A point-of-sale (POS) system is only as effective as the consumables it uses. While terminals, scanners, and printers are the foundation, without the right supplies, your operation can grind to a halt.
Here we explain why consumables are a vital part of your operation and how to choose the right ones.
1. Thermal Paper Rolls: The Heart of Your Receipts
Thermal printers , so popular in businesses today, rely on a special type of paper: thermal paper . This paper is coated with a substance that changes color when exposed to heat, creating the receipt without the need for ink.
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Choose the Correct Size: Thermal paper comes in different sizes, such as 57 mm and 80 mm. It is crucial that you purchase the size that corresponds to your printer model to avoid jams and incomplete printing.
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Paper Quality: Low-quality thermal paper can leave residue that damages your printer's print head in the long run. Invest in good-quality rolls to protect your equipment and ensure your receipts are legible.
2. Labels: The Key to Organization and Inventory
Label printers are essential for organizing your inventory, labeling products, and generating shipping labels. The quality of the label directly impacts barcode readability and the durability of the information.
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Direct Thermal Labels: These are ideal for barcodes and short-term shipping labels. Make sure they are the correct size and material for your printer.
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Thermal Transfer Labels: If you need labels that can withstand heat, abrasion, and other environmental factors (such as in a warehouse), choose these labels and the accompanying ink ribbon.
Using the correct labels is crucial so that your barcode scanner can read them without problems, which speeds up your inventory operations.
3. Ribbons: The Essential Consumable for Durability
Thermal transfer printers, which we mentioned earlier, use an ink ribbon to print onto the label. There are different types of ribbons:
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Wax ribbons: These are the most common and economical. Ideal for printing on coated paper.
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Resin Tapes (Resin): Offer the greatest durability and resistance, ideal for plastic or synthetic labels that must withstand extreme conditions.
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Wax/Resin Tapes: A blend that offers a good balance between quality and strength.
Using the correct tape for your type of label ensures that the print is clear and long-lasting.
Don't Skimp on Consumables
It may seem like a minor detail, but choosing the wrong consumables can lead to costly problems, from premature wear and tear on your equipment to lost sales due to illegible receipts.
