[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 admin_label=\u201dsection\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201dKey Takeaways Section\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||0px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||0px||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text admin_label=\u201dKey Takeaways\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||20px||false|false\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n
Choosing the right barcode type and using it consistently drives faster picking, real-time visibility, and fewer errors across the entire warehouse.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Whether products arrive with barcodes, need to be labeled, or require multiple supplier barcodes, clear processes ensure your data stays clean and reliable.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=\u201d4.27.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201drow\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 background_size=\u201dinitial\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_repeat=\u201drepeat\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding__hover=\u201d|||\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n
Warehouse barcoding is one of the simplest ways to bring order, accuracy, and confidence into your daily operations. When every item and location has a clear, scannable identity, your warehouse becomes easier to manage and far less prone to costly mistakes.<\/p>\n
Whether you are just getting started with warehouse barcoding or you already have experience and want to tighten your processes, this guide is designed for you. Here you will find practical actions you can apply immediately in your own warehouse.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat is a barcode and how does it work in a warehouse?\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n
A barcode is a machine-readable label (usually a series of vertical lines or a QR code) that stores key information about whatever it\u2019s attached to. In a warehouse, that\u2019s typically a product, a bin location, or a shipment.<\/p>\n
Barcodes act like digital IDs. When scanned with a mobile device, they tell your warehouse management system (WMS) exactly what the item is, where it is, and what needs to happen next. For example, scanning a product during goods-in confirms receipt and assigns it a location. Scanning a pick bin during fulfillment ensures the right item is being picked.<\/p>\n
In the Descartes Peoplevox WMS<\/a>, barcodes power nearly every workflow: receiving, putaway, replenishment, picking, packing, and returns. They\u2019re the foundation of warehouse accuracy and real-time inventory visibility.<\/p>\n When this foundation is in place, mis-picks and mis-ships become far less common, and your team can move faster with confidence.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dWhat type of barcode should you use?\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Warehouse barcoding uses different formats, known as symbologies, which define how information is encoded into bars and spaces. In warehouse management systems for ecommerce brands, there are typically three main barcode types to choose from: EAN-13, Code 128, and Code 39.<\/p>\n Selecting the right barcode type helps ensure scanning remains fast, reliable, and compatible with your broader supply chain. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dGuide to selecting the right barcode type\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/guide-to-help-you-select-the-most-appropriate-barcode-type.png\u201d alt=\u201dGraphic depicting a guide to selecting the most appropriate warehouse barcode type\u201d title_text=\u201dguide-to-help-you-select-the-most-appropriate-barcode-type\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d3_5,2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||20px||false|false\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_heading title=\u201dEAN-13\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Description:<\/strong> What it supports:<\/strong> When to use it:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/EAN-13-Barcode.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dExample of an EAN-13 warehouse barcode\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d3_5,2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||20px||false|false\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_heading title=\u201dCode 128\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d6px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Description:<\/strong> What it supports:<\/strong> When to use it:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/code_128_barcode.webp\u201d alt=\u201dExample of Code-128 warehouse barcode\u201d title_text=\u201dcode_128_barcode\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d3_5,2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d hover_enabled=\u201d0\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||20px||false|false\u201d sticky_enabled=\u201d0\u2033][et_pb_column type=\u201d3_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_heading title=\u201dCode 39\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Description:<\/strong> What it supports:<\/strong> When to use it:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d2_5\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/code_39_barcode.webp\u201d alt=\u201dExample of Code-39 warehouse barcode\u201d title_text=\u201dcode_39_barcode\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201drow\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 background_size=\u201dinitial\u201d background_position=\u201dtop_left\u201d background_repeat=\u201drepeat\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.16\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding__hover=\u201d|||\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Not sure which barcoding system is best for your ecommerce warehouse? Request a demo<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dHow to get started with warehouse barcoding\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d|0px|||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d|0px|||false|false\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/no-more-mis-ships.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dWarehouse barcoding with labels on individual bins\u201d title_text=\u201dno-more-mis-ships\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n To keep your warehouse running smoothly, each item code or SKU needs its own unique barcode. Depending on how your operation is set up today, you may fall into one or more of the scenarios below.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dItems already barcode-labeled and recorded in your database\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n This is the ideal scenario. Your product database is complete and ready to be imported directly into a warehouse management system. Once imported, your warehouse can begin scanning immediately without additional setup.