Whether your team works in the field or in an office, you rely on equipment to keep your business running. However, you invested a lot of resources into this equipment and you need to maintain it, maximize its performance, and prevent theft or loss.
This is why many businesses invest in equipment tracking, but with so many options, it can be hard to make the right choice for your business. Follow this guide to choose the perfect tracking options for your business’s equipment and assets.
Equipment tracking works by assigning a unique identifier to every piece of equipment. This is usually expressed in the form of a label or tag with a scannable barcode or QR code. Ideally, these tags should be readable to both humans and machines.
When someone scans the code, the information goes to your asset tracking database, which keeps tabs on the thousands of pieces of equipment in your business. This database tracks data on equipment ownership, date and time, location, and more.
While equipment tracking might seem like an added step, it offers plenty of benefits to businesses, including:
Sometimes the asset tracking software you use will require you to use a certain type of tracking device. However, more often than not, you’re allowed to pick the tracking devices that work best for your business. You can choose from different materials, sizes, layouts, adhesives, and much more.
When it’s time to start tracking your equipment, these are some of the most popular — and durable — options on the market.
Asset labels and tags are specifically designed for tracking equipment. These tracking devices are incredibly durable and are rated for harsh outdoor environments. MPC’s asset tags also allow for high-resolution and even full-color options.
You can choose from either metal or plastic tags; both substrates have a life expectancy of over 20 years. For indoor applications, polyester stickers are an affordable and long-lasting option.
Industrial labels are rated for use in manufacturing and other harsh environments. MPC’s labels use a proprietary Metalphoto® substrate that’s superior to the most durable options on the market today, including stainless steel. You have the power to customize size, shape, and thickness and can either opt for mechanical attachments or adhesive.
Custom metal decals are ideal if you like the smooth finish and durability of metal. You can add any information onto these decals, including custom text, logos, color, and barcode tracking. These decals can also include detailed schematics, which allow you to provide all the relevant information about a piece of equipment on a single label.
These metal labels are primarily used to share information about a piece of equipment, including serial numbers, manufacturing dates, specifications, and operating instructions – and you don’t need a separate tag to track these assets, either. Include rating plate information alongside a unique barcode or QR to save space, time, and money.
Implementing tracking devices and software involves several key steps to ensure smooth integration and maximum benefits. Start by assessing your current inventory management and asset tracking processes to identify gaps and areas for improvement. Next, select the appropriate tracking devices based on your business needs—options include asset labels, industrial labels, custom metal decals, and rating plate labels.
Once you’ve chosen the devices, partner with a reputable provider to customize them according to your specifications, such as material, size, and adhesive type. Ensure that the tracking devices are durable enough for your operational environment, whether indoor or outdoor, harsh conditions or not.
Next, invest in a robust asset tracking software that can integrate seamlessly with your existing systems. The software should be user-friendly and capable of storing and analyzing data from the tracking devices. Train your employees on how to use the tracking devices and software effectively, emphasizing the importance of scanning equipment regularly and accurately.
Finally, establish protocols for routine maintenance and updates of both the devices and software. Regularly review the tracking data to make informed decisions about inventory management, asset utilization, and preventive maintenance. By following these steps, your organization can enhance efficiency, reduce losses, and achieve better control over its assets.
Whether you want to track computer equipment with simple stickers or you opt for metal rating plate labels, there are so many ways to track the equipment and assets in your business. When in doubt, go with a trusted label and tag provider to find the perfect tracking mechanism for your use case.
Metalphoto of Cincinnati provides custom labels and tags for every application. View our label and tag options now to request a sample.
Equipment tracking is crucial for businesses as it improves inventory management, streamlines supply chain operations, and enhances asset tracking. It helps prevent loss or theft, enables data-driven decision-making, and ensures regulatory compliance. By using tracking devices, businesses can maintain equipment performance and maximize their investment.
Businesses can choose from several durable tracking devices, including asset labels and tags, industrial labels, custom metal decals, and rating plate labels. These options can be customized in terms of materials, sizes, layouts, and adhesives, ensuring they meet the specific needs and environments of the business.
Tracking devices improve supply chain operations by providing visibility into the movement of goods from manufacturers to retailers. They help identify bottlenecks, optimize logistics, and ensure timely deliveries. This enhanced operational efficiency leads to cost savings, improved productivity, and ultimately, increased profitability for businesses.
Our sales engineers are experts in automatic asset tracking, tagging and identification,a nd can answer all your questions. Get in touch now.
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