As customers want their orders faster than ever, the warehouse and distribution industries are adopting the integration of mobile computers throughout the supply chain to improve their day-to-day operations and work more productively. Mobile computers give employees flexibility as they work, saving SCM operations about 11.3 hours weekly per employee, resulting in notable productivity.

Many of these mobile computers are intuitive, featuring user-friendly interfaces and operating systems that your employees are familiar with, such as Android or Windows Mobile. Additionally, they come with a compact, lightweight, and durable designs, which makes them perfect for extreme environments like warehouses. The most frequently utilized mobile devices include wearable and handheld mobile computers, vehicle-mounted computers, handheld RFID readers, and tablets.

In this article, you will discover how to use these mobile computers in the warehouse and distribution industries to achieve your goals, operate profitably, and keep customers happy.

4 Ways to Use Mobile Computers in the Warehouse and Distribution Industries

1. Use mobile computers to scan bar-code labels and RFID tags

Warehouse and distribution industries can use mobile computers such as handheld bar-code scanners, wearable tech, augmented reality (AR), and RFID to improve tasks like scanning items, locating bins, and viewing pick or pack lists. Also, some of these mobile computers can display the required product information without even having to handle the product.

By implementing scanning with mobile computing devices, you can efficiently improve productivity and reduce the time it takes to complete a task enabling you to optimize your labor for valuable activities.

2. Use mobile computers for faster data capture

Operations in warehouses have become easier with industrial mobile computers to capture data faster than possible when using manual data collection.

Workers can collect order status, location data and even record the condition of goods by taking photographs with the built-in imager or camera. As soon as this information is collected, it can be uploaded quickly into the warehouse management or a cellular data connection or Wi-Fi network.

3. Use mobile computers for advanced tracking

Using mobile computers for advanced tracking can significantly improve your company’s supply chain visibility. You can view up-to-date information on inventory databases on the mobile computer screen after the scanning data entry.

Also, workers can get details of each inbound or outbound order and display detailed information, including the location of packages and estimated time of arrival. The technology can also help the logistics department verify the order and print bills laden with customer shipping information.

4. Use mobile computers press-to-transmit communication

These mobile computing devices are not only used for data collection; many include features that enable press-to-transmit communication with supervisors, dispatch, co-workers in the field, as well as others back in the office. Warehouse workers can ask for assistance from co-workers or report inventory or shipping problems.

Examples of mobile computers devices that can be used in warehouses and distribution industries include:

●        Bar-code scanner

An example of a bar-code scanner used in the warehouse and distribution industry is the Urovo RT40. This industrial mobile computer is a professional cold chain handheld computer that has outstanding cold resistance. It comes with long-range scanning capabilities, making it easy to recognize high-shelf goods at a range of up to 15m.

Also, this device passes GMS certifications and supports hot-swap, enabling you to replace the battery without switching off. This feature effectively protects data and prevents the loss of important information. Its 5200mAh large-capacity battery supports quick charge and can be fully charged in less than 3 hours.

●        Industrial PDA

●       Waterproof Rugged handheld Mobile Computer

The Urovo DT50 is an excellent example of a waterproof, rugged handheld computer. It supports barcode scan, optical fingerprint, quick charge、NFC, and 4Gm. Also, it passes GMS, IVANTI, SOTI, AER, AirWatch, and TeamViewer certifications. This professional scan engine has a millisecond response for reading 1D/2D codes quickly, even when worn out, wrinkled, warped, curled, ripped, stained, or damage.

●       Indoor industrial mobile computer

The Urovo DT40 is an industrial mobile computer with an optimized speaker specially designed for indoor operation and accurately responds to every scanning process. This high-performance full keypad indoor PDA barcode scanner integrates many functions, including 1D/2D barcode scan NFC and many more.

It comes with an HD dual rear autofocus camera of 13MP for greater clarity and a front 2MP camera that supports 4K HD video recording. Also, this device has an IP67 sealing1.5m drop resistance, and it passes GM and AirWatch certifications.

●       Android handheld barcode scanner

Android handheld barcode scanner such as the Urovo i6310 is a portable, rugged mobile computer with an extremely slim body, equipped with a powerful scan code function and a large-capacity battery.

The device has an optimized Android 7.1/8.1 OS that matches the UMS device management system to provide enterprises with richer applications, safer data guarantees, easier management, and more convenient and smoother operation. Also, it passes GMS, AER, SOTI, AirWatch, IVANTI, TeamViewer certifications.

Conclusion

The mobile computers mentioned in this article can enable new efficiencies in every warehouse operation and distribution industry. With a modern interface, durable design, and wireless data collection capabilities, these devices can help your workers to produce more accurate orders and do so faster than ever before.

To ensure these devices fit the technology portfolio of any supply chain operation, we at Urovo have created extensive accessory packages available to customize devices to individual needs and preferences.

Urovo focuses on the design, research, development, production, and sales of special printers, smart data, and payment terminals. It is one of the best enterprises in China that focuses on the R&D of industry mobile application products.

Contact us today to unleash your business potential with the Urovo mobile computers!