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3 Ways to Implement Sustainable Labeling in the Warehouse

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The rise in consumer demands for sustainable and environmentally conscious warehousing has skyrocketed within the past years as more consumers grow concerned with the environmental impact of their preferred brands. While recycling and trade-in programs can reduce e-waste in the warehouse, there are other efficient small-scale solutions to reduce environmental impacts. Despite accounting for less than 10% of your operation’s total expenses, enterprise labels significantly contribute to warehouse waste over time. Labels and other paper waste contribute to the 85,000,000 tons of paper waste hitting landfills per year, and product packaging is usually first in the most disposed paper products. Although reducing paper waste may require more effort than label optimization, your consumables are still a good place to start when creating a sustainable warehouse. 

Evaluating your operations to ensure environmental sustainability is crucial to make sure you are getting everything out of your labels. A proactive label evaluation can help establish visibility and cut down on unnecessary costs by pinpointing areas where better labels can be implemented. The goal should be to create a labeling system that empowers:

  • Waste reduction – To accomplish this, many businesses are now turning to linerless labels, thus removing the additional paper waste from the adhesive backing. Another way to avoid paper waste is by preventing labor jams through purpose-built printheads and easier media loading.
  • Easy reutilization– For businesses reusing labeled containers, new tag options like dissolvable labels allow businesses to easily wash away adhesives without leaving behind any residual glue that can prevent new labels from sticking. Paper fibers are environmentally friendly to prevent water pollution. 
  • Seamless recycling at the end of the supply chain – Evaluate how your labeled items are entering and exiting the market. If labeled items are received by another facility within your business, you can maintain control of the handling or disposal of these items.

Streamline high performance with certified printing supplies

Building on a long history of warehouse optimization, Zebra’s certified labels continue to provide a scalable and adaptable way to improve supply chain workflows and meet customer demands. Designed to retain legibility even in the harshest conditions, the following three labels prioritize sustainability and decreased environmental impact while protecting maximum uptime: 

  1. Take sustainability a step further at its face with adhesive that readily dissolves under running water, further reducing waste and pollutants with the 8000D Dissolvable Label. These labels provide a more efficient means to removing disposable labels for seamless reutilization of containers and bins. 
  2. Eliminate the need for a liner with Zebra’s Linerless Labels. To reduce extraneous amounts of paper waste, Zebra’s linerless labels do not need a thermal printing ribbon and gives workflows more labels per roll along with a scratch-resistant and smooth surface for maximized printhead performance.
  3. Enable easy recycling to lower the amount of packaging that hits landfills with the PolyE 4000D Label and Z-Perform 1000DF Label. Made from consistently tested materials, these labels are engineered to comply with environmental standards for easy recycling. 

When it comes to driving sustainability in the modern warehouse, every small detail can create a long and lasting impact. Contact us today to being your comprehensive label evaluation and see how you can reduce costs and waste in your operations.

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4 Benefits DataCapture DNA Brings to the Table

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While a rugged scanner’s design can help secure uptime, intelligent software goes beyond data capture by expanding performance and streamlining data processing. As we continue to explore the qualities of a modernized scanning solution, we turn to Zebra’s DataCapture DNA software as it eliminates modernization complexities while accelerating deployment. When paired with Zebra’s rugged scanners, DataCapture DNA can…

Simplify device management

To alleviate your IT team, Data Capture DNA comes with three remote-management applications:

    • 123Scan – Create a programming barcode that can be used to update one or more scanners without extensive programming.  
    • Remote Management – Access scanner information to set updates and create parameters through your Zebra Scanner Management Service or Windows Management Instrumentation tool. 
    • PowerPrecision and Battery Management – Prevent downtime by monitoring battery cycles for all your deployed devices. 

Expand operational visibility across the workplace

Track operations and collect insightful data with two scanning applications to prevent surprise downtime

    • SuperSpeed Analytics – Identify operational patterns through collected data to create safety parameters within your inventory. 
    • Remote Diagnostics – Collect asset data to monitor maintenance schedules and spot issues before they cause downtime.

