Author: scanflow

Categories
label capture

5 Warehouse Challenges Solved by Scanflow Pick and Pack Solution

Warehouse worker using Mobile Device with Scanflow SDK for Pick and Pack process.

In today’s high velocity supply chain, warehouse operations face pressure to meet rising order volumes, shorten delivery times, and eliminate errors all while maintaining cost-efficiency. Yet, many organizations still rely on manual or semi-automated pick and pack processes that can’t keep pace with operational demands.

Scanflow’s Pick and Pack Automation addresses these inefficiencies through a smart, AI system that brings accuracy, speed, and system-level integration into warehouse workflows. Below, we explore five common challenges warehouses face and how Scanflow solves them.

Challenge 1: Picking Errors and Mislabeling

The Challenge: Manual picking is one of the most error-prone processes in a warehouse. Misselected items, wrong quantities, and labeling mistakes lead to customer dissatisfaction, product returns, and additional handling costs. 

How Scanflow Solves It: Scanflow uses AI-driven computer vision to validate every item as it’s picked. The system checks against order data in real-time, ensuring the right SKU and quantity are selected. It also automates label generation and placement, reducing human error and guaranteeing that every item is packed and tagged correctly before dispatch.

Challenge 2: Slow Fulfilment and Dispatch Delays

The Challenge: As order volumes grow, manual processes can’t scale fast enough. Fulfilment teams struggle to meet tight timelines, and dispatch delays become inevitable especially during peak periods. 

How Scanflow Solves It: Scanflow speeds up the entire pick and pack cycle by providing guided workflows, real-time verifications, and automated decision points. Operators are directed through optimized picking paths, and AI instantly verifies items before packing. This ensures orders move faster through the warehouse without sacrificing accuracy, helping businesses consistently meet SLA deadlines. 

Challenge 3: Lack of Workflow Synchronization Across Warehouse Systems 

The Challenge: Many warehouse operations suffer from disconnected systems  where picking, inventory, packing, and order management tools function in isolation. The lack of end-to-end visibility causes delays, miscommunication, and inefficient workflows. 

How Scanflow Solves It: 
Scanflow is built for seamless integration with existing WMS, ERP, and inventory platforms. Its API-first architecture enables real-time data exchange across warehouse functions, aligning the picking, verification, and packing steps into a single, unified process. This synchronization improves coordination, reduces manual intervention, and ensures every action is tracked and recorded across systems. 

Challenge 4: Inefficient Packing and Material Waste 

The Challenge:
Packing inefficiencies such as selecting the wrong carton size, packing items in the wrong sequence, or using excess filler lead to material waste, damaged products, and higher shipping costs. 

How Scanflow Solves It:
Scanflow optimizes packing operations by using AI-assisted logic that selects the ideal packaging based on item dimensions and order requirements. Operators receive packing guidance on-screen, and the system verifies contents before sealing. This minimizes packaging waste, reduces damage risk, and ensures every box is prepared for safe, efficient shipping.

Challenge 5: Lack of Real-Time Visibility and Tracking 

The Challenge: Manual processes offer limited insights into order status, picking accuracy, and workforce productivity. Managers are left guessing when problems occur and discovering issues only after a shipment fails or a customer complains. 

How Scanflow Solves It: With Scanflow, every step from pick to pack is digitally tracked and logged. Managers get real-time dashboards and visual audit trails, allowing them to monitor orders, identify bottlenecks, and resolve issues proactively. Integration with WMS and ERP systems ensures consistent data visibility across platforms, enabling better decision-making and operational control.

Conclusion 

Manual pick and pack operations are no longer sustainable in today’s fulfillment environment. Errors, delays, siloed systems, and lack of visibility not only slow down operations but also increase costs and customer dissatisfaction. 

Scanflow’s Pick and Pack Automation offers a comprehensive, integrated solution that eliminates inefficiencies and builds resilience into warehouse operations. With vision-based verification, AI-guided workflows, and seamless system integration, it helps enterprises unlock higher speed, accuracy, and scalability exactly what modern supply chains demand. 

Categories
Logistics

How to Automate Container Tracking and Yard Operations in Truck Transportation

A logistics Manager scanning the container on its damage details.

In today’s freight and transportation industry, the ability to track container movement in real time and maintain visibility across multiple operational stages has become critical. With complex workflows involving port pickups, cargo stripping, yard storage, and final dispatch, logistics managers can no longer rely on manual data entry and shared Excel files to manage operations.

Scanflow mobile scanning SDK solution brings a practical, scalable, and easy-to-adopt answer to these challenges helping freight and trucking companies eliminate inefficiencies, reduce errors, and gain complete control over container and cargo workflows.

