When your business is getting ready to expand or build a new warehouse facility, at what point do you consider the importance of the labels that need to be installed in the facility? Whether you're upgrading your Warehouse Management System (WMS), moving to a new ERP platform, expanding your facility, or building from the ground up, one crucial element often gets overlooked until it’s almost too late: warehouse labeling.
Labeling or relabeling a warehouse isn’t something that can be squeezed in at the end of a project. In fact, most successful warehouse projects begin planning the labeling strategy months before the go-live date. Doing so ensures accuracy, efficiency, and seamless operational flow from day one.
Here’s why early planning matters, and how it sets your entire warehouse project up for success.
Proper labeling is foundational to warehouse accuracy, speed, and productivity.
Why Labeling Needs to Be Planned Early
A warehouse labeling project typically takes 6–18 weeks from initial planning through final installation, depending on the complexity, the number of labels, and the data file to be used. That timeline includes surveying, design, production, quality checks, and the full installation of labels and signs across your facility.
When labeling is left to the last minute, the project becomes rushed, which can lead to mistakes, delays, improper location names, incorrect sequencing, unscannable barcodes, or labels that aren’t compatible with new technology.
Planning ahead means:
- Your labeling aligns with new ERP/WMS location logic
- Your team has time to adjust layouts before labels are finalized
- You avoid costly reprints or rework
- Installers can be scheduled around your operational needs
- Your go-live stays on track
Labeling isn’t a finishing touch. It’s a critical path task.
Technology Upgrades Require Updated Labels
If you're implementing or updating an ERP or WMS, such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Infor SCM, Tecsys WMS, and more, your warehouse locations may change. New systems rely heavily on:
- Consistent naming conventions
- Updated location logic
- Scannable, high-quality barcodes
- Retro-reflective labeling where required
- Clear aisle and zone signage
Older or worn labels often don’t scan reliably with modern devices, and visually inconsistent labels can slow down picking and put-away processes. Planning labeling early ensures your new system rollout isn’t held back by something as simple as incompatible barcodes.
New Construction or Expansions: Labeling Needs a Head Start Too
If you're expanding your warehouse or building a new facility, labeling must be incorporated into the construction timeline, not added afterward. New facilities typically mean planning new racking, locations, workflows, and signage requirements.
Label lead times matter. Many projects underestimate how long it takes to design, produce, and install labels for tens of thousands of locations. The earlier you plan, the smoother your go-live week will be.
Step 1: The Planning Phase
A labeling specialist or floor design engineer begins with a full facility survey to evaluate:
- Rack conditions
- Aisle heights
- Number of rack levels
- Required label and sign quantities
- Color, size, and placement needs
- Scannability requirements
- Technology compatibility
This step provides a detailed estimate and ensures nothing is missed. Starting this at least 6-18 weeks before your target date ensures enough time to finalize layout decisions, incorporate system changes, and avoid delays.
Step 2: Design & Production
Once the plan is approved and data files are provided, the design team begins producing every label, sign, placard, and marker your warehouse requires. This phase includes:
- Sequential ordering to simplify installation
- Color coding based on your workflow
- 1D or 2D barcodes based on your scanning equipment
- Quality checks on every printed piece
Production time varies by facility size, but planning ahead guarantees everything is ready when your installation window arrives.
Step 3: Professional Installation
Proper installation is just as important as proper labeling. Professional installers will work around your operating hours and bring their own equipment and lifts to get the work done. Professional installers ensure labels adhere correctly and will validate scannability and visibility throughout the facility. Skipping professional installation, or waiting too long to schedule it, can add days or weeks to your project.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Label Installation at the Last Minute
Labeling a warehouse can involve tens of thousands of labels with extremely precise sequencing. Even small mistakes can disrupt operations, such as:
- Incorrect location naming
- Misaligned or unscannable labels
- Labels not compatible with scanning devices
- Wrong colors, sizes, or placements
- Safety issues when installing overhead signs
- Reprints that delay your go-live
Early planning avoids these problems and preserves your internal labor for what matters most. Have the work done right the first time by a professional.
Your Warehouse Project’s Success Depends on Early Label Planning
Proper labeling is foundational to warehouse accuracy, speed, and productivity. If your labels or signs are outdated, or if you're upgrading systems or expanding your space, early planning ensures everything is ready when you need it. Starting your labeling project 6-18 weeks early can help keep your go-live on schedule while preventing costly mistakes.
Let the specialists at Imprint ensure your warehouse is labeled correctly the first time, ensuring compatibility with modern technology to minimize operational downtime. Get a smooth transition into your new or improved space.
Imprint Enterprises has over 50 years of experience, helping clients determine the best options their business needs, providing the greatest ROI. Imprint’s professional services portfolio has grown over the years, starting with the deployment and servicing of on-demand label printing systems and incorporating:
- BarTender integration services
- SOTI & 42Gears deployment and management services
- Wireless site-surveys and installation
- Application development and deployment
- Mobile device deployment
- IM², IM² PLUS, and IM² MAX remote support services
Contact Imprint Enterprises today to begin planning your labeling project and keep your warehouse transformation on track.
