Many warehouses/distribution companies use a device called an RF scanner to pick orders and control the flow/quantity of inventory within the organization.
But what exactly is an RF scanner and why is it so useful for industrial businesses to use this technology? We dig deeper into RF scanners in today’s blog post.
What is an RF Scanner?
An RF scanner is a Radio Frequency Scanner. In a warehouse setting this is a wireless handheld device that uses a radio frequency wireless network to communicate with a Warehouse Management System (WMS) in order to transfer information throughout the network.
Typically RF scanners are used in warehouses to pick products. Order Pickers traditionally wear the scanners on their wrists and the scanner directs them to the proper location and item within the warehouse that needs to be picked.
Once the Order Picker has picked the item they scan the item barcode and the system automatically updates the picked items in the WMS. Once the order has been completely picked the information sent through the RF scanner is updated to the WMS and the Order Picker receives their next order to pick.
Why Use RF Scanners in the Warehouse?
- They provide a paperless option – companies can reduce paper usage and Order Pickers are not wasting time handling different paperwork for each item/order
- They offer more accurate picking since the system is automatically updated and confirmed
- There is less room for error due to the immediate results shown on the screen and in the system
- The picking information is in real time – this allows for more accurate inventory control and status updates
RF scanners are a crucial part of an efficient warehouse and provide the necessary technology to run an accurate and organized order picking operation.
Sources:
http://www.trifactor.com/Material-Handling-Systems/Order-Picking-Systems/RF-Picking
https://www.inthergroup.com/warehouse-automation/order-picking/rf-scanning/