Manual Processes, Limited Visibility

In many freight logistics setups, container tracking is still a manual process. Operations teams typically update Excel sheets to record when a container is pulled from the port, stripped at the yard, or dispatched to its destination. But with multiple teams involved drivers, yard staff, and administrators this approach leads to:

  • Inaccurate status updates
  • Human errors
  • Lack of real-time visibility
  • No traceability for split shipments
  • Poor damage documentation
  • Compliance issues in FTZ (Foreign Trade Zone) areas

These pain points are not just operational bottlenecks they directly impact efficiency, customer satisfaction, and compliance outcomes.

Mobile Scanning for Container & Yard Operations

Scanflow SDK offers a mobile-first solution that automates container tracking and cargo management across freight workflows. Without disrupting existing systems, the platform integrates easily with tools already in use making digital adoption seamless.

Key Features of Scanflow’s Yard Management Solution

1. Real-Time Container Status Updates

Drivers and yard staff can scan container numbers at each stage port pickup, yard arrival, stripping, dispatch instantly updating the status without manual data entry. These updates reflect in protected spreadsheets or dashboards, ensuring accuracy and access control.

2. QR Code-Based Cargo Tracking

Once cargo is stripped, the system auto-generates a unique QR code for each consignment. These are printed and attached to cargo, enabling continuous tracking within the yard or during dispatch.

3. Photo & Video Capture for Damage Claims

Using their mobile devices, staff can capture images or videos of cargo damage or irregularities. These files are securely stored and linked via URLs for future audits, claim support, and reporting.

4. Split Shipment Traceability

Scanflow allows linking of sub-units or pallets back to the original container, enabling full traceability even for split shipments.

5. Role-Based Access and Login Options

The system supports role-based login for drivers, yard staff, and admin teams using OTPs or email. This ensures data access is restricted and user actions are traceable.

6. Built for Harsh Yard Conditions

The solution supports rugged hardware, waterproof QR labels, and scanning tools built to function in dusty, dim, or outdoor environments.

Business Benefits for Freight & Trucking Companies

Implementing Scanflow’s mobile scanning SDK solution provides measurable improvements across yard and container operations:

  • 80% reduction in manual data entry
  • Real-time container and cargo visibility
  • Simplified damage reporting and audit trails
  • Improved FTZ compliance through accurate inventory records
  • Faster turnaround times with less administrative effort
  • Scalability to integrate AI vision systems or analytics in future

Why Logistics Managers Are Choosing Scanflow

Scanflow is purpose-built for logistics-heavy environments, where speed, accuracy, and visibility are non-negotiable. It’s not just about scanning barcodes it’s about streamlining workflows, empowering teams on the ground, and ensuring every move is traceable, timestamped, and auditable.

Whether you’re managing a single yard or a nationwide freight network, Scanflow gives you the tools to move fast without losing control.

Ready to Automate Your Yard Operations?

If you’re still relying on spreadsheets and manual status updates, it’s time to upgrade. Scanflow’s container tracking and yard management solution is the fastest way to bring automation, visibility, and compliance to your freight operations without the headache of complex software setups.

Categories
Tire Sidewall

How Tire Scrap Yards Are Going Paperless with Mobile AI Scanning

Tire scrap yards have long depended on manual workflows clipboards, handwritten DOT codes, and inconsistent documentation. These outdated methods slow operations, introduce errors, and limit visibility. 

Scanflow Scrap Tire Scanner an AI mobile solution that allows yards to go fully paperless. By instantly capturing TIN, DOT, brand, and model data from tire sidewalls, Scanflow empowers scrap yards to streamline operations, improve compliance, and boost efficiency with the tap of a screen. 

What Is the Scanflow Scrap Tire Scanner? 

The Scanflow Scrap Tire Scanner is a mobile AI tool that digitizes the identification of scrap tires. Using advanced Visual Intelligence the scanner reads sidewall information DOT codes, TIN numbers, size, and manufacturer data even on worn or damaged tires. 

With Scanflow SDK, this scanning capability can be embedded into mobile apps or any backend systems, enabling real-time asset identification without manual entry. 

Why Tire Scrap Yards Are Choosing Scanflow 

Manual tire tracking is no longer sustainable in high-volume environments. Paper-based systems introduce risk and inefficiencies: 

  • High error rates in DOT/TIN recording 
  • Lost paperwork in yard environments 
  • Slow recall response times 
  • Compliance challenges 

With Scanflow, tire yards gain a paperless, real-time system that ensures accurate sidewall scanning, digital traceability, and operational clarity no pens, no paperwork, no guesswork.

How Scanflow Works in a Tire Yard Workflow 

Scanflow fits seamlessly into existing operations: 

  • Operators scan tire sidewalls using a mobile device equipped with Scanflow’s SDK. 
  • AI instantly reads and extracts critical tire information (TIN, DOT, brand, size). 
  • The data is timestamped, validated, and logged digitally. 
  • Information syncs to cloud databases or local servers for immediate access and recall traceability. 

