Use barcode scanning throughout SKULabs to make inventory and order management workflows faster, easier, and more accurate. You can use a barcode scanner all throughout the app including receiving, counting, order picking verification, and more.
Choosing barcode scanners for your team
Over 99% of barcode scanners support an "HID" compatibility, "Basic", or "HID Mode", which simply uses the scanner as a keyboard, so most USB or bluetooth barcode scanners work just fine with SKULabs–regardless of whether you're on a desktop or mobile device.
USB scanners are recommended for desktops and laptops, while wireless Bluetooth scanners are recommended for mobile devices.
Scanning with a mobile device camera
SKULabs designers and developers have worked extensively with warehouse teams around the world to find what works and what does not. In our testing, we have found that barcode scanning with a smartphone or tablet's rear camera is not up to the demand of a full-time E-commerce business.
How to connect scanners
To connect your USB scanner to a desktop or laptop:
Plug the barcode scanner into an available USB port on the computer. The computer should recognize the device right away.
Open a text editor or web browser and select an input area where you can type and enter text.
Scan an available product barcode and confirm that the barcode's value correctly appears in the selected input area.
To connect your Bluetooth scanner to a tablet or smartphone:
Ensure that the scanner is in "Basic mode" or "HID mode", if applicable.
Power on the scanner and make sure it is discoverable (unpaired).
Turn on Bluetooth from your mobile device's settings and scan for devices.
Ensure your Bluetooth scanner is discoverable, this varies with each device but can typically be enabled by holding a combination of scanner buttons for a number of seconds and restarting the device.
In the list of found devices, tap the device ID that matches the scanner to pair it. The scanner should beep or otherwise signal that it has paired successfully.
On the device, open a note app or web browser and select an input area where you can type and enter text.
Scan an available product barcode and confirm that the barcode's value correctly appears in the selected input area.
Using a scanner with Shopify POS connect
Shopify POS configures devices in a way that only Shopify POS can see the scans, preventing the rest of your device from making use of the scanner.
If the same device will be used both for SKULabs and for Shopify POS, be sure to set your scanner to HID mode and connect directly to the device via the standard device bluetooth settings. Avoid using Shopify POS's in-app hardware connection steps.
Scanning in SKULabs:
You can scan by clicking into any text field for verification or search and scanning a barcode.
How to open your keyboard
On Android, there is an on-screen option to show your keyboard while using a bluetooth keyboard. On iOS there are a few tricks to open your keyboard.
Troubleshooting scanners
If you are encountering issues with scanning in SKULabs: