Organized inventory labeling isn’t just about neat shelves. It’s about accuracy, speed, and control.
Whether you manage a small stockroom or a large warehouse, the right labeling process can save hours every week and prevent costly errors.
Here’s everything you need to know to label your inventory efficiently, including the best tools, printers, and label materials.
🏷️ 1. What Does It Mean to Label Inventory?
Labeling inventory means attaching stickers or tags that identify and track every item in your stock.
These labels typically include:
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Product name or SKU
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Barcode or QR code
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Serial number or ID
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Storage location code
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Optional: company name or “Property of” text
👉 Explore Custom Inventory Labels - made with metalized silver polyester for permanent, high-contrast readability.
⚙️ 2. How to Label Inventory Step by Step
Step 1: Choose a Label Format
Decide between barcode, QR code, or plain ID labels depending on your tracking system.
Step 2: Assign Unique IDs
Never reuse numbers — every item or container should have its own unique code.
Step 3: Print Labels In-House
With a GoDEX thermal transfer printer, you can print high-quality, fade-resistant inventory stickers whenever needed.
Use GoLabel software for layout and serialization.
👉 GoLabel Software – GoDEX
Step 4: Apply Labels Consistently
Always place labels in the same spot, the top-right corner, side panel, or near the barcode zone.
Step 5: Scan and Record
Once applied, scan your labels into your system to update quantities and locations in real time.
🧾 3. What Software Does Target or Amazon Use for Inventory?
Large companies often use enterprise solutions like Oracle NetSuite, SAP, or Zoho Inventory.
However, small to mid-size businesses can achieve excellent results with:
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GoLabel (free with GoDEX printers)
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Sortly
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inFlow Inventory
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Google Sheets with barcode integration
The key is to pick software that integrates easily with your barcode or QR code printer.
🧠 4. Can a Regular Printer Print Labels?
Technically, yes, but it’s not ideal.
Inkjet or laser printers use standard paper labels, which can smudge, fade, or peel under heat and moisture.
Thermal transfer printers, like GoDEX 203 or 300 DPI models, are built for industrial-grade durability — perfect for inventory environments.
🔗 GoDEX 203 DPI Printers
🔗 GoDEX 300 DPI Printers
🧩 5. Label Materials for Long-Lasting Durability
Inventory labels must survive more than just storage — they face handling, cleaning, and even chemicals.
That’s why McAuley recommends:
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Metalized Silver Polyester – tear-proof and waterproof
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3M Heavy-Duty Adhesive – for textured or powder-coated surfaces
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Synthetic Materials – for flexible applications
Each is precision-cut for GoDEX printer compatibility and crisp barcode scanning.
🏆 6. Best Practices for Efficient Labeling
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Keep label templates standardized
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Use color coding for categories (optional)
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Replace damaged or unreadable labels immediately
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Maintain a backup list of all serial numbers
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Print extra rolls in advance for new stock
Consistency is the secret to accuracy.
💡 7. Why McAuley Labels?
McAuley’s custom inventory stickers combine professional print quality, industrial durability, and fast production times — all made in the USA and shipped nationwide.
From QR code inventory labels to serialized barcode rolls, every sticker is built to last.