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Reach out to Raymond: Why Can’t I Just Buy Cheap Labels?

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Labeling expenses don’t account for even 10% of operational costs, but nevertheless, they are essential to your supply chain. While seemingly unimportant, your labels can dictate whether or not your products make it past the loading dock since they carry crucial information such as delivery addresses, compliance standards, safety instruction, identification, and more. By choosing poorly made cheap labels, you run the risk of setting up operations for disaster. 

Portrait of Raymond Scipioni

Portrait of Raymond Scipioni

Simply put, operations screech to a halt without labels. If labels peel easily or smudge under heat or abrasion, crucial asset information is lost creating delays, bottlenecks, and out-of-stocks. All of these can lead to heavy fines, missed delivery dates, and loss of revenue. To prevent these issues, we recommend assessing your labeling operations.

How do I know my label is poorly made?

Poorly made labels often show tale-tell signs before application. Because they are not made with quality materials, nor are they tested before application, inferior labels tend to:

  • Leave behind residual fiber pileup, which clogs printers and distorts information.
  • Overwork or distort printheads, leading to premature printhead failure.
  • Leak adhesive from inconsistently manufactured rolls.
  • Fade under extreme temperatures and humidity.

If your labels present any of these signs and more, then it is time to switch to a better alternative.

How do I spot a good label?

Zebra Quality Labels Are Designed for Your Warehouse

Zebra Quality Labels Are Designed for Your Warehouse

Quality labels such as Zebra’s Certified Consumables should be made from quality materials that withstand both application and storage environments. Moreover, proper labels should be certified to meet compliance standards of whichever industry they will serve; otherwise, your inventory runs the risk of being sent back to the warehouse. Lastly, quality labels maximize your printer lifespan, reducing bottlenecks, printer downtime, and frequent IT visits.

Can I just buy the most popular label to resolve printing issues?

There is no one-size-fits-all labeling solution because the application and budget requirements vary greatly from business to business. There are also different compliance standards certain kinds of products (like food for example) need to follow.  Non-compliant labels can prevent or delay your product from reaching the consumer, forcing them to look elsewhere. For example, suppliers can pay fines up to $500 per late order or more from major retailers. Fortunately, Avalon offers Quality Compliany Zebra labels of all types, which gives you the ability to customize label composition, size, color, and many other factors to create a system that fits into your workflow.

Where can I find better labeling alternatives?

As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, we work with a wide variety of labeling solutions. Plus, with Zebra labels, you can work with us to create a cost-effective labeling system with both quality consumables, durable printers, and enterprise-grade scanners.

To start your labeling assessment, reach out to Raymond Scipioni and maximize your label’s efficiency with our vast portfolio of quality consumables, designed to meet your application requirements while exceeding your expectations.  

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Are You Working in a Dark Warehouse?

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E-commerce and the drive for personalization are adding to the complexity of today’s operations. Modern-day customers expect a unique shopping experience centered on their needs as well as faster delivery anytime and anywhere they desire. As a result, warehouses and distribution centers must adapt to meet demands. According to Zebra’s 2019 Warehousing Vision Study, 79% of organizations plan on expanding size within the next two years. Once devoid of large warehouses, bustling urban areas like New York City have seen an exponential rise in new warehouse leases as companies scramble to get closer to customers to provide better (and faster) service. As extreme as these efforts may sound, they all depend on a crucial factor: visibility.

Managing stock quantities, labor efficiency, and asset usage, visibility solutions such as RFID tracking, Internet of Things, and Blockchain can optimize your workflow. Implementing solutions like these and more for over twenty years, Avalon Integration has seen up close how greater operational intelligence changes businesses by:

  • Connecting disparate teams within your supply chain through accessible data
  • Providing trackable purchase and shipping patterns in and out of peak seasons
  • Delivering manageable collected data to create a more personalized customer experience
  • Reducing bottlenecks and inefficient labor through greater device availability

However, before experiencing any of these reliefs, one must start by identifying the warehouse’s dark spots.

Signs You’re Working the “Dark”

Dark Empty Warehouse Interior

Signs You’re Working in a Dark Warehouse

While every business is intrinsically unique, there are a few common consequences to the lack of transparent visibility which can suggest your workforce is operating in the dark.

