<![CDATA[Covington Barcoding, Inc.

<![CDATA[Covington Barcoding, Inc. - Blog]]>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:03:55 -0500Weebly<![CDATA[How Does Your Printer fit into the Now Economy?]]>Wed, 08 Jan 2020 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/how-does-your-printer-fit-into-the-now-economy

Back in 1994, very few consumers fully understood the future of “computer stores”. However, remote shopping conducted over the phone was already responsible for $60 billion worth of sales. Now, nearly sixteen years later, ecommerce is reshaping retail operations with complex supply chains and new consumer demands. Along with it comes the “Now” Economy which demands faster free shipping from coast to coast.

Past shipping speeds used to fall anywhere between two weeks up to a month. International shipping was either unheard of or extremely slow. In today’s “Now” Economy, fast shipping can make or break the customer’s experience. As a matter of fact, 75% of consumers surveyed by the National Retail Federation report expecting free delivery while the 2018 Consumer Trends Report states that 63% of participating consumers expect no more than three days for standard delivery. While ecommerce drives the need for faster order fulfillment, Covington Barcoding works closely alongside partners to meet demands efficiently and affordably, starting with your printer.

As a crucial part of your inventory management system, industrial printers can dictate workflow pace, which is why enhancing your printer from the inside out can set your operations up for success. To eliminate integration downtime, Covington partners with Zebra Technologies to maximize uptime with quality, versatile, and affordable printing.

This is what the Future of Printing Looks Like

Higher Printing Versatility – As supply chains become more dynamic and compliance standards change, warehouses require adaptable printers such as the ZT421 and ZT411 which deliver direct thermal, thermal transfer, and metal-compatible RFID tags through one device.
Greater Ease of Use – While flexible, new printers must also be user-friendly to lessen bottlenecks and worker confusion. Intuitive media loading and faster printing speeds make printers like the ZT600 ready to handle higher order influx.
Rugged Enterprise Labels – An efficient printer cannot deliver quality prints without quality labels. As inventory travels farther, labels must withstand changing temperatures and new environments without losing legibility.
Compatible Quality Ribbons – Printer ribbons help regulate printing speeds and image quality, which is why they must be durable and compatible to your application requirement.

Set a new printing standard this year with a system designed for maximum efficiency, from the inside out. Speak with a printing specialist today to start a printing solution tailored to your needs and expectations.

]]><![CDATA[Why Care About Printer Safety]]>Wed, 18 Dec 2019 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/why-care-about-printer-safety

Any device connected to a network is vulnerable to security breaches. From mobile computers to tablets, today’s hackers can target any networked device…including printers. When left unchecked, unsecured printers can become the perfect gateway into your operation’s sensitive data. A few layers of protection are what protects an efficient printing system from breach disasters such as the mass printer hacking that affected thousands of campuses nationwide. As a matter of fact, the IDC Worldwide Semiannual Security Spending Guide estimated a 38% growth in cybersecurity spending between 2016 and 2020, a nearly $30 billion overall increase.

As technology advances, new security risks advance with it. A printer security breach can result in:

Unauthorized print jobs
Access to confidential information
Configuration alterations
Denial-of-Service attacks

To prevent costly and embarrassing security risks, Covington Barcoding recommends Zebra’s PrintSecure, a Link-OS durable layer of print security made for accessibility, reliability, and discretion.

Stay Secure with PrintSecure

While device security is crucial, connectivity still remains indispensable since it reduces wait-times with more availability. Integrated into Zebra’s latest line of industrial and mobile printers, PrintSecure enhances device performance by keeping up with current best practices and updates. Favoring both connectivity and safety, PrintSecure uses seven tools to protect productivity.

Zebra’s Security Assessment Wizard locates potential vulnerabilities to integrate newer security protocols.
Printer Profile Manager Enterprise maintains real-time visibility throughout your printing fleet.
OS Download Control protects your printers from unwanted OS updates.
Automated WiFi Certificate Management allows you to automatically assign and update security certificates.
Protected Mode safeguards against unauthorized settings changes.
Default Improvements maintains your selected WiFi and Bluetooth settings while preventing accidental connections.
Simplified Printer Decommissioning assists your workforce in preparing your device for safe retirement.

Upgrade your printers before December 31st, 2019 through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program and set a new standard in printer security. To find out which printer better suits your workflow, contact our printing experts for a full assessment of your current workflow.

]]><![CDATA[Strong Printers are Made from the Inside Out]]>Tue, 10 Dec 2019 16:19:52 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/strong-printers-are-made-from-the-inside-out

At the core of your crucial operations, your printers work diligently to secure continuous productivity while creating much-needed identification labels. To put matters into perspective, a broken printer can cost as much as $1,200 per one hour of downtime in a warehouse with approximately 100 employees. The longer the wait time – or the more stagnant workers you have – the costlier more downtime.