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dItems barcode-labeled but not recorded in your database\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n If your items already have barcodes but those barcodes are not stored in your product database, you will need to capture them.<\/p>\n Start by asking your suppliers for the SKU or item codes along with the assigned barcodes. Export your product database to an Excel file, then use a barcode scanner to input the barcode data. Once complete, re-import the updated file into the WMS to keep your system and physical inventory aligned.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dItems not barcode-labeled but barcodes exist in your database\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n In this case, your system has the data but the physical items do not have labels. You will need to print and apply barcode labels before those items move through the warehouse.<\/p>\n Import your product database into your WMS and use the system to generate and print the required barcode labels. Applying these labels ensures items can be scanned accurately during picking, packing, and stock movements.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dItems without barcodes in your database or on the items\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Your next steps depend on how your business operates.<\/p>\n If you manufacture the items or own the brand:<\/strong> If you resell items and do not own the brand:<\/strong> If you import items and do not sell to retailers:<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dMultiple products sharing the same barcode\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n This situation usually occurs due to supplier error. Each unique product needs its own barcode to be tracked accurately.<\/p>\n If this happens, ask your supplier to correct the issue or apply new barcodes when the goods arrive at your warehouse. Resolving this early prevents inventory confusion later.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dSingle items with multiple barcodes\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Some items may arrive with different barcodes because you source them from multiple suppliers. Here\u2019s how Peoplevox can help you handle this scenario.<\/p>\n To manage multiple barcodes for one item:<\/p>\n Go to the Items tab in the Warehouse module<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Select the item and click View<\/p>\n<\/li>\n In the Edit item dialog, click Edit, then Suppliers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Enter the alternative barcode as a Manufacturer item number for each supplier<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Click OK and Save<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n If you manage many items like this, importing an Item type suppliers file can save time and reduce manual work.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Not sure how to organize your warehouse barcoding? Request a demo<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dIs warehouse barcoding worth it?\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh2\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/www.peoplevox.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/warehouse-bins.webp\u201d alt=\u201dAn aisle of warehouse bins labeled with a barcoding system\u201d title_text=\u201dwarehouse bins\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Implementing a warehouse barcoding system may seem intimidating, especially if you still use paper-based processes. However, the time and effort quickly pay off in operational cost savings and increased efficiency. Here are some business results achieved by Descartes customers who implemented warehouse barcoding with Peoplevox WMS<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dEnhanced accuracy and fewer errors\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Barcodes remove manual data entry from your workflows. Instead of typing product codes or quantities, your team scans items to record information instantly. This reduces errors, improves inventory confidence, and helps ensure orders are fulfilled correctly.<\/p>\n DISSH <\/strong><\/a>reduced mispicks dramatically by using barcode scanning at every fulfillment stage. The result? A 45% increase in outbound fulfillment productivity and near-perfect accuracy on every order.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n BraForMe <\/strong><\/a>achieved 100% picking accuracy after implementing scan-driven picking and packing workflows. This ensured marketplace compliance and kept inventory perfectly in sync across all channels.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=\u201dFaster operations and higher efficiency\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.27.5\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Scanning is significantly faster than manual processes. Receiving, picking, and stock counts all happen more quickly, allowing you to move more volume without increasing headcount.<\/p>\n Goodfair <\/strong><\/a>increased daily shipments from 200 to as many as 1,600 orders after going live with Peoplevox. The switch from paper to scan-based workflows drove a 700% boost in fulfillment speed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
A standard retail barcode used globally. \u00a0It consists of a country code, company prefix, product number, and a final check digit. Scanners can look up product information, like price and stock.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
Consumer-facing retail products.<\/p>\n
If your products are sold through retail channels, EAN-13 is the correct choice.<\/p>\n
A very high-density barcode symbology.<\/p>\n
Full ANSI character support, including numbers, upper- and lowercase letters, and special characters.<\/p>\n
Choose Code 128 if your item codes or SKUs are complex or include special characters.<\/p>\n
A variable-length barcode symbology.<\/p>\n
Uppercase letters A\u2013Z and numbers 0\u20139.<\/p>\n
Use Code 39 for simple item codes. Avoid it if your SKUs include special characters or lowercase letters.<\/p>\n
Register with GS1, the global authority for barcodes, and assign EAN-13 barcodes to your products. This ensures your items are correctly labelled for retail and downstream supply chains.<\/p>\n
Request the EAN-13 retail barcodes from the manufacturer. If that is not possible, you may need to assign your own barcodes. In this case, coordinate carefully with any retailers you supply to avoid barcode conflicts.<\/p>\n
You have more flexibility. Many warehouses use their SKU number as the barcode. Be mindful of potential issues such as duplicate SKUs or codes longer than 15 characters, which may not fit on labels.<\/p>\n\n
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