Enhance scanner productivity

While there are many productivity tools designed to support unique workflows, the following applications assist in streamlining workflows for faster processing.

    • PRZM Intelligent Imaging – Optimize decode performance with an application that allows you to capture codes in virtually any condition, increasing scanning capacity by 56% compared to competing solutions.
    • Multi-Code Data Formatting – Accelerate scanning with a 2D imager that decodes multiple barcodes at once. Scan up to 20 barcodes on one label simultaneously and automatically format them on your device.
    • Preferred Symbol – Automatically detect and scan your preferred barcode without having to cover up the rest of your label and expect accurate and fast scanning with every trigger pull.
    • WiFi Friendly Mode – To eliminate interruptions, Zebra’s WiFi Friendly Mode keep Bluetooth-operated scanners from overlapping with other WiFi channels.
    • Intelligent Document Capture (IDC) – Unlike flatbed scanners, IDC takes a digital image of your document and deciphers any barcodes for quick and efficient scanning. 

Accommodate developmental changes

Facilitate pairing with just one step for accelerated integration with:

    • Scanner Software Development Kit – Shorten development cycles with Zebra’s technical assistance resources such as how-to videos, source codes, and sample applications. 
    • Scan-to-Connect Connect scanners to your mobile devices via Bluetooth. 
    • Scanner Control Application – Control your Bluetooth-enabled scanner via your preferred tablet or mobile computer. 

Get a full view of how DataCapture DNA goes beyond the barcode in our infographic.

Whether you are looking for a general-purpose scanner or enterprise-intensive data capture, expect more from your devices with intelligent high-performance applications developed to increase efficiency. Contact Avalon Integration today to see how you can bring the benefits of DataCapture DNA into your operations.   

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Are Your Field Teams Ready for Action?

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Within the last few weeks, it seems as if online service has become the new normal for several states across the country. While retail sales have taken a record-breaking dip in March, e-commerce shipments have risen by 47% within the past two months, with order volumes steadily increasing by the day. However, as order quantity increases, so do shipment delays as businesses attempt to assemble and ship orders accurately without compromising worker health. With many stay-at-home orders extended through May, successful order fulfillment requires a new level of mobility that prioritizes adaptability, connectivity, and most importantly, safety.

As leaders in modernized efficiency, Avalon Integration explores new ways to streamline efficiency and productivity, so your field teams can move freely and safely. The result is accurate order fulfillment, increased customer satisfaction, and better brand identity.

How we do it

TC52 Disinfect for Field Teams

Disinfecting the TC52 for Field Teams

To create adaptable and safe mobility, Avalon partners with Zebra Technologies and Proximity’s UV-Clean to enhance:

  • Team communication – Zebra’s rugged mobile devices such as the TC5X and TC7X series provide reliable long-range connectivity, high-speed internet, and communication channels so your teams can stay connected even in the most remote locations, further boosting order visibility throughout the supply chain.
  • Data Capture – Equipped with best-in-class intelligent data capture, Zebra’s Android touch-computers house several productivity applications as part of Zebra’s Mobility DNA which allows teams to scan multiple codes at once and minimize time spent on the road.
  • Reliable sanitation – Zebra’s disinfectant-ready devices are designed to maintain functionality through consistent sanitation cycles.
  • Scalable disinfection – Proximity’s UV-Clean accelerates sanitation efforts, killing 99.99% of harmful pathogens in less than five minutes. Moreover, this solution can fit into even the smallest workspace, sanitizing your team’s devices before and after delivery.

Witness the power of UV when you download our infographic.

As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, Avalon is highly experienced in augmenting mobility efficiently with cost-effective and flexible solutions. Contact us today for a free demonstration of these solutions and equip your field teams with dependable mobility.