Because even the best printers eventually reach end of life, Covington Barcoding recommends investing in intelligent printing software since it can further maximize your printer’s performance. Boosting printing efficiency from the inside out, intelligent software such as Zebra’s Print DNA or BarTender can lower operational costs and alleviate time-consuming bottlenecks, so your operations can continue to flow seamlessly from start to finish.

Efficient Software. Efficient Printing.

From boundless connectivity to increased label variety, your printing software holds all the potential to transform your labeling operations before the first run. That’s why Zebra’s line of industrial printers, the ZT600, ZT500, and ZT400 Series combine the expected rigor of a Zebra product along with intuitive productivity tools that:

Simplify print management – Print DNA’s management tools, like Bluetooth Printer Management, can monitor and collect actionable metrics from your printing fleet to connect them to your handheld Android device, allowing you to troubleshoot and diagnose printing issues before they create downtime.
Augment visibility – Facilitate printing with easy-to-read color dashboards that display printing health and usage rates, so you can develop better business practices.
Enhance printing security – Zebra’s PrintSecure increases productivity while providing an additional layer of security from unauthorized access and uncontrolled data exchanges.
Reduce worker wait times – Intelligent software such as BarTender can expedite label creation by letting your workforce quickly select and create records and automatically print from any device without backend modifications. Likewise, Zebra’s Print Station limits bottlenecks as workers can print directly from their Android handhelds.

Ready to revolutionize your printing system? Start by upgrading your printing fleet with the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. From now until December 31st, 2019, trade in outdated printers from any manufacturer and get cash rebates up to $550 towards your upgrade.

Valuing affordability and efficiency, Covington Barcoding provides client-centered solutions that build upon the strengths of your current operations. To see how printing software can enhance your workflow, contact our printing specialists today.

]]><![CDATA[That Printer May be Worth $550 in Rebates - That's the Zebra Trade-In Program]]>Mon, 25 Nov 2019 21:04:27 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/that-printer-may-be-worth-550-in-rebates-thats-the-zebra-trade-in-program

To survive the demanding warehouse environment, an efficient printer must go beyond simply delivering clear barcodes. Bringing unmatched durability into the supply chain, Zebra’s Xi Series printers have redefined printing efficiency with faster printing speeds, high-volume printing applications, and early warning systems for maximum uptime. While this technology continues to empower today’s warehouses, new industry demands -such as the rise in ecommerce and automation- have paved the way for newer printing technologies. Zebra’s latest ZT600 Series printers successfully tackle today’s challenges, and while they will certainly meet tomorrow’s obstacles, technology will continue to accelerate, creating new and more powerful solutions in the months to come. Although new technology surely benefits the warehouse, the same might not be said of the environment.

When it comes to outdated technology, the United States recycles an average of 12.5% of the 9.4 million tons of e-waste produced annually. With new technology appearing almost every quarter, Covington Barcoding seeks to provide efficient solutions that are both budget and eco-friendly. That’s why we recommend upgrading technology with the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Equip your workforce with the latest printing technology available while cashing in your legacy devices for a rebate towards your next upgrade.

Evaluate Your Needs

Just because your printer is still functional doesn’t mean it’s not time for an upgrade. Here are a few signs that indicate your workflow may be ready for an upgrade:

New connectivity options are available in your workspace: With new connectivity options, such as WiFi and Bluetooth, your workforce can have better access to faster prints instead of relying solely on USB. Eliminate long wait-times and bottlenecks by integrating a printer the accommodates multiple connectivity features.
Other devices have been upgraded to include touch-screen technology: Newer printers can facilitate on-boarding and minimize training times if they resemble other touch-screen devices, leading to seamless workflows.
You are considering RFID-based visibility solutions: Zebra’s latest ZT411 printers can now create metal-friendly RFID tags on demand, enhancing your current locationing system with an affordable in-house solution.
Frequent downtime and IT visits are hindering workflow: Needless to say, if your printer sees more downtime than uptime, it may be due for an upgrade since a broken printer can create an incalculable financial loss in downtime.

Enter the decade with the most efficient productivity tools available when you trade in legacy printers from any manufacturer before December 31st, 2019. Simply:

Purchase your qualified Zebra printer
Submit your reclaim form
Trade in your device

Explore the full list of eligible devices here.

Not sure where to start? Contact our printing specialists for a free assessment of your current printing needs and count on guided assistance in starting your upgrade before the year is out.

