Avoid transport delays with the correct barcode
You may have become frustrated over the fact that your tracking events have not been updated in the system or that your parcels have been delayed? With the correct barcodes and proper label application, you can reduce the number of parcels that need to be handled manually.
When parcels have barcode errors on the labels and cannot be read by machine in any other way, they must be removed from the conveyor belt to be handled manually. This prevents a smooth production and can lead to a delay for the parcels. It may also prevent you from finding the tracking events for the parcels as fast as you would otherwise.
The extra costs that follow in connection with the manual handling of the parcels will be invoiced to the sender in accordance with our Transport Guide. Here are some tips for simple steps you can take to avoid such mistakes and costs in the future.
How to avoid barcode errors
- Make sure that your label printer is working properly. If it prints the barcode with poor quality or adds clear white stripes down the label, the printer should be repaired or replaced. Also, make sure that the printer does not print the barcode too far out on the edge (information may then be lost).
- Have a walkthrough with those who pack and label your parcels, so that everyone knows how the barcode should be placed to ensure smooth machine reading:
- Avoid wrinkling the label
- Do not place the label over a joint or around the edge of the package
- The barcode cannot be hidden either. That is:
- Do not place the barcode under another label
- Do not place it under a strap
- Do not place it under a cover or tape
- Make sure that the barcode is not wrapped in plastic foil or covered by plastic that does not fit smoothly against the label
- Do not cover the label with reflective plastic
No. 1 from the left – the barcode is covered with plastic that does not fit smoothly against the label
No. 2 from the left – the label has been printed badly since it has white ”dots” on the barcode
No. 3 from the left – the label is placed over a joint
No. 4 from the left – the label is wrinkled and placed over a joint
The entire barcode label must be placed correctly on the parcel and be visible from one side.
Having the right barcodes is a very important factor in avoiding unnecessary obstacles during the delivery time. With these simple routines in place, we can together ensure that your parcels will reach your customers quickly and correctly.