Tips and Hints: Is Your Warehouse Cyber Monday Ready?

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The U.S. Postal Service shipped approximately 900 million packages during the 2018 holiday season. Other delivery services such as UPS reported shipping 100,000 packages a day, 1,700 packages a minute. With more purchases coming from online shopping, Cyber Monday alone brought as much as $7.9 billion in profits in 2018. This year, Adobe Analytics predicts a $1.58 billion increase in Cyber Monday shopping. To make matters even more complex, Cyber Monday falls one week closer to major holidays (Dec. 2), expediting deliveries as the holidays draw closer. For these reasons and more, retailers across the nation expect another record-breaking profit increase this year.

Although large numbers may seem comforting, it’s important to remember that even a small error percentage can result in a million-dollar loss. For example, a 1% error rate in 2018 could have impacted nearly 800,000 packages. As leaders of warehouse optimization, Avalon Integration provides all the tips and hints needed to keep your operations running smoothly throughout the most confusing time of the year.

Start your operation with the right labels

Zebra Labels on Dancer Assembly

Zebra Labels Properly Aligned on the Dancer Assembly

Before ever seeing the loading dock, inventory must first be properly labeled in order to successfully reach the correct destination. While small, your labeling system dictates:

  • Shipment accuracy
  • Courier route
  • Inventory contents
  • Handling instructions
  • Customer tracking updates
Zebra Labels on Dancer Assembly

Zebra Labels on Dancer Assembly

Simply put, your labels can directly affect customer satisfaction. Consequently, Avalon recommends securing profits with Zebra Certified consumables. Engineered with pretested materials, Zebra’s rugged labels and tags endure the most rigorous application processes and harsh environments, keeping your label information fully legible while also reducing common printing hazards.

  • Eliminate harmful coating friction – Tested through a 23-point inspection, Zebra labels have a smooth coating that reduces printhead friction, minimizing downtime due to printhead failure.
  • Minimize label slack – Because they’re wound outwardly, Zebra labels eliminate slack that, when left unchecked, could cause printer-jams and slow production.
  • Lower maintenance expenses – By feeding your printer Zebra Certified labels exclusively, you may become eligible for free printhead replacements through the Printhead Protection Program.

Get an up-close look at how Zebra’s Certified labels enhance productivity in our video:

With forty days left until Cyber Monday, the time to start optimizing crucial systems is now. Contact us today for an in-depth assessment of your current workflow patterns and integrate durable technology crafted for enterprise success.

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The Versatile Future is Here: See How the TC57 Fits Your Dynamic Workflow

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On June 19th, 2018, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued its 10 millionth patent, testifying a nation’s commitment to innovation and technological advancements. From the overarching internet to self-driving cars, technology has advanced to deliver innovation to virtually every industry worldwide — all in less than 30 years. Facing what’s been coined as the 4th Industrial Revolution, Avalon Integration has partnered with Zebra Technologies to provide groundbreaking technology that shatters through pre-established industry boundaries.

Here to set an unparalleled standard, the TC57 fits multiple use cases, serving as one of the most versatile devices in the industrial market to date. Adaptable form the inside out, this all-touch computer continuously increases productivity in and out of the four walls, which begs the question…where does it fit? 

Where in the World is the TC57?

Equipped with rugged ergonomics and an intuitive platform, the TC57 can be integrated into almost any dynamic workflow with minimal infrastructure changes, streamlining operations in…

  • Extreme Conditions — Sporting military-grade durability, the TC57 is equipped with a rugged exterior that endures harsh temperatures, humidity, and drops up to 6ft. Zebra’s fortified Android delivers the ultimate processing power while securing OS updates that future-proof your device. Lastly, it’s best-in-class 5 in. display delivers maximized readability perfect for graphic-intensive applications in any lighting condition. Protected with Corning Gorilla Glass, the glove-friendly touchscreen remains fully operational when wet.

    TC57 Extreme Conditions Workflow

    TC57 Extreme Conditions Workflow

  • In Remote Places — Supporting carrier aggregation, the TC57 ensures network connectivity through multiple networking channels.  With WorryFree WiFi, devices can stay connected and running during your on-the-move operations.

