Retro-Reflective Rack Labels for Long-Range Forklift Scanning

What retro-reflective rack labels are

Retro-reflective face stock returns light back toward its source, in this case the scanner. That keeps the barcode bright and high contrast at a distance. Upper rack levels pair with retro-reflective facestock and an oversized barcode. CIS prints them on retro-reflective polyester face stock with thermal transfer. Retro-reflective label material allows for scanning from longer distances and is perfect for high level racks that need to be scanned from the ground level.

When you need them, and when you do not

• You need them when drivers scan upper levels from a forklift or from the floor with a long-range scanner. They are ideal for high-bay warehouses and distribution centers.
• You may not need them when all scanning happens at the pick face with standard imagers. Standard CIS warehouse rack labels fit there.
• No long-range scanners? Totem or multi-level labels contain the data for multiple locations within a single label and bring upper locations to a reachable height. They are great for applications without a long-range scanner. See totem and multi-level labels.
• Cold storage: For freezers, CIS freezer-grade labels apply as low as -10F and hold to -65F service temperature; see freezer and cold storage labels.

Scan distance, scanners, and barcode size

• Distance: 10+ feet scan distance (typical for a long-range scanner).
• Real read distance depends on the scanner, barcode size, angle and lighting.
• A long-range scanner is required.
• We size the barcode to your scanner and rack height. Tell us your scanner model and the highest level you scan, and we will spec the label to it.

Placement for upper levels

Wrap-around labels cover the front and bottom of the beam to make scanning from the ground, and in tight areas, easier. For bulk and aisle locations, CIS 45 degree hanging signs have an angled foot for easier scanning from the ground, and Z-shaped hanging signs are angled down on both sides; see aisle signs.

Check the location data before anything prints

Every upper-level label that is wrong means a lift and a reprint, so check the file first. The CIS Label Data Validator runs 16+ automated checks on your location data before print.

For Zion Solutions Group, a supply chain automation integrator, running their location data through the CIS Label Data Validator before print caught errors that would have meant about $15,000 in reprints.

What to send for a quote

• Rack heights and number of levels
• Scanner make and model, and whether it is forklift-mounted or handheld
• Location count and format
• Location file
• Bay photos
• Any cold storage areas
• Go-live date

Why CIS

• 500+ clients and 15+ years, serving warehouses nationwide.
• Rack labels built for daily forklift traffic.
• Location data checked with the CIS Label Data Validator (16+ checks).
• For Luxottica, 140,000+ location labels replaced across the entire facility.
• Installation services: get everything you need, including the labels, materials, equipment and labor, with an on-site installation manager as your point person. Ask your sales representative to schedule a site survey.
• Rack labels in Atlanta and Georgia.