
What’s the Difference Between SKU and UPC Numbers?
February 1, 2025Contents
Did you know that the cost of barcode scanning errors in your business can add up significantly over time? These errors can lead to inventory discrepancies, misplaced orders, and even lost sales, which can take a toll on your bottom line. Barcode scanning is not something to be taken for granted, as it is crucial in streamlining operations and saving you money over time.
The Critical Link Between Verification and Accurate Barcodes
Barcode verification is more than just a visual check—it ensures barcodes meet quality parameters and standards for reliable scanning. Even barcodes that look perfect to the eye can fail scans due to tiny printing errors invisible to the human eye. Industries, including manufacturing, retail, logistics, and healthcare, all rely heavily on barcode usage. In healthcare, a faulty barcode can delay treatment or put patient safety at risk. Retailers have strict barcode requirements, and mistakes can lead to chargebacks or rejected shipments.
Common Barcode Scanning Problems
Barcode readability issues arise from various print quality factors. These can include poor contrast, making it hard for scanners to differentiate between bars and spaces; incorrect barcode sizes, either too small or too large for standard scanners; smudging often caused by poor handling or low-quality printing; and misaligned printing where the barcode is skewed or tilted. Other common issues include insufficient quiet zones around the barcode, improper ink distribution, low symbol contrast, and inadequate scan reflectance profile (how the scanner sees the barcode’s reflectivity). Regular barcode inspection and verification can reduce scan failures by addressing these issues.
Barcode Grading and Standards:
Barcode quality is measured by industry standards like ISO/IEC 15416 for linear barcodes and ISO/IEC 15415 for 2D barcodes. ISO standards evaluate barcode quality based on contrast, clarity, and readability, grading barcodes from A (excellent) to F (poor). ISO barcode standards ensure barcodes can be scanned consistently across different devices and environments. Businesses that follow these standards reduce the risk of barcode scanning issues and avoid potential downtime and products moving through the supply chain. Barcode grading also provides valuable feedback to businesses. By knowing how their barcodes score, they can identify areas to improve, optimize print processes, and reduce costs associated with barcode reprints or scan failures. Industries rely on these metrics to keep things flowing and avoid compliance issues. Consistent ISO grading helps maintain operational efficiency and customer trust.
Barcode Inspection and Quality Control
Barcode verifiers test barcodes against ISO barcode standards and identify issues early so barcodes meet specifications. This proactive approach prevents scan failures before products leave your warehouse. Implementing consistent barcode quality control practices can reduce the risk of downtime. By detecting and resolving issues early, businesses avoid supply chain disruptions and overall operational inefficiencies. Barcode inspections also provide valuable insights into production quality. Businesses can track recurring issues, identify manufacturing problems, and take steps to improve production.
Barcode Scan Failures
A small scanning error rate can cause big problems. Errors can disrupt supply chains, cause delays, and increase operational costs. Reliable scanning is key to efficient workflows, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
Wrapping Up
Barcode verification is part of your business operations to ensure reliable scanning and barcode compliance. By regularly verifying barcode quality, businesses can avoid errors and maintain smooth supply chains and a strong market reputation.
How AccuGraphiX Can Help Your Business with Barcode Verification
AccuGraphiX offers complete barcode verification services for businesses in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail. Their experts ensure barcodes meet GS1 barcode standards and ISO grading. AccuGraphiX provides verification checks, expert guidance, and quality assurance to help your business avoid barcode issues. AccuGraphiX has the tools and expertise to help you achieve high barcode quality and smooth business operations. Get started with us to see how we can make obtaining your GS1 UPC barcodes fast, easy, and backed up with the highest industry standards so that you never have to worry about scan errors. Contact Us Today!
Phone: (714) 632-9000
Email: [email protected]