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Say Hello to Avalon Integration’s Free Ship Program

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Because who doesn’t like free ship

Who Doesn't Like Free Ship

Who Doesn’t Like Free Ship

In this day and age, there’s already a lot of stuff you have to compromise, but the quality of your labels isn’t one of them. That’s why Avalon Integration is extending free ground shipping till December 31st, 2019 on Zebra custom labels because when it comes to quality, we never compromise and neither should you.

Get More for What You Pay For

Get more for what you pay for with Free Ship from Avalon Integration

Get more for what you pay for with Free Ship from Avalon Integration

Your labels and barcodes provide an array of services. From color-coding to tracking, we know one there is no one-size-fits-all label. Optimizing your labels’ functionality is much easier with Zebra Certified custom labels, now sourced from four label converting facilities across the USA. Ordering with Avalon Integration is like having your personal label converter, without the hassle of estimated freight charges.

Create labels to fit your needs by selecting:

  • Practical shapes and sizes for different jobs
  • Pre-printed icons, IL marks, graphics, and logos
  • Colors that can be identically reproduced with PMS coloring  
  • Perforations to facilitate printing and extend printer longevity

Quality Made Simple

Quality Made Simple with Free Ship from Avalon Integration

Let Avalon Integration show you how to get started with our Free Ship Program

Not sure how to get started? Check out the program overview for qualifications and then get a quote today.

  • Offer applicable only to Zebra custom labels shipped to the USA and Canada
  • Unexpired quotes are still eligible for free shipping
  • Additional supplies should be placed on a separate order as they do not qualify for free shipping
  • Offer does not cover airfreight

When it comes to efficiency, there’s little room for compromise. With Avalon Integration’s free Ship Program, enhancing the functionality of your customized labels has never been easier. Contact us today to learn more about how you can save money on shipping while still getting quality consumables designed by you for you.

Click here to learn more about Free Ship!

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Get the Right Stuff with Custom Labels and Dies for Your Barcode Printer

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One of the issues we frequently see with our customers is wasted time and money when it comes to printing barcode labels. Some are using labels that just don’t fit the application, but it’s “good enough”. Others are keeping such a broad variety of different types of labels that it’s not making good use of the media (and budget). At Avalon Integration, our goal is to get the right stuff with custom labels and dies for your barcode printer, so you can stop compromising.

Why Should You Use Custom Labels?

Zebra Custom Label Dies on a barcode being placed on a box for shipping

A custom label being placed on a box for shipping

With so many reasons, the real question should be, “Why shouldn’t you use custom labels?”

Think about the reason you would purchase anything customized. How many times have you ordered a meal in a restaurant and asked for a substitution? When you bought your last new car, did you choose options? And have you ever bought a suit and had it tailored? When something matters, you choose to get it right…right?

Your barcode labels are no exception. Each one contains important data—information that is critical to keeping your business on track. You need those barcodes to be crisp, clear, and stay that way.

In addition to the barcode itself, what other information does your label provider? Maybe you use color-coding or a certain shape to be able to quickly identify the status of the labeled item, like quality assurance or shipping priority. You might need a compliance label that’s also easy to identify.

Here are other features that can be customized to optimize the functionality of your labels and reduce the label management tasks.

  • Special shape or size: Fit the function to the form, rather than just get what’s available.
  • Pre-printed. Have your logo, graphics, UL mark, or any standard information pre-printed on your labels to get more imprints out of your thermal printer’s ribbon.
  • Color matching. If you have a Pantone or other ink that needs to be reproduced accurately, a custom label gives you precise color matches.
  • Perforation. Make it easier to feed and then separate your labels by getting custom labels with perforations.

Free Custom Dies, Too

Zebra Custom Dies for all your barcoding needs

Zebra Custom Dies for all your barcoding needs

Avalon Integration works with Zebra to offer our customers the same quality in supplies as in the hardware they engineer. With Zebra, we can choose from more 300 pre-tested materials—which leads to thousands of combinations. But we have the added value that there are no extra charges for custom dies. So, if you thought it was too expensive to get what you need, Zebra has the solution for that, too.

