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Pallet Barcode Scanning: From Packing Labels to Carton-Level Verification
In the logistics and supply chain industry, barcodes are applied at every level of packaging — from the largest containers down to the smallest retail units — to support traceability, handling, and inventory control. Barcode scanning happens at all these levels and is essential for ensuring inventory accuracy and the smooth flow of goods through warehouses, distribution centers, and shipping hubs.
In this article, we’ll focus on barcode scanning at the pallet level, a critical step in modern logistics workflows.
Two Types of Barcode Scanning for Pallets
Pallet scanning refers to the process of reading data from barcodes affixed to or associated with a pallet at strategic points in the logistics chain — such as loading docks, staging areas, or warehouse entrances. This can be done manually using handheld scanners or smartphones, or automated using fixed scanning systems.
There are two key types of barcode scanning when it comes to pallets, each serving a specific purpose in verifying inventory and shipment accuracy.
1. Scanning the Pallet Label or Packing List
Every pallet is typically labeled with a Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), encoded in a GS1-128 barcode. This unique identifier is used to represent the pallet as a logistics unit. In addition to the SSCC, the label may also display critical details such as:
- Product ID
- Quantity
- Batch or lot number
- A list of carton IDs or serial numbers
Use Dynamsoft Barcode Reader to Scan the Packing List in One Go
Dynamsoft Barcode Reader (DBR) is optimized for high-density barcode recognition. Its Best Coverage mode processes each image with a comprehensive set of algorithms to ensure all barcodes are detected — even if they are small, close together, or printed in different formats.
Unlike typical scanners that rely on predefined symbologies, DBR’s algorithms are barcode-format independent, enabling fast and accurate decoding of mixed-format labels (e.g., Code 128 + Data Matrix) without configuration changes.
By scanning the pallet label with DBR, warehouse staff can quickly link the physical pallet to a digital packing list in the warehouse management system (WMS). This enables fast check-in, verification, and assignment to storage or shipment workflows. However, this step alone doesn’t confirm whether the listed cartons are actually present.
2. Batch Scanning the Cartons on the Pallet
To validate the actual physical contents of the pallet, logistics teams often perform carton-level batch scanning. Instead of scanning cartons one by one, workers use batch scanning software to capture dozens of barcodes in a single scan — even when they’re densely packed or partially overlapping.
This process is critical for:
- Verifying all expected cartons are present
- Detecting missing, extra, or duplicate items
- Ensuring compliance with traceability and serialization regulations
Use Dynamsoft Batch Barcode Scanner to Scan All Cartons in One Go
Scanning all cartons on a pallet can be challenging due to the large area and angle limitations of handheld devices. The Dynamsoft Batch Barcode Scanner iOS app solves this by letting users scan the pallet section by section. Each scan frame is stitched together into a giant panoramic image, preserving barcode positions and visibility.
Barcodes are automatically decoded and highlighted visually in the result. Users can then compare the decoded carton IDs against the expected list from the packing label to identify discrepancies instantly.
Panoramic Image as an Audit Record
In addition to real-time verification, the stitched panoramic image generated by the Dynamsoft Batch Barcode Scanner can also serve as a visual audit record. Warehouses and logistics providers can store the image alongside shipment data to maintain a clear record of what was scanned and when — providing traceability and accountability for future inspections or compliance checks.
Improved Efficiency – Up to 80% Time Saved
Compared to traditional handheld scanners, Dynamsoft’s scanning solutions drastically reduce the time required for pallet inspection. While a manual scanner may require several minutes to check each carton individually, Dynamsoft’s batch scanning approach allows the same task to be completed in seconds, saving up to 80% of operational time.
| Method | Time to Scan 30 Cartons | Accuracy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual Scanner (1-by-1) | 3–5 minutes | Medium | Labor-intensive |
| Dynamsoft Batch Scanning | < 30 seconds | High | Fully automated stitching and decoding |
Getting Started
Want to see how Dynamsoft’s barcode scanning technologies can improve pallet verification in your logistics workflow?
Book a meeting with our team to explore the solution in action, get technical guidance, and start a free trial.