Welcome to a new episode of The New Warehouse Podcast! In today’s episode, Cliff Hardesty, the Marketing Director at Barcode Depot, joins the show. Barcode Depot, a family-owned company established in 1996, specializes in repairing and refurbishing barcoding equipment for various industries. Cliff and Kevin dive into warehouse equipment maintenance and explore how repair and refurbishment services can benefit operations in the long run.

The Value of Repair and Refurbishment in the Warehouse Industry

During economic downturns and periods of high inflation, many companies tend to stretch the lifespan of their equipment to cut costs. In warehouse operations, maintaining and replacing equipment can be a significant expense. Hardesty sheds light on the common practice of replacing damaged RF equipment and shares how Barcode Depot identified an opportunity in the market. He states, “We noticed that many customers were simply replacing their equipment when it broke down. We realized that by offering repair services, we could extend the lifespan of their existing equipment and help them save costs.”

How Barcode Depot Extends the Equipment Lifespan

One of the top advantages of repair services is the ability to extend the life of RF equipment. Hardesty emphasizes that Barcode Depot has customers using the same equipment for 10 to 15 years, thanks to their repair expertise. He explains, “We can exponentially expand the lifespan of current equipment, enabling customers to save money by avoiding costly replacements.” Additionally, the discussion touches on the benefits of refurbished equipment, which is an affordable alternative to buying new. Hardesty shares how Barcode Depot came through for a recent customer by finding refurbished mobile computers instead of new ones, saving them $15k, and delivering assurance with a six-month warranty.

Barcode Depot on Implementing a Successful Repair Program

Hardesty explains how Barcode Depot ensures a seamless repair experience for its customers. He highlights the expertise of their experienced team of technicians who possess in-depth knowledge of various equipment models. Barcode Depot also maintains a stockpile of commonly needed parts, allowing them to provide quick turnaround times for repairs. Hardesty emphasizes that their average turnaround time is within a week, compared to the month-long process often associated with sending equipment back to OEMs. Hardesty underscores the importance of quick repairs to minimize operational disruptions in supporting warehouse operations.

Key Takeaways

• Repairing equipment is typically 25% cheaper and offers a cost-effective solution compared to outright replacements.
• Effective equipment repair can significantly expand its lifespan, resulting in considerable savings for warehouse operations.
• Opting for refurbished equipment is not only a cost-effective choice but also ensures faster delivery and comes with warranties, all without sacrificing functionality.

EP 391: Barcode Depot Saves Warehouses Time and Money