Barcode and Label Printing for Retail Items

Barcode and Label Printing for Retail Items

Overview

This article walks through the complete workflow from barcode assignment to professional label production.




1. Setting Up Item Barcodes

1.1 Basic Barcode Assignment

  1. Navigate to: Home > Retail > Item

  2. Open the item record (e.g., "CM-1001 Coffee Mug")

  3. Locate the Barcode field in the item master

  4. Enter the UPC/EAN code manually or:

    • Scan using a connected barcode scanner

    • Import via spreadsheet


1.2 Unit of Measure (UOM) Specific Barcodes

For items sold in multiple pack sizes:


  1. In the item record, navigate to the Item Barcode table

  2. Add rows for each packaging variant:

    • Individual unit

    • Case pack

    • Pallet quantity

  3. Assign unique barcodes to each



2. Configuring Label Printing

2.1 Printer Setup

  1. Navigate to: Home > Retail > Hardware Profile

  2. Configure:

    • Printer type (thermal, laser, etc.)

    • Connection method (USB, network)

    • Label dimensions


2.2 Label Templates

Create reusable formats via:


  1. Home > Retail > Label Printing Settings

  2. Define:

    • Header/footer text

    • Barcode symbology (UPC-A, Code 128, etc.)

    • Product info fields (price, weight, etc.)



3. Printing Item Labels

3.1 Single Item Labels

  1. Navigate to: Home > Retail > Item Label Printing

  2. Click Add Label Printing

  3. Select:

    • Item(s) to label

    • Print format (predefined template)

    • Quantity of labels needed


3.2 Batch Printing

For mass label production:


  1. Use the Batch Label Generator

  2. Filter items by:

    • Category

    • Price range

    • Inventory status

  3. Preview before final print



4. Advanced Label Features

4.1 Variable Data Labels

Print labels containing:


  • Expiration dates for perishables

  • Batch numbers for traceability

  • Promotional pricing with end dates


4.2 Mobile Printing

Print directly from smartphones/tablets:


  1. Enable Mobile Label Printing in settings

  2. Scan items using device camera

  3. Print to Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connected printers



5. Best Practices

5.1 Barcode Quality Standards

  • Minimum size: 1.5" wide × 1" tall

  • Quiet zones: 0.25" clear space on sides

  • Verify readability with multiple scanners


5.2 Label Management

  • Version control for template changes

  • Regular audits of shelf vs. system labels

  • Color coding for different product types


5.3 Compliance Labeling

Ensure labels include:

  • Regulatory requirements

  • Safety information

  • Country-specific mandates



6. Troubleshooting

Here’s a quick look at some common issues you might run into.


6.1 Unreadable Barcodes

Solutions:


  • Increase contrast (black on white)

  • Adjust print density

  • Verify barcode symbology matches scanner capability


6.2 Misaligned Labels

Adjust:


  • Printer feed settings

  • Label template margins

  • Physical label roll positioning



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