  • Stocked inventory seems to be recurrently out of place or difficult to find, causing order fulfillment processes to stall.
  • Order accuracy is difficult to maintain as inventory is wrongly picked. Consequently, more inaccurate orders are returned, clogging up your reverse logistics processes.
  • Workers take too long to accomplish tasks either because of bottlenecks or missing crucial assets.
  • Necessary devices such as printers, scanners, and forklifts, are rarely located close to where they are most needed, increasing worker travel time.

Turn on the Light with Zebra RFID

Turn on the Light with Zebra RFID to help with a Dark Warehouse

Zebra’s next generation of RFID technology.

Out of the many locationing solutions available today, we are excited to recommend Zebra’s next generation of RFID technology as an enterprise-ready and efficient tracking solution. Maximizing visibility with rugged handheld scanners and high-accuracy antennas, Zebra RFID can track moving assets and inventory, empowering you with manageable and intelligent insight into your everyday operations.  

As a proud Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, Avalon Integration offers complete RFID solutions, from software implementation to testing, to maintenance. Integrate modernized visibility with:

  • Pretested rugged RFID labels
  • Adaptable RFID industrial printers
  • Highly ergonomic handheld readers
  • High-capacity reader antennas

It’s not too late to see these technologies in action. Contact us for an RFID demonstration at your convenience with our automation specialists to enhance your operations from the inside out.

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Can’t Wait for Modex? Explore RFID NOW!

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In less than a week, from March 9th through 12th, Avalon Integration will join over 900 technology experts in navigating through the modernized landscape of efficient supply chain systems at the Modex 2020 Tradeshow. While there are countless different technologies redefining operations, our innovation specialists explore RFID locationing in-depth as it enhances inventory management. Expanding visibility from door to dock, RFID improves order accuracy, a goal no operation can afford to overlook. 

With e-commerce complicating warehouse operations, achieving transparent inventory management has become complex yet necessary in order to remain competitive. Committed to optimizing operations, Avalon Integration investigates the unceasing importance of inventory accuracy and how RFID can help maximize transparency within the digital age.

Oversight that Leads to Insight

RFID Locationing Improves Accuracy

Learn More about RFID locationing when you visit us at Modex.

Out of the many solutions taking the warehousing industry by storm, RFID locationing has risen as a key strategy in improving accuracy. Precise and efficient, RFID can be used to:

  • Mitigate risks – Maximizing visibility, RFID allows you to pinpoint moving assets and purchase patterns, giving you insight into possible influxes, bottlenecks, and lulls within operations. 
  • Enhance customer experience – As one of the newest prime differentiators between online stores, customer service is closely tied to proper inventory management since customers cannot expect to purchase products that are unaccounted for or unavailable. RFID antennas and readers can track incoming inventory, allowing you to better manage in-stock items. 
  • Reduce product shrinkage – Whether due to theft or misplacement, product shrinkage drained over $50 billion in 2018.  Increased product visibility and tracking can minimize lost items while preventing shoplifting.
  • Manage storage space – Just as problematic as out-of-tocks, over-stocks can devalue your products while also occupying valuable storage space. By tracking how fast products are purchased/moved, you can avoid overstocking and better distribute warehousing space.

When considering RFID, Avalon recommends Zebra’s RFID technology for its durability, extended accuracy, and versatility. From long-range readers to rugged handheld scanners to pretested tags, Zebra’s RFID technology is engineered for dependable functionality in any environment.

How to Start?

As with any optimization strategy, RFID requires careful planning before outright deployment. Consider the following steps when beginning your RFID strategy:

  • Establish measurable goals using key performance indicators
  • Identify specific pain points to be addressed by your new solution
  • Certify all solution participants (operators, administrators, store associates, etc.) are on board with change
  • Verify tag and application requirements

See these steps in action in Zebra’s RFID Pilot Guide.

Get a closer look into the best RFID solutions on the market when you join us at booth #3607 at Modex 2020 or start building your solution today with our knowledgeable team of automation experts.

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How to Maximize ROI within Dynamic Supply Chains

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New dynamic supply chains can increase the probability of errors and inefficient labor as orders have become increasingly more complex and customers more demanding. Although online shopping is set to contribute trillions of dollars into the global economy, it has also contributed to a vast array of operational concerns such as:

  • Data security 
  • Lack of transparency in inventory and asset management
  • Undervalued and/or unskilled workforces 
  • Adaptability for future market shifts
  • Shipping speeds

Coupled with today’s high employee turnover, dynamic supply chains are redefining operational efficiency. As always, Avalon Integration is ready to help you in navigating through this new industrial landscape with enterprise-grade resources built to maximize ROI while addressing operational concerns. 