    TC57 Remote Places Workflow

    TC57 Remote Places Workflow

  • In Overwhelming Landscapes — Supply chains have become increasingly more dynamic in and out of the warehouse. Running on an open ecosystem, the TC57 gathers Zebra’s best Mobility DNA applications as well as long-range data capture to maximize productivity. Capture barcodes multiple barcodes as far as 70ft with one trigger-pull and omnidirectional scanning.

    TC57 Overwhelming Landscapes Workflow

    TC57 Overwhelming Landscapes Workflow

And with Avalon Integration, integrating the latest upgrades in mobile computing is seamless and affordable. From now till December 31st, upgrade your technology with the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Get cash-back rebates when you swap out legacy devices from any manufacturer for the newest generation of efficient technology.

Technology is advancing fast, and the TC57 is just one of many next-evolution devices available. Navigate through a new landscape of opportunities when you contact us for more information on how the TC57 and other devices can innovate your production workflow.

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Bad Labels Mean Bad Business

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You have the best team. You have the best technology. You have the best clients, and we trust you have the best supply provider, but even the most efficient companies can suffer the monumental losses at the hands of the smallest team-players: inadequate labels.

To ensure our clients maximize their profits without compromising inventory tracking, Avalon Integration has partnered up with Zebra Technologies to bring you choice custom labels without shipping charges until December 31st, 2019. With our Free Ship Program, get Zebra certified labels designed by you for you and learn how to avoid bad labels that only damage your workforce.

Are You in Danger?

Zebra Certified Labels Compared to Third Party Labels

Zebra Certified Supplies Compared to Third Party Supplies

There are many signs that may suggest improper label supplies. By quickly recognizing them, you can pinpoint where to make upgrades and eliminate additional costs that usually follow bad labels.

  • Worn-out Printheads: because they don’t undergo vigorous testing or require enterprise compliance, inferior “bargain” labels often leave behind a trail of dust and debris with every run, slowly -but surely- damaging printheads and leading to reduced printer lifespan, surprise interruptions, and frequent inconvenient IT visits.   
  • Inefficient Tracking System: crinkling at the edges, smudging after printing, and ripping in harsh weather, the wrong label impairs your tracking system by distorting or erasing crucial information. In the long run, a small financial saving may contribute to increased confusion and stress in the warehouse. 
  • Unsatisfied Customers: from overdue deliveries to inaccurate prices, subpar labels hinder the customer’s experience, impacting profitability and brand awareness, consequences that could have detrimental long-term effects.

Because label usage is unique, these problems may not all affect one company, which is why customized supplies still stand as the wisest choice. Instead of replacing printers and tracking systems, replace bad labels before they affect irreplaceable assets, such as your employees and clients.

You already have the best of everything, so why not get the best of label technology? Protect your business from bad labels with the Free Ship Program, and get all the functionality of premium labels when you start your order with Avalon Integration.

Everyone Loves Free Ship with Avalon Integration

Download the Flyer and Learn More About Our Free Ship Program

Download flyer for more program details and qualifications

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Zebra’s Rugged Tablets – Made for the Wild

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Analysts at Inc. Magazine estimate that the average delivery driver can deliver close to 200 packages in an 8-hour shift, one package per 2 minutes and 24 seconds –breaks included. As the demand for same-day shipping and online retail grows, the estimate shrinks. Modern-day field services have become ever more complex as mobile workers face multiple obstacles throughout the day. Researchers at the Capgemini Consulting Group outline several issues facing field mobility, with the top three being:

  1. Escalating Fuel Costs
  2. Changing Business/Technology Practices
  3. Maintaining Customer Satisfaction

As the market evolves, Avalon Integration identifies the value of extending efficient organizational patterns in field service. Emphasizing connectivity, flexibility, and innovation, our mobility experts equip you with versatile tools that minimize stress. Simplifying field demands for over twenty years, we’re introducing Zebra’s Rugged Tablets as the foundation of next-generation mobility solutions —designed for wild challenges of field service.

Work with Technology that Works for You with Zebra’s Rugged Tablets

Committed to enterprise success, Avalon Integration makes sure new implementations streamline workflows efficiently. As a result, we’ve chosen Zebra’s Rugged Tablets as a user-friendly and innovative launchpad into optimized functionality.

Increased Connectivity with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Get Increased Connectivity with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Enhance customer satisfaction with increased connectivity — Track your workforce’s whereabouts and routes to better predict delivery times with the help of 802.11ac WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth, GPS, and 4G LTE mobile broadband technology. Plus, combine connectivity with data capture on Zebra’s XSLATE to update delivery logs on-the-fly.