This system supports both online and offline environments, perfect for remote yards or high-throughput zones. 

Technology Behind the Scanflow Advantage 

Scanflow Visual Intelligence tuned specifically for tire sidewalls. Our models are trained on thousands of tire images from leading brands, giving scrap yards unmatched accuracy even in dusty or low-light conditions. 

Key features include: 

  • High-accuracy sidewall scanning
  • Compatibility with smartphones, tablets, and rugged devices 
  • Edge-based processing for offline use 
  • Seamless integration with any backend systems via Scanflow’s SDK 

With Scanflow, yards get real-time intelligence, scalable infrastructure, and easy onboarding without the need for physical barcodes or RFID tags. 

Benefits of Going Paperless with Scanflow 

Scrap yards using the Scanflow Scrap Tire Scanner report dramatic improvements: 

  • Up to 80% reduction in entry errors 
  • 55% faster tire intake and dispatch 
  • Real-time visibility into aging inventory 
  • Enhanced recall readiness through digital DOT/TIN tracking 
  • Labor cost savings and increased throughput 

By digitizing the asset identification process, Scanflow boosts efficiency while reducing risk and regulatory exposure.

Implementation Made Easy

Scanflow offers plug-and-play SDK, making implementation smooth and scalable:

  • Compatible with Android & iOS devices 
  • Modular APIs for ERP, inventory, and logistics platforms 
  • Edge/cloud options for flexibility 
  • Hands-on technical support and documentation 

Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or building from scratch, Scanflow ensures a fast, efficient transition to paperless scanning.

The Future of Tire Yard Digitization with Scanflow 

As digital transformation accelerates, Scanflow is leading the way with: 

  • AI-driven sorting lines with real-time tire data feeds 
  • Voice-activated scanning for hands-free operation 
  • Predictive analytics for optimizing inventory cycles 
  • Carbon footprint tracking for sustainability compliance

With ongoing innovation, Scanflow enables scrap yards to stay compliant, competitive, and future-ready. 

Conclusion 

Scanflow Scrap Tire Scanner is transforming how tire scrap yards operate bringing paperless precision, AI automation, and real-time traceability to a traditionally manual industry. 

For yards looking to modernize and future-proof their operations, Scanflow offers the most scalable, intelligent, and field-proven solution on the market today. 

Ready to eliminate paperwork and boost tire yard performance?
Talk to the Scanflow team today. 

Categories
Tire Sidewall

Scan Tire DOT Numbers with Your Smartphone: Fast & Accurate Tire Identification

If you’ve ever had to manually record or verify the DOT number on a tire, you know how tedious and error-prone it can be. Whether you’re a tire retailer, fleet operator, or auto technician, tracking tire data is essential for recall safety, compliance, and asset identification. Thankfully, mobile technology has caught up and now you can scan tire DOT numbers with your smartphone using powerful tools like Scanflow. 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about scanning tire DOT numbers with your phone, and how solutions like Scanflow make this process lightning-fast, highly accurate, and perfect for enterprise applications. 

Understanding DOT Numbers and Tire Identification

The DOT number, also called the TIN (Tire Identification Number), is a string of alphanumeric characters stamped into the sidewall of a tire. It reveals critical information such as: 

  • Manufacturer and plant code 
  • Tire size and batch 
  • Date of production (week and year) 

This code is regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and is vital for identifying tires in case of recalls, for warranty purposes, or for asset registration in business systems.

Why Scan DOT Numbers with a Smartphone? 

Traditionally, capturing DOT numbers involved manual typing or paper logs prone to mistakes and time delays. Using a smartphone for tire scanning offers: 

  • Speed: Instant data capture and extraction. 
  • Accuracy: Eliminates manual entry errors. 
  • Convenience: No special scanners or hardware required. 
  • Scalability: Perfect for tire retailers, fleets, or logistics providers managing thousands of tires. 

With this method, you’re not just scanning  you’re digitally identifying assets and creating traceable records with just a phone in hand.

Introducing Scanflow for Asset Identification and Tire Scanning 

Scanflow AI asset identification SDK empowers smartphones and tablets to perform high-accuracy tire scanning using built-in cameras. Designed for speed and reliability, it recognizes DOT numbers and additional sidewall data even under tough conditions worn treads, uneven lighting, and more. 

Key features of Scanflow tire scanning: 

  • Detects DOT/TIN, serial number, tire size, model. 
  • Uses AI to capture low-contrast or damaged codes. 
  • Fully functional offline, great for warehouses or field conditions. 
  • Integrates with apps, ERPs, or inventory systems. 

By combining asset identification with tire scanning, Scanflow turns smartphones into powerful data collection tools.

Step-by-Step Guide: Scanning DOT Numbers with Your Smartphone 

Step 1: Open Your Scanflow-Enabled App

Ensure your mobile app integrates the Scanflow SDK. Launch it to begin scanning. 