MC9300 can improve your Dynamic Supply Chains and Maximize ROI

The MC9300 from Zebra can improve your Dynamic Supply Chains and Maximize ROI

Where to Begin?

Since they occupy virtually every aspect of your warehouse operations, your handheld devices are an ideal place to begin enhancing worker productivity. Aware of today’s concerns, leading manufacturers like Zebra Technologies have developed a versatile portfolio of goal-focused technologies that enrich:

  • Supply Chain Connectivity – From manufacturers to distribution centers to delivery drivers, it takes a large team to properly handle inventory. However, the need for secured communication channels remains as vital as ever. Dependable devices such as the TC7X provide reliable connectivity even in the most remote areas thanks to several networking options (WiFi, Bluetooth locationing, GPS, Cellular LTE), so your entire team can stay updated of any changes before they hinder the workflow.
  • Inventory Management – While the two may seem far removed, proper inventory management can boost customer satisfaction since orders are processed and delivered more quickly. Happy customers become loyal customers, adding to your overall profitability. Minimizing surprise out-of-stocks, new RFID locationing technology such as Zebra’s readers, antennas, and rugged tags can verify received/shipped inventory to ensure it reaches the correct destination in time. Moreover, RFID tags further increase investment returns by eliminating the need for several barcodes.
  • Labor Productivity – With the current national unemployment rate and all-time low at 3.6%, warehouses have faced more challenges in hiring and retaining skilled laborers. By automating repetitive tasks such as data capture with user-friendly devices like the MC9300, your workforce can apply their skills into crucial tasks, maximizing productivity, and employee satisfaction.

Efficiency in Action

To see these solutions in action, catch live demonstrations, in-depth assessments, and unprecedented unveilings at the 2020 Modex Tradeshow, or skip the wait and contact us today for a free assessment of your current workflow.

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Go Green with RFID: See How RFID Technology Fits in the Sustainable Warehouse

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Within the past decade, new research and manufacturing policies have brought environmental concerns to the forefront of consumers’ attention. Results from the CGS 2019 U.S. Consumer Sustainability Survey show that 68% of today’s consumers see sustainability as a deciding factor in whether or not to purchase a product. In 2019, products labeled sustainable accounted for as much as $114 billion in revenue, a 29% increase compared to 2013. From product assembly to shipping methods, there are several ways companies can integrate sustainability into their supply chain. However, while it may be tempting for companies to label products as sustainable, the Federal Trade Commission deals heavy fines for misleading and/or inaccurate labels. 

In our commitment to both the environment and operational efficiency, Avalon Integration investigates new technologies and their benefits beyond the warehouse. Among these technologies, RFID tracking stands as one of the most promising resources in establishing sustainable practices with the supply chain. By providing true real-time visibility, RFID equips you with actionable intelligence into every detail of your operation to reduce environmental impact.

Creating the Green Warehouse, One Tag at a Time

MC3390R Green Sustainable Warehouse

MC3390R Being Used in a Sustainable Green Warehouse

Before choosing any particular RFID solution, it is important to consider tag composition and durability. Because they will face several sorts of environments even after application, RFID tags should be designed with strength in mind. Like is quality consumables, Zebra’s RFID tags are tested for continuous performance on a wide range of surfaces, so you do more than just can track more than inventory.

  • Manage inventory to prevent overstocking – A common issue in the retail industry, overproduction can lead to wastefulness and product depreciation. By managing processed goods in real-time, companies can regulate assembly speed to match the market demand.
  • Minimize unnecessary and inefficient transportation labor – Inaccurate orders require labor and money to rectify. RFID readers can verify loaded shipments to prevent unnecessary truck deliveries and additional CO2 emissions.
  • Implement additional policies with greater visibility – Since RFID technology can provide a full overview of warehouse activity, gathered intelligence can be used to pinpoint bottlenecks, extraneous energy usage, and wasted storage space.

But RFID isn’t the only technology revolutionizing supply chains. Catch an up-close look of 2020s most prominent technologies at MODEX 2020 and join Avalon in exploring the next generation of efficient technology. 

When it comes to lessening environmental impacts, small changes can go a long way. To see how RFID can enhance your operations, contact us for an in-depth assessment of your current workflow.

