimensioning & Cubing System from Walz Scale

Are you in the retail business or provide warehousing and distribution solutions? Perhaps you run an online store that ships purchases to customers on a daily basis? If your business is involved in shipping packages, you already know how astronomical shipping fees can be.

Shipping costs have long been solely calculated based on weight. However, with rising costs of fuel and other factors, charging by weight only has become unprofitable for mail and freight carriers since lightweight and low density packages tend to take up as much room in cargo carriers like ships, airplanes and trucks. So, freight companies have gone to using dimensioning systems to calculate and charge by dimensions rather than solely on weight or volume.

A dimensioning system (sometimes called a cubing system) uses a measuring process that measures the cubic space an object occupies. This method calculates the dimensional weight a package or object uses. This information is then used to calculate the cost of handling, storage and transporting of the object.

Features of Walz Cube 

Walz has brought new technology to customers searching for a dimensioning system to capture weight and dimensional data for the packages they ship. The Walz Cube is a new cubing and dimensioning system has changed the way businesses manage their shipping process by giving them the dimensional and weight data they need to ship via major carriers.

Below are a few of the exciting components and features the new Walz cubing system offers:

• Dimensional and weight software for PCs
• DHL and TNT Plug-in
• On Demand Plug-in Feature for the UPS, DHL, FedEx, and TNT Online systems
• Standard Data Transfer
• Affordability

A Revolutionary Dimensioning & Cubing

The revolutionary cubing system from Walz also boasts:

• Real-time data transfer
• PC client data transfer
• Constructed of 5 mm aluminum for long-lasting use
• Plug-in to third party transport booking systems online
• USB power supply that can be used on mobile cart as a mobile device

The Walz dimensioning system can also provide:

• Data management: The dimensioning system can measure dimensions, volume, weight and volume weight.
• Definable dim factors by the user
• Allows users to save their data as a .csv file
• Provides internal AUTO calibration for both volume and weight
• Provides users with counting pieces for totalization of the counting data

Seamless System Integration

Integration of standard data transfer into ERP or WMS has been an expensive challenge in the past, but the Walz cubing system has made it a standard feature.

The Walz Cube dimensioning system can also be used as a stand-alone system. Whether you choose to use it on a table or integrate it into a conveyor system. It’s your choice!

If shipping costs are a factor in your business, you can’t afford to be without a dimensioning system. Why not make sure that you have the best in the business?