Ask yourself if “good enough” really IS good enough for your labels. Let Avalon Integration work with you, starting with a supplies assessment, to see where we can improve the processes with supplies that are better matched to your needs and equipment. You might even save money by consolidating your label inventory! Contact us to get started on getting what you really want.

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The ROI of a User-Friendly Scanner

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Barcode scanning can be a labor-intensive job. From finding the barcode to reaching it with the scanner and capturing the barcode, it’s a process that seems easy but can become more complicated than necessary if the scanner itself can’t handle the challenges. As part of our ongoing quest to optimize operational efficiency for our customers, Avalon Integration took a close look at the scanning potential of the new Zebra MC9300, an ultra-rugged mobile computer that reflects the company’s considerable knowledge of investment in what industries need from their barcode scanners.

Let’s start by looking at what a scanner’s optimal effectiveness does for productivity:

  1. Accelerate the pace of order fulfillment.
  2. Minimize fulfillment errors (from receiving through picking and shipping).
  3. Increase inventory accuracy.
  4. Expedite user training.
  5. Reduce repetitive strain injuries.
  6. Prevent downtime from a battery or device failure.

Solve any one of the issues and you increase the user’s productivity—work faster and more accurately. Solve ALL of them and you have a barcoding power tool! That’s what we’ve discovered with the Zebra MC9300 mobile computer. From a scanning perspective, it delivers on all counts.

Capture Every Barcode

The MC9300 from Zebra Can Capture Every Barcode

The MC9300 from Zebra Can Capture Every Barcode

The MC9300 is powered by Zebra’s industry-leading scanning technology. PRZM Intelligent Imaging, advanced sensors, and proprietary algorithms are designed to make data capture as easy as possible. Grab 1D, 2D, and direct part mark (DPM) barcodes—even those that are hard to read. If the barcode is smudged, scratched, dirty, damaged, poorly printed, or covered with frost or shrink-wrap, you can still point, click, and capture it.

Do It on the First Try

The mc9300 Is Here to Do It on the First Try Every-time

The MC9300 Is Here to Do It on the First Try Every-time

Barcode scanning shouldn’t make your workers feel like acrobats—twisting, reaching, climbing, and bending over backward to get to the barcode. Zebra’s omnidirectional scanner means you can scan from any angle. There’s no more wasted time spent trying to precisely align the laser with the barcode. Imagine if your workers had to spend three times as long to read a barcode. What does that do to your workforce productivity?

In addition to omnidirectional scanning ease, Zebra offers four different scan engine options with the MC9300. If your scanning requires short-range or long-distance data capture, the SE4850ER scan engine lets you read from as close as 3 inches to as far as 70 feet away—perfect for warehouses, distribution centers, transportation and logistics, and manufacturing plants. The SE4750DP is a good choice for any manufacturer that utilizes DPMs. If you’re only scanning 1D barcodes, equip your MC9300 with the new SE965 scan engine; however, if you might need both 1D and 2D without extended range, Zebra also offers the SE4750 standard range scan engine.

The MC9300 Scanner Is Here to Impress

The MC9300 Scanner is here to impress

The MC9300 Scanner is here to impress

No matter which scan engine you choose for the MC9300, your workers will be impressed with the lightning-fast speed. We also like the battery power that’s standard on Zebra’s new rugged industrial handheld. The high-capacity 7000 mAh PowerPrecision+ gives twice as long a charge as the previous MC9200 (which was still impressive). The battery charges faster and can be swapped without powering down the device. One of the features of the Mobility DNA app that comes with any of Zebra’s mobile computers is the PowerPrecision Console. One glance shows you the health and battery life so you don’t run out in the middle of a shift.

How’s your scanning efficiency handling all of your needs? If there’s room for improvement (and we suspect there is), contact us at Avalon Integration to see the ROI that the Zebra MC9300 can provide.

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Productivity and Ergonomics: How the Zebra MC9300 Masters Both

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Everyone is laser-focused on maximizing productivity in the warehouse, plant, and distribution center. It makes sense with the increased demand for flawless fulfillment and faster delivery. Productivity and ergonomics go hand in hand—quite literally. Avalon Integration recently discovered how the new Zebra MC9300 masters both productivity and ergonomics with an improved grip.