]]><![CDATA[3 Reasons why You Need Smarter Labels]]>Tue, 19 Nov 2019 17:57:13 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/3-reasons-why-you-need-smarter-labels

Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the nation’s leading delivery services -USPS, UPS, and FedEx- can deliver as much as 50 million packages a day. That means there are 50 million chances for possible mistakes per day. With each passing year, online shopping continues to increase holiday revenue. However, delivery rates seem to shorten as customers expect their packages to arrive faster. Nearly one third of American customers fear not receiving their gifts on time, and indeed, around 8% of packages handled by FedEx and UPS during the 2018 holiday season were delayed, resulting in approximately 98 million late deliveries nationwide. With only a few days before the holidays kick off, Covington Barcoding partners with Zebra Technologies to provide the best tools in preventing inaccurate and late order fulfillment.

Optimizing your Labels equals Optimizing your Supply Chain

When it comes to optimizing supply chains, your labels may not be the first thing to come to mind. Nevertheless, labels carry important identification and shipping information that is crucial to your operations. Made with pretested materials for consistent quality, Zebra’s Certified Printing Supplies can maximize your return of investment by:

Creating a reliable tracking system – Usually, when packages are lost, illegible labels are to blame. To avert the issue, Zebra’s labels rely on smear-resistant surfacing and efficient adhesives to preserve inventory information. Paired with Zebra’s handheld computers and rugged scanners, quality consumables create the perfect foundation to a reliable tracking system, so employees and customers can follow their moving assets with ease.
Minimizing financial strain associated with mis-shipments – A wrongly shipped parcel can cost anywhere between $2-$5 in return fees. Flimsy labels that can’t survive harsh environments may detach from your assets, slowing down delivery times. As a result, quality labels must not only endure application conditions, but they must also withstand the wide range of challenging environments your products may encounter.
Preventing hardware damage – Cheaply made labels lack the smooth surfacing needed to protect printheads from premature failure. A worn-down printhead increases operational costs with costly downtime and expensive printhead replacements. To maintain optimal print performance, we suggest integrating quality labels that leave less dust and residual adhesive inside your printer.

New opportunities bring new challenges, but Covington Barcoding embraces both. Equipped with thorough knowledge and the latest technological resources, we have all the tools you need to start preparing your operations for the seasonal rush with technology built to last.

]]><![CDATA[Enhance Productivity with Zebra Custom Labels]]>Tue, 12 Nov 2019 17:11:00 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/enhance-productivity-with-zebra-custom-labels

What could you fit in 4.3 million square feet? Boeing uses this massive space to assemble their newest line of airplanes. While it may seem easy to imagine multiple ways to use the largest warehouse in the world, it is even easier to imagine what you could lose in it. As warehouses and distribution centers grow, the need for proper identification grows with them. As a matter of fact, identification and compliance labels play a large role in keeping big warehouses, like Boeing’s aircraft factory, functional.

As a Zebra Business Partner and Supplies Specialist, Covington Barcoding implements warehouse identification with Zebra Custom Labels since they stand as the most adaptable solution for growing enterprises. Sourced from four labeling converting facilities across the U.S., Zebra Custom Labels meet needs faster while delivering continuous performance throughout your warehouse.

Covington Barcoding implements warehouse identification with Zebra Custom Labels

Resolve the Identity Crisis

From rack labels to hazard warnings, your labeling system should minimize confusion and errors by improving operational visibility. To give you the widest range of options, Zebra’s lets you customize:

Label composition – Build labels from over 300 pre-tested materials to meet unique application requirements.
Preprinted text and graphics – Mark your labels with artwork that strengthens your brand identity.
Label color – Select from 12 water-based colors with PMS color matching to create visual cues that facilitate identification and compliance labeling.
Perforations and slit arrangement – Adjust printing speed with different perforation styles to match your printing needs.
Roll or fan-fold – Whether it be instant tags or eco-friendly continuous labels, choose between roll and fan-fold labels to expedite printing operations.
Adhesive and coating type – Preserve your printer with printhead-friendly adhesives and coating varnishes that leave behind less debris.

Securing the safety of both your inventory and your workforce, new labeling systems must adapt to incorporate business growth. Tested through heat, cold, and chemical exposure, Zebra labels ensure consistent quality from run to run, helping to protect your operations from misplaced assets, surprise downtime, and unsafe working conditions.

For more information on how Zebra Custom Labels can benefit your business, speak with our label specialists for a solution centered on your needs.

]]><![CDATA[Optimized Labels Leads to Optimized Printing]]>Wed, 06 Nov 2019 17:30:00 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/optimized-labels-leads-to-optimized-printing

Not all labels are made the same. With dozens of different uses, labels diversity is not only inevitable but valued by your most dynamic operations. However, label versatility may lead to increased processing inaccuracies, for unique applications demand unique label qualities.

To reduce labeling costs, companies may choose bargain labels; nevertheless, poorly crafted consumables can end up costing you more as they lead to:

Scratched printheads due to their sandpaper surfacing.
Smudged inks since materials aren’t designed for continuous heat.
Slower loading times as bargain labels are not designed for specific printers.
Printer jams caused by excessive adhesive and debris buildup.

