If you run a Shopify store, keeping track of inventory is one of the biggest challenges. Right now, most retailers use barcode scanners to count inventory. But barcodes have some big problems.
The Barcode Problem
Counting inventory with barcodes is slow and difficult. Every item must be scanned one by one. This means picking up items, unfolding clothes, and digging through boxes to find the barcode to scan. If you have thousands of items, this can take hours or even days!
On average, a barcode inventory audit can take 8-12 hours per store. That’s a full day of work to count products. And mistakes happen—if someone skips a barcode or scans the wrong one, your numbers will be off. Research shows that the average accuracy for retail inventories using barcodes is 65-73%.
A Faster, Smarter Solution with RFID
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) makes tracking inventory much easier. Instead of scanning one item at a time, RFID lets you count hundreds of items in seconds without even touching them. This technology improves inventory accuracy to 98-99%.
- You can count inventory while standing several feet away.
- Items in closed boxes, on high shelves, or folded neatly can still be scanned.
- No need to unfold clothes or dig through storage bins.
- Scanning an entire store can take minutes instead of hours.
The Power of Serial-Level Tracking
With advanced inventory tracking, every item has a unique serial number. This means Shopify retailers get exact data on what’s in stock, what’s selling, and what’s missing—no more guessing or inaccurate reports.
Why is item-level tracking important? Businesses can track:
- Cost of an item – Know exactly how much was paid for each piece.
- Expiration or Sell-by dates – Ensure perishable items don’t go to waste.
- Lot numbers – Track batches of products for quality control.
- Order numbers – Quickly locate and verify shipments.
- Serial numbers – Essential for product warranties or recalls.
What You Need for a Smarter Inventory System
Upgrading to a modern inventory system is easy and only requires a few key components:
- Software – Must integrate with Shopify to sync inventory data.
- Handheld or Fixed Scanner – Detects product tags from a distance.
- Printer – Used to create specialized labels for your products.
- Smart Stickers—These look like normal adhesive stickers but contain a hidden microchip and antenna under the paper face. The microchip and antenna save and transmit the tag’s information.
Printing one of these smart stickers is just like printing any other sticker. Once your items are tagged, you’ll unlock all the benefits of seamless tracking!
Smarter Order Management
Have you ever shipped the wrong product by accident? A smarter system lets you verify package contents without opening the box. A quick scan confirms if the order is correct before it ships, reducing returns and unhappy customers.
The Future of Retail Inventory Tracking
The world’s biggest brands and retailers already use RFID technology to improve the entire shopping experience:
- Smart Mirrors – Stores like Nike use interactive mirrors that recognize items customers bring into the dressing room and suggest matching products or promotions.
- Faster Checkout – Instead of scanning barcodes one by one, a checkout station can scan an entire cart instantly.
- Theft Prevention – Smart tracking can detect if an unpaid item leaves the store, triggering security alerts.
- Find Missing Items Fast – If a product is lost, a scanner can guide employees with audio and visual cues to locate it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes RFID better than barcode scanning for inventory tracking?
RFID counts items faster and more accurately, reaching 98-99% accuracy. Unlike barcode scanning, you don’t have to handle items individually, even when they’re boxed or shelved.
Can RFID integrate smoothly with my Shopify store?
Yes, RFID solutions typically offer software designed specifically for Shopify integration, allowing hassle-free real-time syncing of inventory data.
Are RFID tags expensive to implement for retailers?
RFID smart stickers are very affordable, typically just pennies per tag. The initial setup cost is quickly recovered through improved efficiency and reduced labor.
What equipment do I need to use RFID?
You’ll need RFID-specific handheld or fixed scanners and a printer for smart stickers. These components are user-friendly and straightforward to integrate into your existing workflow.
Can RFID tracking help reduce shipping mistakes?
Absolutely. RFID allows you to quickly verify order contents without opening boxes, reducing shipping errors, returns, and unhappy customers.
Are other Shopify retailers successfully using RFID tracking?
Yes, many Shopify retailers have already adopted RFID tracking. Major brands like Nike, Walmart, and Nordstrom have demonstrated their value, significantly boosting accuracy and operational efficiency.
The Future is Now
Retailers like Dillard’s, Nordstrom, and Walmart already require suppliers to use this advanced inventory technology. Brands like Nike and Victoria’s Secret tag their products from the factory to improve tracking and smooth operations. Shopify retailers who adopt this inventory management process now will stay ahead of the competition.
Are you still counting product inventory with barcodes? Upgrade your inventory management today with SimpleRFID, which is integrated seamlessly with Shopify for lightning-fast, ultra-accurate tracking. Say goodbye to tedious barcode scanning and hello to precise inventory control in seconds. Book a demo now and discover how easy inventory management can be!