The latest in Zebra’s MC9000 Series of industrial handhelds launched a lot of improvements that we didn’t see coming. They’re all designed to increase worker efficiency and accuracy. But one of the significant—and often unsung—contributions toward productivity-boosting is the ergonomic enhancement. When a device handles easier, the worker can move more swiftly, with more ease and comfort. The business saves on the downtime that results from wrist strain and even stretching to scan barcodes from high or awkward positions (or both). You also save on the time it takes to manipulate and operate a device that isn’t ergonomically mastered.

Here’s what Zebra did to address these issues on the MC9300 mobile computer.

Smarter Grip Design

The Zebra MC9300 has a Smarter Grip Design

The Zebra MC9300 has a Smarter Grip Design

Admittedly, we didn’t see a flaw in the MC9200’s grip. Sometimes, you don’t know what you’ve been missing until it stares you in the face. This new grip handle enables the user to align the hand and fingers more naturally along the curve. At the same time, this design provides for a stronger grip. The grip area has also been redesigned as concave, making it easier to hold the device firmly in the most comfortable position.

Grab and Go Ease

The Zebra MC9300 can Grab and Go With Ease

The Zebra MC9300 can Grab and Go With Ease

The MC9300’s design also lets your workers put it down and pick it up quickly. The front of the grip’s base and the edge of the top of the display are engineered so you can place it on a surface with good stability. When you need the device, grab hold of the grip and you’re instantly in “point and shoot” mode. The over-molded bumpers in these areas (and all touchpoints) provide essential protection in the event someone puts it down too hard or loses a grip on the grip.

A Bigger, Broader View

Zebra MC9300 has a Bigger Broader View

Zebra MC9300 has a Bigger Broader View

What are your scanning needs? Long reach? Cold storage? Direct part marks? Zebra will offer your choice of four scan engines:

  • 1D standard range (SE965)
  • 1D/2D standard range omnidirectional (SE4750SR)
  • Extended range for 1D/2D data capture from 3 inches to 70 feet (SE4850ER)
  • Direct part mark (DPM) with lightning-fast capture (SE4750DP)

The MC9300’s scanner and two cameras provide an expanded FOV, so you can capture more data with less movement, and with no interference between the data capture functions.

When your goal is to drive efficiency through smarter design, you owe it to yourself and your workforce to check out the Zebra MC9300. Watch this video to see the new mobile computer and then contact Avalon Integration to find out how to get your hands on one.

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Raise the Bar Again: Zebra’s New MC9300 Has 12 Improvements

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The Zebra MC9200 set a new standard for rugged mobile computing when it was launched a few years ago and the device maintained that stature ever since. The reign has ended. We just got a sneak peek at the new leader. Avalon Integration is ready to crown the MC9200’s successor. Raise the bar again because Zebra’s new MC9300 has 20 improvements. This rugged handheld does more than push the envelope of enterprise mobile computing. This device blasts right through it.

We’re all used to new versions coming out of our favorite technology, and we’ve perhaps become jaded from the steady stream of “new and improved”. Yes, there are always some cool things, but are they enough to motivate you to upgrade?

The Avalon Integration testers were asked this question. They responded with, “Are you kidding? This is a game-changer!”

What’s so great about the MC9300?

The Zebra MC9300 Scanning Barcodes Cardboard Boxes

Zebra clearly evaluated every aspect of the previous generation (the MC9200) to determine where improvements could make it better. They also obviously listened to users—those people who always have a wish list ready. The result of all this effort is a long list of features that will produce outstanding efficiency that is sure to deliver rapid ROI.