Valuing operational efficiency, Covington Barcoding explores the benefits of matching unique applications to unique consumables. Just as application requirements differ from case to case, label composition should also adjust to match your labeling needs.

Reliable quality comes from the inside out

Whatever their directive may be, your labels are contain valuable information meant to last beyond the moment of application. As e-commerce expands the warehouse into the most remote environments, labels must remain readable in previously unimaginable circumstances such as drastic freezing temperatures, chemical exposure, or intense humidity. Therefore, instead of selecting one over-arching labeling solution, we recommend building your strategy with Zebra’s Certified Supplies while focusing on three major points.

Environment Resistance – Before application, labels must endure the extreme heat of thermal printing. Furthermore, depending where your labels will go, they must also survive humidity, extreme storage temperatures, and light-exposure. As with most of their products, Zebra Technologies continuously tests its consumables outdoors and indoors, enhancing inventory tracking as your labels venture beyond the four walls.
Surfacing Texture – While it may seem contradictory, labels can be too rugged to function properly. Rough label surfaces can scratch printheads, leading to premature printhead failure and higher operation costs. Smooth quality labels minimize downtime as they extend printer lifespan with less debris pileup.
Material Versatility – A reliable label supplier should offer different sorts of labeling materials in order to fulfill unique applications. Zebra Certified Consumables stand as a prime example of material versatility since labels can be designed using over 300 pretested materials for consistent specialized quality. Furthermore, Zebra’s custom labels open more room for adaptability as you can design a fitted labeling solution centered on your needs.

Leverage label diversity to your advantage when you optimize with Covington Barcoding. Start your own label assessment when you download our infographic and design an individualized labeling solution with Zebra Certified consumables. For more assistance in creating your optimized label, contact our labeling specialists.

]]><![CDATA[Direct Thermal or Thermal Transfer? Understand the Difference with Covington.]]>Wed, 30 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.covingtonbarcoding.com/blog/direct-thermal-or-thermal-transfer-understand-the-difference-with-covington

To ensure optimal label performance, it is crucial to match your application to the correct printing method. A simple misunderstanding between common printing methods and label endurance can result in damaged printheads, ruined barcodes, and frequent unnecessary downtime. Implementing efficient labeling solutions for a wide variety of clients, Covington Barcoding dives into the differences between two prevalent printing methods: thermal transfer printing and direct thermal printing.

Simply put, the difference between thermal transfer and direct thermal printing lies in heat application. Thermal transfer requires a heated ribbon that transposes melted ink into the label. Direct thermal printing does not require a ribbon as heat presses against heat-sensitive media to create barcodes. Furthermore, both sustain 1D/2D barcode symbologies, graphics, and texts. While similar, certain considerations must be noted before selecting your preferred printing method.

Exploring the Tale of Two Printers

Both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing have proven highly efficient in and out of the warehouse as they lower operational costs while delivering crisp barcodes. However, depending on your labeling goals, one method may not readily fit your workflow, which is why Covington has gathered three ways heat-based printing optimizes productivity.

Benefits of Thermal Transfer Printing:

Long-lasting media – Because ink seeps into the media, thermal transfer printing expands label lifespan as media survives prolonged heat and light exposure. Create lifeline identification labels and durable tags that survive beyond application temperatures and warehouse conditions.
Device versatility – Most thermal transfer printers such as Zebra’s ZT600 industrial printers can print with both thermal transfer and direct thermal processes. Eliminate confusing workflows by streamlining all your printing needs into one rugged printer made for rugged environments.
Media Variety – Unlike direct thermal printing, thermal transfer systems can use a wide range of label materials such as paper, polyester, and polypropylene, giving your labels greater functionality and durability. Plus, with Zebra’s Certified Consumables, labels can be crafted using over 300 pre-tested materials, further boosting label adaptability.

Benefits of Direct Thermal Printing:

Cost-effective Solution – Eliminating the need for a ribbon, direct thermal printing reduces ownership costs since you only need to purchase the heat-sensitive media. Create quick-use labels at faster printing speeds for a more focused workflow.
Less maintenance downtime – Without ribbons, your printer faces less scheduled downtime since supplies don’t have to be reloaded. Save an average of 100 hours per year spent on replenishing ribbons. Plus, reduce your business’ overall carbon footprint with less printing waste.
Greater printing mobility – With the lack of ribbons comes greater mobility. Direct thermal printers, like Zebra’s ZQ600 can be more compact in size, making them ideal for your mobile workforce.

Printing solutions don’t have to be overly complicated. As a Zebra Business Partner, Covington Barcoding provides close assistance in selecting quality printing media as well as durable hardware to strengthen your printing system. Count on tested expertise when you reach out to our labeling specialists for a for a free consultation of your current labeling system and implement a solution that best fits your needs.

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