Step 2: Align the Camera with the Tire Sidewall

Position your phone so the entire DOT number area is visible within the screen. Use built-in framing guides for precision. 

Step 3: Capture the DOT Code

The Scanflow engine will automatically detect and extract the DOT/TIN from the sidewall using real-time image processing. 

Step 4: Review Captured Data

Details like manufacturing week/year and tire plant code will be shown. Confirm accuracy before proceeding. 

Step 5: Export or Sync Data

Store it locally, sync with your cloud platform, or push directly into your ERP, WMS, or CRM system.

Best Practices for Reliable Tire Scanning

To get the best results with smartphone-based tire scanning: 

  • Clean the tire surface before scanning. 
  • Use adequate lighting, or enable the camera flash. 
  • Hold your phone steady and perpendicular to the sidewall. 
  • Scan both sides of the tire sometimes the DOT appears on only one side. 
  • Train your system using Scanflow’s custom recognition models for better results in specific environments. 

Real-World Use Cases and Business Benefits 

Tire Retailers & Repair Centers

Quickly register every tire sold or installed. Meet compliance requirements for warranties and recalls. 

Fleet Management & Logistics

Digitize asset identification for tires across multiple vehicles and locations, streamlining inspections and replacements. 

Manufacturing & Quality Control

Automate the capture of DOT numbers during production and inspection, reducing manual labor and errors. 

Insurance & Claims Assessment

Accurately document tire data for claims, damage inspections, or accident reports.

With Scanflow, these businesses achieve faster processing, higher accuracy, and better traceability all while reducing operational costs.

Conclusion

Smartphone based tire scanning isn’t just the future it’s here now. With Scanflow, you can instantly and accurately capture DOT numbers, turning every tire into a digitally traceable asset. From fleet tracking to retail compliance, Scanflow asset identification transforms how tire data is captured, managed, and leveraged for business success.

Talk to the Scanflow team today. 

 

Categories
Barcode scanning

How to Eliminate Label Scanning Errors in High Volume Warehouses

A warehouse operator uses a mobile device to scan a barcode label on a package, demonstrating Scanflow’s asset identification solution in a high-volume warehouse environment

In the high stakes world of high volume warehouses, label scanning accuracy isn’t just important it’s mission-critical. Whether managing order fulfilment, inventory tracking, or cross-docking, every second and scan counts. Yet, many operations face the ongoing challenge of label scanning errors that trigger mis-picks, misrouted packages, inventory mismatches, and operational slowdowns.

Scanflow’s asset identification solution is transforming the warehouses with the technology to eliminate scanning errors with precision, scalability, and intelligence.

Understanding the Root Causes of Label Scanning Errors

Before you can fix scanning issues, you must understand their origin. The most common culprits include:

  • Poor Label Quality: Faded, scratched, or low-resolution labels are common in harsh warehouse environments.
  • Inconsistent Label Placement: Scanners fail to read codes placed at inconsistent angles or obstructed surfaces.
  • Format Variability: Using different barcode types or encoding schemes leads to recognition failures.
  • Environmental Conditions: Glare, shadows, and low light disrupt scanner performance.
  • Manual Errors: Human factors like incorrect manual inputs or skipped scans contribute to inaccuracies.
  • Outdated Equipment: Legacy scanners may lack the responsiveness or range needed for dynamic workflows.

Best Practices to Prevent Scanning Errors

Even before adopting advanced solutions like Scanflow, the following foundational practices reduce scanning failures significantly:

1. Standardize Label Formats

  • Use uniform barcode types, font sizes, and color contrasts.
  • Add quiet zones (blank space around barcodes) to ensure clean reads.

2. Use Durable Label Materials

  • Choose thermal transfer or weatherproof labels resistant to heat, abrasion, and moisture.

3. Optimize Label Placement

  • Affix labels to flat, clean surfaces with consistent orientation across bins, racks, and boxes.

4. Improve Lighting Conditions

  • Enhance visibility in scanning zones by eliminating glare and shadows.

5. Conduct Routine Quality Audits

  • Implement daily spot checks and regular accuracy audits to detect patterns and lapses.

How Scanflow’s Asset Identification Solution Solves Scanning Errors

Scanflow elevates warehouse operations beyond the limitations of traditional scanning systems. Here’s how it virtually eliminates label scanning errors:

1. AI Powered Scanning Engine

  • Scanflow leverages AI algorithms to recognize barcodes, QR codes, VINs, and text even if damaged, distorted, rotated, or partially obscured. It delivers over 98% accuracy in challenging environments.

2. Versatile Identification Capabilities

  • It supports a wide range of identifiers: barcodes, serials, batch numbers, capturing real-time data with millisecond precision.

3. Real Time Exception Detection

  • Operators receive immediate alerts when duplicate scans, incorrect items, or missing tags are detected before errors escalate into operational losses.