  1. Faster processor. The new MC9300 is powered by a 2.2 GHz, octa-core, Qualcomm SD660, a major leap from the MC9200’s 1 GHz, dual-core OMAP 4 processor.
  2. More memory. With today’s more graphics-intensive apps, you’ll appreciate having up to 8 times the RAM and 16 times the flash of the previous handheld.
  3. Latest Android OS. The future-proofed MC9300 ships with Android O pre-installed but includes support through Android Q.
  4. Bigger, tougher screen. The MC9200’s 3.7-inch VGA display has grown to 4.3-inch WVGA with a capacitive Gorilla Glass panel.
  5. Expanded Wi-Fi. This version supports 802.11 ac/w for increased Wi-Fi range, speed, and security. 2X2 Multiple-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) provides better performance in areas where multiple users are accessing the network.
  6. Improved Bluetooth. Get twice the data speed and four times the range with less power.
  7. More imaging options. Choose from 4 scan engines to customize the MC9300 to your specific uses, like extended range (3 inches to 70 feet), omnidirectional, and DPMs.
  8. Updated keypad. 7 keypads (alphanumeric, numeric, and functional numeric) let you match your preferred data entry to the task, and the large keys enable input with gloved fingers.
  9. High-resolution rear camera. The 13 MP color camera allows for detailed image capture, ideal for proof of condition, compliance, and service.
  10. Sensors for light and vibration. Ambient Light Sensor saves power by automatically adjusting the screen brightness. The time-saving Vibration feature signals users in noisy environments when a scan has been successfully captured.
  11. Supercharged battery power. The 7000 mAh PowerPrecision+ battery delivers twice the run time of the MC9200 and charges from 0 to 90% in less than 3.5 hours.
  12. More rugged. Zebra is known for its toughness. The MC9300 takes it even further, with an 8-foot drop spec, shock-resistant housing, scratch-resistant display and imager window, and IP65/67 sealing that protects against water.

There are many more improvements that you need to see for yourself

The Zebra MC9300 Scanning Barcode in Warehouse

Avalon Integration is ready to guide you through a hands-on tour of the new MC9300, so you can decide how the new leader in enterprise mobile computing will impact your productivity like never before. Click here to see our close-up look at the MC9300’s features.  Then contact us to schedule a demo.

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Prevent Downtime and Rush Charges with Proactive Supplies Management

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The production line is working efficiently to meet production demands. Things are progressing on schedule. Then the print on the barcode labels shows streaking. You throw out a batch and check the printer. You need a new ribbon. But there isn’t one. Production halts and someone is sent scurrying to get a replacement. Avalon Integration has been on the receiving end of these urgent calls. You can prevent downtime and rush charges with proactive supplies management.

Proactive supplies management keeps your operation running smoothly

Proactive supplies management keeps your operation running smoothly

Is it a problem? It might not seem like a big one until it happens. Then you can add up the cost of lost productivity—work that must be made up to stay on track. Calculate the expense of getting the supplies delivered in a rush, too.

Let’s rewind and look at a solution that prevents the unwelcome surprise of running out of barcode printer supplies.

Find a Managed Service Supplier for Proactive Supplies Management

Find Managed Service for Proactive Supplies Management

The right resource does more than fulfill orders. You need a provider who pays attention to the way you use your supplies (type, volume, order frequency) and adjusts accordingly. The right supplier will advise you of improvements you can make to your ordering, like consolidating labels to save money, using pre-printed barcode label media, or revising your quantities. Your barcode printer supplier should get to know you and your business to understand your processes and become a partner, not a salesperson.

It starts with a supplies assessment. Guide the provider through your operation, explaining how your labeling is done—the applications, printer types, and media. In many cases, when we’ve conducted these assessments, we’ve found significant potential for improving the processes and also saving money. So, it’s a smart investment of your time!

Take Adventure of Deeper Volume Discounts

Deeper Volume Discounts with Managed Supplies

We’ve discovered that by slightly changing the size of some labels, our customers gain efficiencies. They can reduce the number of label sizes in inventory and take advantage of deeper volume discounts.

