The logistics industry is under constant pressure to optimize processes and increase efficiency. An innovative technology that is increasingly being used in warehouses and logistics processes is the back-of-the-hand scanner. These devices combine mobility, ergonomics and technological precision – a real game-changer for the industry.
Back-of-the-hand scanners consist of a small, lightweight scanner module and a control unit that attaches it to the hand in the form of a glove or other accessory.
The scanners are usually wirelessly connected to a smartphone or other host.
This allows warehouse workers to scan barcodes while keeping both hands free for lifting, grasping or sorting.
In particular, when it comes to picking in the warehouse, some companies can no longer imagine doing without these practical scanners. Thanks to these innovative devices, employees can scan items from a packing list without having to pick up and put down a scanner. The scanner is always at hand without being in the way. Items can be picked immediately after scanning – both hands are free during and immediately after the scanning process. But the practical back-of-hand scanners offer many more advantages that ensure more efficient workflows in modern warehouse logistics:
Higher Productivity
Conventional hand-held scanners require an employee to pick up the device and put it down again after each scan. Back-of-hand barcode scanners eliminate this additional step, allowing employees to seamlessly switch between scanning and other tasks.
Ergonomics and workload reduction
The scanners are ergonomically designed to reduce strain on hands and wrists. This protects the health of employees and minimizes the risk of absenteeism due to overwork. Even after long scanning processes, there is less fatigue and pain.
Shorter processes
The constant availability of the scanner significantly reduces the time needed for scanning. This results in faster processing times for picking, inventory checks or shipping processes. Since the scanner does not have to be put down between work steps, work paths, time and energy are saved. The small backhand scanners also do not interfere with other work and can be worn comfortably throughout the entire workday.
Error reduction
The scanners are precise and minimize human error when capturing barcodes. Many models provide audible, visual or haptic feedback that immediately signals whether a scan was successful. Fewer errors in scanning processes mean lower costs for returns and happier customers for many companies.
Flexibility and compatibility
Modern back-of-hand scanners are often compatible with different operating systems and warehouse management systems. This makes it easier to integrate them into existing logistics infrastructures. They usually connect wirelessly to a host via Bluetooth, thus offering additional flexibility.
In addition to picking goods, back-of-hand scanners can also be used flexibly in many other areas of modern warehouse logistics:
- Inventory management: when moving through shelves, barcodes can be quickly checked without the use of additional devices.
- Shipping and packaging: scanning packages as they are stacked directly on pallets.
- Goods receiving: The scanner is always at hand to check and document incoming goods.
- Storage location management: The scanners can be seamlessly integrated into existing warehouse management systems and help to use storage locations efficiently.
So, barcode scanners are a real game-changer for logistics. They can fundamentally change the way logistics work and bring many advantages. They not only increase efficiency, but also improve working conditions for employees and save time and money in the long term. This is a sensible investment for companies that want to remain competitive in the future.
See for yourself what these small, powerful scanners can do and request your free test device of our Rockscan W100 today!
In addition to the practical and efficient back-of-hand scanners, other innovative technologies can also take logistics processes to a new level: for example, the handheld PDA Rockscan A260 offers the option of direct control of the scanned data via the smartphone-format screen. By contrast, our classic scanner, Rockscan PX3000, scores points with its greater range and extremely robust housing.
