Warehouses rely on accurate identification throughout the movement of goods. Labels can help staff identify products, inventory, locations, packages and shipments.
Choosing the right warehouse label printer means considering the type and volume of labels required, the software being used and the environment in which the printer will operate.
What are warehouse label printers used for?
Warehouse labels can be used for:
- Inventory identification
- Product labelling
- Shelf and bin identification
- Picking and packing
- Shipping
- Receiving
- Returns
- Barcode printing
- Asset identification
What makes a good warehouse label printer?
Reliable printing
A warehouse printer should consistently produce readable labels throughout the working day.
Fast printing
Higher-volume workflows may benefit from faster print speeds.
Barcode quality
Clear, accurate barcodes are important for scanning and identification.
Connectivity
Ethernet can be useful for fixed warehouse workstations, while USB and wireless options may suit other environments.
Media flexibility
The correct label material and dimensions depend on the application.
Thermal label printing in warehouses
Thermal printing is widely used for labels because it produces printed information directly onto compatible thermal media.
Star Micronics offers thermal label printers including the TSP847II, mC-Label2, mC-Label3 and TSP743II. Its current product information positions these printers across applications including shipping, retail, POS and fulfilment.
Choosing a warehouse label printer
Before buying, consider:
1. Label dimensions
What size labels does your operation require?
2. Print volume
Estimate the number of labels printed during an average and peak working day.
3. Barcode requirements
Make sure the printer and software can produce the barcode formats you require.
4. Connectivity
Choose the connection method that works with your warehouse infrastructure.
5. Software integration
Confirm compatibility with your WMS, inventory system or other application.
6. Operating environment
Consider temperature, dust, available space and where the printer will be positioned.
Warehouse printing and WMS integration
A warehouse label printer is most useful when it fits naturally into the existing workflow.
For example:
Inventory system → Item received → Label generated → Label printed → Item identified
For more information, see our guide to Label Printers for Warehouse Management Systems.
FAQs
What is the best label printer for warehouse operations?
The best printer depends on label size, print volume, barcode requirements, software compatibility and connectivity.
Can thermal label printers print shipping labels?
Yes, suitable thermal printers can print shipping and other logistics labels, depending on the required label size and media.
Can a label printer connect to a WMS?
Yes. Integration can be achieved through software, drivers, SDKs or other supported methods depending on the WMS.