Managing inventory within a supply chain setting is an important and challenging task for any warehouse-based organization. With modern e-commerce and logistics systems, inventory can be flying in and out of warehouse shelves in an instant.
Effectively tracking and managing all of these moving pieces can seem like an impossible challenge but with the proper tools at your disposal such as supply chain inventory management nameplates it can become much easier.
Supply Chain Inventory
Inventory management is a key component of maintaining a successful supply chain. With the sophistication of current inventory tracking software, access to a wealth of information is at your fingertips.
Barcoded tags can provide a wealth of information with a simple scan. Affixing tags to inventory shelves or to product can provide an excellent method for tracking inventory levels.
In addition, accessing real-time stock levels makes re-ordering inventory much simpler. A key element to logistics success is ordering new inventory at the right times. By receiving instant updates on stock levels, hitting these spots is much less challenging.
Having accurate data points provides decision makers with the capability to monitor and the warehouse and locate potential bottlenecks and other issues.
Processes
Photo Anodization
Photo anodizing uses a special-made anodized aluminum. It uses a unique process to embed a design underneath protective layers of metal.
Since the material is highly durable it is used in countless industrial applications. Everyone from oil refineries to the military rely on this process to create a lasting custom identification solution.
Photo anodization can add any image, design, characters, or numbers to your label or nameplate. Whether it’s a logo, a unique design, or just basic numbering; MetalPhoto can do it all.
In addition, a solid color can be added to the nameplates to give them a stand out appearance or for color coding purposes.
Decals
If metal labels just won’t work for your application, decals are another viable solution. They provide the same level of customization as photo anodization with a few extra benefits. Since decals are printed, they can include full color designs.
The drawback to decals is that they are not nearly as durable. The printed ink is fully susceptible to wear and tear, especially in industrial conditions.
They will not survive being exposed to the elements. Water, spills, chemicals, and weather will deteriorate the labels very quickly.
In addition, the material is a vinyl or plastic as opposed to solid metal. After a year in a busy warehouse your decal may be in rough condition.
Decals can be laminated to provide additional protection, but are still susceptible to damage in tough environments.
Wrap-Up
While inventory management is not a simple task by any means, metal identification is a solution which makes a difficult challenge much more manageable.
Utilizing metal nameplates and decals for supply chain inventory management can be an excellent method for better traceability and organization.