Key Takeaways
- Barcodes are low-cost and suit most SMEs.
- RFID reads many items at once without line of sight, ideal for high-volume or high-value items.
- Many businesses combine both.
Manual entry causes stock errors. Barcode and RFID automate identification, but they differ in cost and capability.
Comparison
| Factor | Barcode | RFID |
|---|---|---|
| Tag cost | Very low | Higher |
| Scanning | One at a time, line of sight | Many at once, no line of sight |
| Speed | Moderate | Very fast |
| Durability | Labels can wear | Rugged tags available |
| Best for | Most SMEs, retail billing | Apparel, warehouses, assets, high-value goods |
Use cases
- Barcode: billing, goods receipt, picking, small warehouses
- RFID: apparel stock counts, returnable containers, tools and assets, gate tracking
Implementation tips
- Standardise item codes first
- Choose label printers and scanners compatible with your software
- Pilot in one location
- Train staff on scanning discipline
See inventory features and WMS guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is RFID better than barcode?
RFID is faster and reads multiple items at once, but costs more. Barcode is sufficient for many businesses.
How much do RFID tags cost?
Costs vary by type and volume; passive tags are cheaper than rugged or active tags.
Can I use both barcode and RFID?
Yes, many businesses use barcodes for items and RFID for cartons, pallets or assets.
Does inventory software support RFID?
Many modern systems do, or can be integrated with RFID readers.
