Why Label Manufacturing Matters for Warehouse Management

Grant Ludema
| 9/16/2024
In this article, discover how product and pallet labels for manufacturing can improve inventory accuracy, traceability, and compliance in warehouse management.

Product and pallet labeling helps maintain inventory accuracy and smooth warehouse management.

For warehouses that run like well-oiled machines, product and pallet labeling are the oil that keeps everything moving smoothly.

Product and pallet labels provide essential visual confirmations of product quality and specifications, enabling accurate tracking from the moment a product enters the warehouse until it leaves. By prioritizing labeling, manufacturing leaders can enhance operations and effectively navigate common warehouse challenges.

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4 advantages of using product and pallet labels for manufacturing

A warehouse depicting boxes to emphasize the benefit of precise inventory records

1. Inventory accuracy

Accurate labeling helps maintain precise inventory records by clearly identifying products and quantities. Labeling reduces the risk of miscounts and phantom inventory issues, and it helps support more efficient and accurate inventory management.
A box and magnifying glass to highlight how proper labeling enhances traceability

2. Enhanced traceability

Proper labeling enhances traceability in manufacturing by keeping items accurately recorded and maintaining alignment between physical inventory and digital records. Effective labeling is essential for controlling the flow of goods and quick identification of discrepancies.
A shipping truck with a clock to point out the importance of operational efficiency

3. Operational efficiency

Product and pallet labeling streamlines warehouse management by reducing the need for manual counting and sorting. Labels make it easy to identify products, track their movements, and help keep the right items in the right place at the right time.
Documents with checkmarks to signify labeling an compliance with regulations

4. Compliance and standards

Many industries require specific labeling to comply with regulations, such as displaying hazmat warnings. Proper labeling helps companies meet these standards avoid fines, and safe handle materials.

What happens when labeling is not prioritized

Without proper labeling, manufacturing facilities might experience decreased workflow effectiveness, increased manual labor, and potential stock discrepancies. These challenges can disrupt productivity, lead to costly errors, and even result in regulatory violations.

For example, a small distributor relying on manual processes without adequate labeling could encounter frequent inventory discrepancies and slower processing times, leading to delayed shipments, dissatisfied customers, and the risk of regulatory fines due to the mislabeling of hazardous materials.

Ways to implement product and pallet labeling

  • Apply advanced technology. Use enterprise resource planning systems to automate labeling and enhance accuracy.
  • Standardize label formats. Establish consistent label formats that include essential information such as item, lot or serial number, expiration date, and quantity.
  • Train employees. Keep staff trained in using labeling systems and understanding the importance of accurate labeling.
  • Monitor and review. Regularly review and update labeling processes to maintain efficiency and compliance.
  • Stay updated with emerging trends. Incorporate innovations such as smart labels, serial shipping container code labels, and universal product codes to improve warehouse management efficiency and standardization.

A NetSuite solution for effective labeling

The NetSuite platform offers comprehensive solutions for integrating labeling into your manufacturing processes. It also can automate labeling tasks and centralize data management, reducing manual input and minimizing errors. With NetSuite solutions, manufacturing leaders can efficiently track and manage all products, improving accuracy and compliance while optimizing overall manufacturing operations.

Rely on Crowe for warehouse management optimization and labeling support

Manufacturing leaders who want to improve their labeling processes can benefit from working with the specialists at Crowe. We work with warehouse decision-makers like you and know how the right technology can enhance the hard work you’re already doing.

Our team is ready to help you choose and implement labeling solutions so your facility can operate at peak efficiency and compliance.

For more information on how Crowe can assist with your labeling needs, contact us today.

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Grant Ludema
Grant Ludema
Consulting

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