4. Easy Integration

  • Scanflow connects seamlessly with major ERP and WMS systems like SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft Dynamics via SDK making rollout fast and scalable.

5. Built for High-Volume Zones

  • From fast paced sorting hubs to dispatch lanes and cross-docks, Scanflow’s mobile and fixed deployments maintain performance under pressure.

Quantifiable Impact: Proven Benefits of Scanflow

Warehouses implementing Scanflow have reported:

  • 75%+ reduction in scan-related errors and misroutes
  • 98%+ scanning success rate across all label types
  • 30–50% faster scanning time compared to legacy tools
  • Improved traceability, batch management, and compliance
  • Higher staff efficiency due to reduced error handling

Conclusion

High-volume warehouse operations can no longer afford the ripple effects of label scanning errors. With evolving customer demands and shrinking delivery windows, precision is the new productivity.

Scanflow AI Asset Identification SDK solution empowers warehouses to eliminate scan-related issues with agility, intelligence, and integration ensuring every scan tells the right story.

Want to see how Scanflow can elevate your warehouse? Schedule a demo today.

Categories
label capture

How Scanflow AI SDK Transforms Barcode and QR Code Scanning

Scanflow mobile app scanning barcode and QR code on warehouse packages for asset identification and inventory management

In today’s fast paced digital economy, accurate and lightning fast scanning of barcodes and QR codes is crucial across industries like retail, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare. Traditional scanning solutions often struggle with poor lighting, damaged codes, or varying angles. Enter Scanflow AI SDK, a game changer that redefines how businesses approach barcode and QR code scanning, delivering robust performance, speed, and flexibility.

What is Scanflow AI SDK?

Scanflow AI SDK is an advanced software development kit designed to empower mobile and enterprise applications with smart barcode and QR code scanning capabilities. Unlike traditional scanning engines, it leverages artificial intelligence and deep learning to deliver superior results in complex scanning scenarios.

Key Features That Set Scanflow AI SDK Apart

1. AI-Powered Decoding Engine

The heart of Scanflow AI SDK is its AI-driven engine, which:

  • Recognizes damaged, blurred, or distorted barcodes and QR codes.
  • Processes scans rapidly, even on low-end devices.
  • Works reliably under challenging lighting conditions.

This AI capability ensures high accuracy and minimizes scanning errors that can disrupt workflows.

2. Multi-Code and Bulk Scanning

Modern industries often need to scan multiple codes simultaneously for instance, picking multiple items in a warehouse or verifying batches of products. Scanflow AI SDK:

  • Scans multiple barcodes or QR codes in a single frame.
  • Reduces operational time dramatically.
  • Enhances user convenience in high-volume environments.

3. Wide Barcode Format Support

Scanflow AI SDK isn’t limited to a few common formats. It supports over 30 barcode and QR code symbologies, including:

  • 1D barcodes like Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, and UPC.
  • 2D codes like QR Code, Data Matrix, Aztec, and PDF417.

This flexibility makes it suitable for diverse applications across global markets.

4. Offline Functionality

In logistics, retail, or field operations, internet connectivity isn’t always guaranteed. Scanflow AI SDK works fully offline, allowing users to:

  • Scan codes without needing a cloud connection.
  • Protect sensitive data by processing locally on the device.
  • Ensure smooth operations in remote areas.

5. Easy Integration Across Platforms

Scanflow AI SDK supports major development frameworks:

  • iOS and Android native apps
  • Cross-platform tools like Flutter, React Native, and Xamarin
  • Web applications via WebAssembly

Its clean API and lightweight footprint mean developers can integrate it quickly without bloating their apps.

Benefits of Using Scanflow AI SDK

Businesses adopting Scanflow AI SDK experience several advantages:

  • Increased Productivity: Faster scans reduce wait times and boost efficiency.
  • Cost Savings: Accurate scans lower the risk of costly errors and rework.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Smooth scanning leads to better app usability and user satisfaction.
  • Future-Proof Solution: AI keeps improving, allowing businesses to stay ahead of technological trends.

Real-World Applications

Scanflow AI SDK is revolutionizing scanning across industries:

  • Retail: Quick checkouts, inventory management, and digital loyalty cards.
  • Logistics & Warehousing: Bulk scanning for faster picking, packing, and shipping.
  • Healthcare: Secure scanning of medication barcodes to prevent errors.
  • Manufacturing: Tracking parts and production processes seamlessly.

Why Choose Scanflow AI SDK Over Traditional Scanners?

Traditional barcode and QR code scanners often:

  • Fail in poor lighting.
  • Struggle with damaged codes.
  • Require expensive dedicated hardware.

Scanflow AI SDK overcomes these limitations by:

  • Using AI to interpret imperfect codes.
  • Running on everyday smartphones and tablets.
  • Delivering enterprise-grade performance without specialized hardware costs.