Flexible Business Technology Practices with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Get Flexible Business Technology Practices with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Raise the bar with flexible business and technology practices — Operating through Zebra’s fortified Android OS, these rugged tablets secure uptime with faster onboarding and maximized security that expands the device lifecycle. Functional in three different models, Zebra’s Rugged Tablets fit your workforce’s usage needs. Lastly, further boost productivity with Zebra’s Mobility DNA applications, which allow you to manage devices remotely, conduct small repairs independently, and maximize connectivity all with a tap on your touchscreen.

Focus on What Matters with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Focus on What Matters with Zebra Rugged Tablets

Cut extraneous costs to focus on what matters — While Zebra’s Rugged Tablets can’t bring down gas prices, they can minimize repair costs with a durable IP65 sealing and military-grade design. Functional in extreme temperatures and altitudes, tablets reduce costly downtime from repairs and replacements, maximizing profits that can be allocated towards fuel and other important expenses. As always, Avalon facilitates upgrades through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Drive down upgrade costs when you trade in outdated devices from any manufacturer for a cash-back rebate towards your newest device.

Despite all its benefits, Zebra’s Rugged Tablets are only the start of mobility enhancement. From novel software to multi-functional peripherals, equip your mobile workforce with all the tools they need to overcome the challenges of field service with the utmost ease. Contact Avalon Integration today to create an end-to-end mobility solution based on your workforce’s greatest needs and bring productivity beyond the four walls.

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Tips and Hints: Minimize Wasted Labor One Bottleneck at a Time

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Newly collected data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showcases a steady increase in warehousing jobs across the nation, yet this follows equally increasing labor turnover rates, verified by multiple warehouses in Zebra Technology’s most recent Warehousing Vision Study. As a matter of fact, the labor shortage has been cited as one of the top four challenges facing warehouses today. In other words, quality labor is becoming scarcer, which means warehouses are now faced with the challenge to find and retain efficient employees in their facilities. 

Eliminate Repetitive Tasks and Improve Labor Efforts

Eliminate Repetitive Tasks and Improve Labor Efforts with Fanfold Labels from Zebra

Specialized in warehouse efficiency, Avalon Integration investigates new solutions that empower your workforce by eliminating repetitive tasks that waste time and devalue employees. While there are many efficient systems designed to optimize employee satisfaction, we’ve searched for small cost-effective solutions that fit into your warehouse without too many changes into your current infrastructure. 

A Little Change Goes a Long Way to Keep Your Labor Efforts at Optimal Performance

While the average warehousing salary nears $36,000, labor costs may reach as close as $50,000 per worker. Health benefits, recurring training, and re-hires are some of the indirect costs warehouses simply can’t eliminate. However, here are three simpler changes to consider adding to your workforce:

  1. Create better device availability through new organization patterns. From picking to shipping, your supply chain runs several dynamic workflows, each needing the same devices simultaneously. One way to maximize device availability is to centralize common devices, so your workers can reach them without traveling across the warehouse.
    Better Device Availability Through New Organization Patterns

    Better Device Availability Through New Organization Patterns

     

  2. Invest in familiar technology to reduce training times. While new workers may feel uncomfortable with enterprise-grade technology, you can lower training times with rugged devices that resemble consumer-grade technology. As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, we carefully pair your workforce with intuitive devices designed to lower training times, and consequently, your operational costs.

    Reduce Training Times with Intuitive Devices from Zebra

    Reduce Training Times with Intuitive Devices from Zebra

  3. Choose intelligent systems that free up your workforce. Repetitive tasks break your workforce’s concentration, so consider choosing devices that automate repetitive tasks while your workforce focuses on more important tasks. For example, Zebra’s pretested fanfold labels successfully eliminate the drudging task of manually counting individual labels by neatly delivering labels that can be counted at a glance.

    Zebra’s Pretested Fanfold Labels

    Free up Your Labor Workforce with Zebra’s Pretested Fanfold Labels

See These Three Tips in Action in Our Video

If small changes can greatly impact your workflow, what would be the effects of bigger implementations? Whether it be new tracking systems or technology upgrades, Avalon Integration has both the tools and expertise to help you keep your labor efforts at optimal performance. Contact us today to find warehousing solutions scaled to your needs.

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