Do you need to create an organizational system to keep track of items at your business? It is possible to do this using some custom barcode labels and a spreadsheet. Here is how you can do it on your own.

Create A System Of Organization Bins

The first step to keep things organized is designing a place to put all of your items. The best way to do this is to use a series of numbered bins. The idea is that each bin will have its own unique name, and you simply put things inside the bins that have a barcode on them. With each bin being fairly small, typically no bigger than a banker's box, you won't have to dig very far to find the item that you are looking for once you locate the bin.

Buy Your Custom Barcode Labels

All items that get placed in bins will require barcode labels. It is a good idea to take your barcodes to the next level and have them customized with your company's logo on them, or even have a set of numbers on the barcodes that make sense for your business. If you do run out of barcode labels, you can always order more barcodes that pick up from the last number used so that the numbers continue to be sequential. If you are storing small items, consider buying custom barcode labels that are as small as possible. 

Create An Inventory

Each item that goes into a box should be listed on your spreadsheet. Create as many columns as you need, but at the most basic level there should be at least three columns: one for the barcode numbers, one that describes the item, another for the bin that the item goes into. A USB barcode scanner will help ensure that you do not mistype any barcodes as you enter them into the spreadsheet, so purchase one if you do not have one. 

Know How To Use The Database

Start by placing a barcode on the item, then scan the barcode when entering text to have it transfer to your database accurately. Then type a description of the item, and note which numbered box it is being placed into. When it comes time to find an item, you can search the description column for the item's name, and then see what box it's in. 

Ready to put the item back? You can search the spreadsheet for the barcode item number by scanning it with your barcode reader. This ensures you're finding the exact item you took out. You will then find the line that confirms the description and tells you which box the item goes back into.

By using custom barcodes and a simple spreadsheet, you'll be on your way to having things organized so you can always find what you're looking for. To learn more about custom barcode labels, contact a company like Miles Data Technologies.