Conclusion

Scanflow AI SDK is transforming how businesses handle barcode and QR code scanning, offering unparalleled speed, accuracy, and adaptability. Its AI-driven capabilities help companies streamline operations, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional user experiences.

If you’re building apps requiring reliable scanning, Scanflow AI SDK might just be the competitive edge you’re looking for.

For more details, visit Scanflow AI SDK and explore how it can elevate your scanning solutions.

Categories
Logistics

The Ultimate Guide to Automating Asset Identification in Warehouse and Logistics Operations

Scanflow mobile scanning app for logistics with barcode and QR code features, shown in a warehouse setting.

Introduction

In today’s complex supply chains, AI-powered asset identification capturing barcodes, serial numbers, or QR codes is critical. Traditional manual scanning and entry are slow, error-prone, and costly. Scanflow’s AI-based Asset Identification SDK eliminates these constraints, enabling rapid, accurate, and automated asset identification via mobile and stationary devices.

Challenges in Modern Warehousing & Logistics

  • Manual entry errors lead to miscounted and incorrectly logged inventory.
  • Weak real-time tracking delays reconciliation and fulfilment.
  • Poor label readability – damaged, rotated, or obscured codes hinder accuracy.
  • Operational inefficiencies escalate costs and disrupt workflows.
  • Compliance risks due to misrouting or missing asset data.

Scanflow’s Asset Identification Solution Can Scan

Scanflow’s AI-powered Asset Identification SDK supports a wide range of use cases tailored to various industry needs:

  • Tire Sidewall Scanning: Identify and trace tires by reading TINs and embossed data.
  • VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Scanning: For automotive logistics and inventory tracking.
  • License Plate Recognition (LPR): Monitor dock entries, yards, and fleet movements.
  • Shelf Scanning: Retail shelf-level inventory validation and stockout prevention.
  • Label Scanning: Reads printed or handwritten labels.
  • Barcode & QR Code Scanning: Supports 1D/2D codes, even when damaged or rotated.
  • Serial Number Scanning: Extracts alphanumeric IDs for asset tracking.

Core Use Cases & Workflows

  • Inbound & Receiving: Verifies shipment labels at docks, reducing misroute error rates and enhancing real-time asset tracking.
  • Sorting & Cross‑Docking: Scans packages swiftly in high-throughput zones, supported by warehouse automation tools.
  • Inventory Management & Reconciliation: Accurate cycle counts, put-away, and real-time WMS updates enhance warehouse inventory scanning.
  • Exception Handling & Safety: Detects duplicates, misplaced assets, or missing tags for quick corrective action, boosting automated asset identification accuracy.

Technical Advantages of Scanflow’s SDK

  • 98%+ accuracy in varied conditions makes it one of the most reliable AI for logistics and supply chain operations.
  • Seamless integration with ERP/WMS/CRM platforms: SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, D365.
  • Enables offline scanning on mobile, tablet, fixed stations, drones, and cameras making it ideal for dynamic logistics environments.

Real‑World Impact & KPIs

  • Up to 75% reduction in misrouting and verification delays.
  • 98%+ scan success in poor lighting; 30–50% faster reads than legacy scanners.
  • Cost savings and minimized regulatory fines for pharma and industrial sectors real gains through real-time asset tracking.

Industry Applications

  • Pharma & regulated industries: Automates batch number and expiration date scanning with full traceability.
  • Automotive & industrial: Captures VINs, tire TINs, component codes on-the-fly, supporting automated asset identification.
  • Retail & e‑commerce: Enables shelf scanning, POS verification, and counterfeit detection for logistics barcode scanning.
  • Manufacturing: Integrates serial/OCR scanning into production lines for quality control and traceability using AI-powered asset identification.

Best Practices for Adoption

  • Choose deployment: mobile SDK for flexible use cases or fixed stations for high-throughput zones.
  • Train AI with facility-specific labels for accuracy.
  • Use seamless integrations into ERP/WMS for real-time sync and better warehouse automation tools.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Scanflow’s Asset Identification SDK transforms warehousing and logistics by significantly improving speed, accuracy, traceability, and cost efficiency. If you’re looking to elevate your operations to a higher standard of automation and reliability, consider reaching out to Scanflow for a demo.

FAQs

Q1: How does AI improve accuracy in asset identification?
AI enables real-time recognition of barcodes, serial numbers, and printed text even in tough conditions like poor lighting, low print quality, or curved surfaces. It reduces manual errors and ensures consistent, high-accuracy scanning across operations.

Q2: What types of assets can Scanflow identify?
Scanflow supports a wide range of asset types including barcodes, QR codes, serial numbers, license plates, VINs, tire sidewalls, product labels, and shelf inventory all processed through a unified AI scanning engine.