One of the other valuable solutions is more efficient color-coding. For printing like quality assurance labels, having “pass” and “fail” labels easily visible by color is a distinct advantage, but it can get costly to print color. Zebra IQ Color labels are perfect for this type of application. These labels have invisible color zones. The color is activated, not printed when it goes through your direct thermal printer. With one label, you can print your color-coded labels in up to three different colors (plus black).

We’d like to see how we can use our expertise to your benefit. Contact Avalon Integration to schedule a free assessment.

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Get ROI When You Match Your Barcode Printer to the Label Use

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There are no real shortcuts to quality, just smart choices. Your barcode label printing is no exception. You could try to use the same ribbons or media for a variety of label applications, but unless they all serve the same purpose, you’re wasting time and money. Avalon Integration’s experts remind you that you get ROI when you match your barcode printer to the label use.

Zebra 110xi4 Barcode Printer in a Warehouse with man pushing a dolly

There are literally thousands of options for thermal printer media, so you can pinpoint the perfect match that handles the way your printer operates and produces labels that withstand the conditions they face.

Here are the factors that contribute to choosing the right supplies for your barcode printer.

Barcode Printer Type

Make Sure you have the Right Printer for the Right Label

If you’re producing your labels on a thermal printer, you use either a direct thermal or thermal transfer printing technology. Direct thermal applies heat directly to the media, so you need labels that have been chemically treated to react to the heating process. Direct thermal is a good choice for short-term labels, but the print fades over time, even faster when exposed to sunlight or heat. Thermal transfer is a process that applies heat to a ribbon, which then transfers the ink to the media. The result is a more durable print that resists exposure to light and heat. The label media presents a wider variety: paper, vinyl, polyester, polypropylene, and polyimide. You must match the media to your printer’s technology. It’s not interchangeable.

Barcode Printer Speed

A Zebra Barcode Printer Printing a Label Very Fast

Each printer has a specified print speed. High-speed printers require labels and media that are designed for them. Be sure you know the calibration of any media before you use it in your printer. For the best quality in a high-speed thermal printer, choose a high-speed wax ribbon.

Barcode Printer Resolution

Zebra High Resolution Barcode Printer

The printer’s resolution is measured in dots per inch (dpi). The higher the dpi, the finer the resolution. For micro-labels, you probably print at 600 dpi, while many applications are fine at 203 or 300 dpi. Again, match your barcode label to the printer to ensure quality.

Surface Shape and Material

Zebra Supplies Are Versatile for Any Job

Is your label being applied to a flat surface or a curved one? Is it smooth, like metal, or rough, like cardboard? These are important considerations for your barcode label supplies. Choose a substrate that is designed to adhere to the surface you’re labeling so that you don’t have to worry about labels falling off—which is a costly error.

Environmental Conditions

Media Environmental Specifications

Think about what the label will endure. Will it be exposed to bright sunlight or extreme temperatures? To stay adhered to and readable for the life of the label, pay attention to the media’s environmental specifications.

Chemical Resistance

Zebra Printers are Chemical Resistance for any environment

Similar to the exposure to environmental elements, be aware of the chemicals that might come in contact with the label. Some synthetic substrates are engineered to withstand chemicals of different strengths, from alcohol and gasoline to acetone and xylene.

With all these factors that impact the quality of your barcode labels, make sure your supplier understands how you’re using the supplies. If you’re unsure, ask for samples so you can test the media before ordering a large amount. Avalon Integration strongly recommends Genuine Zebra Supplies because of its consistent quality. We know that every product has been extensively tested and meets the specifications.

There’s another reward for using Zebra supplies. You’ll never pay for another printhead replacement as long as you keep using Genuine Zebra Supplies. That’s about $400 savings per printhead. Enroll for free in the Printhead Protection Program. And when you need someone who truly understands how to make the most of your barcode label printing, talk to us at Avalon Integration.

Please don’t waste your money on bargain barcode printer supplies. They aren’t a bargain at all. Instead, contact Avalon Integration to make the right choice and we’ll pay you back with the Printhead Protection Program. It’s free to enroll and the rewards are substantial!

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