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RFID on Metal is Finally Here

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Since its inception in 1948, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has revolutionized tracking operations across multiple industries. Developed to identify ally and enemy aircrafts during World War II, RFID technology has no permeated in several industries. Tracking pharmaceutical specimens, warehouse stock deliveries, maintenance records, and everything else in between, today’s RFID labels have been optimized through the years to adapt to new application requirements, yet this insightful solution seems to constantly run into one nemesis: metal. 

Supplies ZT410 Labels RFID on Metal

Tackling on-metal applications with ease, Zebra’s new ZT400 RFID printers set a new standard in asset tracking with on-demand metal-friendly tags

From costly scanning equipment to manufactured inventory, warehouses face a challenge when it comes to labeling metal assets. Acting as a conductor, metal reflects RFID signals, hindering read performance. While regular paper-based barcodes may serve as a viable solution, Avalon Integration is proud to work alongside Zebra Technologies in implementing the next level of RFID efficiency. Tackling on-metal applications with ease, Zebra’s new ZT400 RFID printers set a new standard in asset tracking with on-demand metal-friendly tags. 

On-Demand Solutions for the On-Demand Market

RFID experts aim at extending these benefits to metal assets with the ZT411

RFID experts aim at extending these benefits with the ZT411

Integrated into retail, RFID tags have been reported to lower inventory shrinkage by nearly 55%. Equipping warehouses with the correct printer, reader, and scanner, our RFID experts aim at extending these benefits to metal assets with the ZT411. See how Zebra’s latest RFID printer maximizes visibility while lowering operational costs.

  • Tag crucial devices throughout the supply chain: Instead of only tagging inventory, metal-friendly RFID tags can track mobile computers, tablets, and other enterprise devices to prevent shortage and downtime.
  • Secure reliable identification in harsh environments: Thicker than typical RFID tags, metal-friendly labels are still strengthened to survive the harsher conditions metal encounters, such as extreme temperatures, water, and rust.
  • Amplify printer functionality with compliant labels: Whether it be national or global requirements, Avalon makes sure your entire solution meets standards with an easy-to-adjust solution.
  • Create crisp tags at faster printing speed: This plug-and-play solution redefines agility with 14ips printing speeds, delivering up to 300 dpi to create resistant yet flexible tracking tags.

To learn more about Zebra’s newest industrial printer, download our brochure here.

Maximize uptime with the most versatile and durable RFID printer on the market, made the demanding environment of today’s warehouses. Start optimizing warehouse visibility when you contact us for an assessment of your inventory tracking system and schedule a free demonstration of the ZT411.

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Introducing the EC30: But Where Does It Go?

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Standards were made to be raised. Serving warehouses and distribution centers for over twenty years, Avalon Integration has specialized in high standards. As a proud Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, we have the privilege of raising your standards again with Zebra Technologies’ newest breakthrough in mobile computing – the EC30. 

Increasing productivity using the latest form factor, the EC30 serves as the newest and most cost-effective solution when it comes to connectivity, data capture, and inventory management. As the smallest mobile computer on the market, the EC30 fits virtually in any use, which has left manufacturers wondering where exactly to properly integrate it.

The EC30 Allows You to Take Help on the Go, Anywhere You Go

EC30 and Avalon Integration

EC30 and Avalon Integration

With new market demands such as same-day shipping and the e-commerce boom, mobility solutions have become crucial to maintaining efficient continuous operations. From picking to shipping, your digital workforce should facilitate tasks with minimal interruptions. Therefore, devices should be lightweight, fast, and durable to match the new work environment. Fortunately, the EC30 fits all these requirements, making it the first multi-purpose computer, functional in any part of your supply chain.

  • Strengthen your teamwork with the EC30’s voice communication features, sustained by WorryFree WiFi. Keep communication channels open throughout your workforce for better decision-making and real-time insights inside all four walls. 
  • Expedite scanning rate with accurate data capture technology. Whether in the warehouse or the storefront, equip your employees with fast-processing technology that ultimately elevates customer satisfaction with rapid price-lookups. 
  • Improve inventory management with better visibility conducted through Zebra’s Mobility DNA, installed in a lightweight device. Smaller than Zebra’s current touch-computers, the EC30 lets your workers bring all your necessary applications without the hassle of carrying a larger device.
Zebras EC30 on Table

EC30 on Table

A picture worth a thousand words, so check out our video and meet the next generation of mobile computing for yourself. See all these benefits and more when you contact our warehousing experts to schedule a free demonstration and choose your preferred integration strategy to optimize your workforce with the latest solutions.

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