Q3: Can AI handle damaged or rotated labels effectively?
Yes Scanflow reads damaged, rotated, or low-light barcodes with over 98% success.

Q4: What integrations are available?
Compatibility with SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Dynamics 365, and can be deployed via mobile SDK, IoT cameras, or edge devices.

Categories
Tire Sidewall Text Scanning

How AI Scanner Help Capture TIN and DOT Numbers to Enable Smarter Tire Tracking

In 2020, A Tire Company recalled over 90,000 tires due to potential belt separation. The recall listed partial DOT codes, forcing fleet operators and dealers to manually inspect thousands of tires scrubbing faded sidewalls, jotting TINs on paper, and verifying records by hand.

This isn’t a one-off event. Tire recalls affect millions of units every year, yet most businesses still rely on manual TIN/DOT tracking, leading to slow response times, grounded vehicles, and compliance risks.

Why TIN and DOT Codes Matter More Than Ever

TIN and DOT numbers are more than regulatory labels they are essential for tire traceability, asset identification, and recall readiness. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that a large portion of tire recalls are traceable only through accurate DOT codes.

Without efficient tire identification, service providers and fleet managers face real risks: delays, data errors, and overlooked recalls that can affect safety and compliance.

The Problem: Manual Tire Data Capture Slows Everyone Down

The issue isn’t availability of tire data it’s that manually reading and recording TIN and DOT codes is inefficient, especially on dirty, curved, or worn sidewalls. In fast-paced environments like automotive service centers, tire yards, and distribution depots, expecting technicians to write down codes or use spreadsheets simply doesn’t scale.

One missed or misread code could allow a recalled tire to remain in service risking both safety and regulatory violations.

The Solution: AI Mobile SDK for Tire Identification

Modern solutions like AI scanner mobile SDKs are transforming how tire identification is done. Instead of relying on manual transcription, service teams can now scan tire sidewalls using AI-powered mobile tools that automatically capture TIN and DOT codes even in poor lighting or on aged tires.

The Scanflow Asset Identification Mobile SDK allows OEMs, fleet operators, and service providers to embed intelligent scanning into their own apps or workflows. With it, teams can identify tires instantly and digitally enabling faster recalls, more accurate audits, and smarter inventory tracking without any paperwork.

Conclusion

TIN and DOT codes might be small, but they carry enormous weight when it comes to safety, traceability, and operational efficiency. By using Asset Identification Mobile SDK, automotive businesses can eliminate human error, respond to recalls faster, and make every tire inspection count.

Is your team still relying on eyes and clipboards to track tire safety?

Discover how Scanflow AI can help digitize and automate tire inspections from TIN/DOT scanning to instant digital logging. Request a demo or get in touch

Categories
Barcode scanning

How to scan barcodes in low light or with damaged codes using AI

Smartphone scanning barcodes on packages in a warehouse, displaying successful detection of rotated, low-light, and damaged labels using Scanflow AI Asset Identification.
smartphone scanning barcodes on packages in a warehouse, displaying successful detection of rotated, low-light, and damaged labels using Scanflow AI.

Low light, damaged labels, and rotated barcodes aren’t rare exceptions they’re part of the daily grind in logistics, retail, and warehousing. These conditions slow teams down and break most traditional scanning systems.

Scanflow AI Asset Identification is made for exactly these real-world challenges. Built for speed and accuracy, it consistently outperforms legacy scanners in fast-moving, high-volume environments where precision can’t wait.

1. Low-Light Scanning

Scanflow reads barcodes even in poorly lit warehouses, dim corners of storage units, or night-time field operations. It compensates for shadows, glare, and motion blur—making it ideal for mobile or fixed-camera use cases.

2. Damaged or Partially Obscured Labels

Where traditional scanners fail, Scanflow succeeds. It can interpret:

Torn or scratched barcodes

Smudged, faded, or dirty labels

Codes covered by plastic or partially blocked

This ensures high readability even during rugged use across supply chains.

3. Rotated and Misaligned Barcodes

Scanflow’s AI Asset Identification can decode barcodes regardless of their orientation sideways, upside down, or curved around surfaces. This flexibility eliminates the need to manually realign items for scanning, saving time and reducing errors.

Where Scanflow Stands Out

Scanflow is designed for environments where speed, accuracy, and tough conditions are the norm:

For logistics teams, it eliminates delays caused by unreadable barcodes on moving cartons and pallets.

For retail operations, it enables seamless shelf and POS scanning, regardless of packaging shape or label condition.

For delivery and warehouse workers, Scanflow acts as a top barcode scanner that performs even under poor lighting or inconsistent label placement.

It’s not just about reading codes it’s about improving throughput, reducing scan failures, and enabling automation at scale.

Mobile SDK for Seamless Integration

Scanflow offers a lightweight, developer-friendly Mobile SDK for iOS and Android that brings its AI barcode scanning capabilities directly to any mobile device. Whether integrated into your warehouse management app or a last-mile delivery workflow, the SDK ensures:

Fast, accurate scans using the device camera

Support for real-time processing under variable lighting

Robust performance on damaged, distorted, or rotated barcodes

Easy integration with minimal code and full documentation

With Scanflow’s SDK, you can turn any smartphone into an enterprise-grade AI scanner, drastically cutting hardware costs while scaling with ease.

Proven Results

Companies using Scanflow have reported:

Over 98% scan accuracy in poor conditions

30–50% faster processing speeds

Reduced scan retries and manual interventions

Better visibility and tracking across supply chain workflows

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Whether you’re modernizing warehouse processes, managing field logistics, or enhancing retail operations, Scanflow delivers the speed and reliability expected from a top AI barcode scanner.

Explore our capabilities or request a demo.

Categories
Quality control Defect Detection Manufacturing

Real Time Defect Detection with AI on the Line

Engineer in a car manufacturing plant using a mobile device to identify a defect detected by Scanflow’s AI-based in-line quality control system

“Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.” — Henry Ford

In the high-stakes world of automotive manufacturing, precision is everything. A single undetected flaw on the assembly line can lead to product recalls, regulatory issues, or damaged brand reputation. Yet, many factories still depend on manual inspection or end-of-line testing often too late to prevent the problem.

Today, more manufacturers are turning to AI-powered in-line quality control, where defects are detected and flagged in real time, during production. This article explains how Scanflow’s Quality Control solution enables real-time defect detection and how it’s transforming production lines across the automotive industry.

The Problem with Traditional Quality Control

Historically, automotive plants have depended on end-of-line inspection, manual visual checks, and random sampling. These methods catch problems only after the part is built, are prone to inconsistency and fatigue, and may completely miss intermittent defects. This reactive approach results in increased rework and waste, delayed issue detection, and the risk of customer-facing failures. A study by McKinsey estimates that up to 70% of defects in manufacturing go unnoticed until late in the process — often when it’s too costly to fix.

What is In-Line AI-Based Quality Control?

In-line quality control refers to the practice of inspecting components as they move through the production line. With AI and computer vision, this inspection is automated, fast, and highly accurate — operating without disrupting production speed. These systems can scan parts for flaws, analyze images in milliseconds, and alert operators when a defect is found. This proactive model helps manufacturers contain quality issues early and reduce defect-related costs dramatically.

How Scanflow’s AI QC Solution Works

Scanflow deploys both fixed and mobile inspection systems powered by AI and computer vision, trained using thousands of annotated images from specific parts and components. Cameras are installed at key points across the production line, capturing images of components as they pass through. AI algorithms detect abnormalities like cracks, burrs, deformation, or foreign particles. Real-time alerts are pushed to dashboards or operator screens, and all inspection data is logged for traceability and process improvement.

Key Benefits of Real-Time In-Line Quality Control

AI systems enable continuous inspection of 100% of production output, ensuring no part goes unchecked. Defects are caught as soon as they occur, allowing immediate intervention and preventing process drift. These systems deliver consistent performance 24/7 without fatigue or distraction. Every inspection is logged and visualized, offering insights that improve upstream processes. Early detection also reduces rework costs, scrap, and downtime.

Types of In-Line Inspections Enabled by AI

Visual surface inspection is ideal for identifying cracks, scratches, and contamination on metal casings, painted parts, or injection-molded components. Dimensional accuracy checks help verify hole positions, gaps, and alignments on complex assemblies like gear housings or dashboards. Assembly verification ensures the presence and proper installation of fasteners, connectors, labels, and seals. Anomaly detection allows the system to recognize unknown or rare flaws by understanding what normal looks like, adapting to process drift over time. This inspection model provides the flexibility to scale across different component types without building isolated systems.

Fast, Scalable Implementation

Scanflow offers rapid deployment with pre-trained models and can be tailored to specific parts and processes. It integrates easily with MES, ERP, and dashboard systems. With minimal hardware and a powerful SDK, manufacturers can go live in under 30 days and start detecting defects from day one.

“You can’t improve what you don’t measure.” — Peter Drucker

With Scanflow, you don’t just measure quality you act on it instantly.

Why Real-Time In-Line QC is the Future

As the automotive sector moves toward smart factories, traditional methods are giving way to agile, AI-driven systems. Manufacturers now understand that quality assurance works best when it’s embedded directly into the line. If you’re still relying on end-of-line inspections or random sampling, it’s time to modernize. In-line AI QC helps avoid rework, meet OEM compliance, and improve overall production efficiency.

Ready to Detect Defects Before They Become a Problem?

Start with the right technology:

Explore Scanflow’s Quality Control Solution

See how it works in automotive manufacturing

Connect with our team for a tailored walkthrough of your plant needs.

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