Warehouse labelling
Planning warehouse labels and shelf signs correctly
Guides
Planning warehouse labels and shelf signs correctly
Every storage location needs a unique address. Well-planned warehouse labels combine easy-to-read text with reliable scanner data capture – for racks, aisles, block storage and parking spaces.
Request warehouse labelling
1. Define a uniform address system
Define the order of attributes, e.g. area – aisle – bay – level – position. A possible scheme is A-03-012-02-01 for area A, aisle 03, bay 012, level 02 and position 01.
Use fixed digit counts, document the counting direction and agree characters, leading zeros and separators with your warehouse management system. Plan reserves for extensions.
2. Choose the material for the application
| Application | Possible version | Check beforehand |
|---|---|---|
| Rack beam | Self-adhesive or magnetic shelf label | Substrate, adhesion, exchangeability |
| Aisle or block storage | Hanging sign of plastic or aluminium composite | Reading distance, fixing, viewing angle |
| Floor with vehicle traffic | Floor label with protective system | Abrasion, shear forces, floor coating |
| Freezer area | Labels suitable for cold | Application and service temperature |
| Changing occupancy | Magnetic labels or insert holders | Magnetic substrate, secure fixing |
3. Plan plain text and barcode together
- Choose large, high-contrast text and short, unique names.
- Do not convey information by colour alone – add text or symbols.
- Agree barcode type (e.g. Code 128, QR, DataMatrix) and content with WMS and scanners.
- Respect quiet zones and do not distort the code.
- Test reading distance, lighting and angle on site; for long reading distances test code size, print quality, label material and long-range scanners together.
- Use arrows on multi-level racks for clear assignment.
4. Prepare print data in a structured way
Create one record per label – useful columns are location address, plain text, barcode content, arrow direction, colour, format and quantity. Format fields with leading zeros as text in Excel and check for duplicates.
Example row: A-03-012-02-01 | A-03-012-02-01 | A-03-012-02-01 | arrow up | black/white | 100 × 40 mm | 1 pc.
5. Approve proof and sample
Before series production, check spelling, completeness, counting direction, colours and arrows. A sample must be readable from the intended distance and reliably scanned with your devices. Test adhesion and cleaning resistance – for floor labels especially under pallet truck and forklift traffic.
Renewing existing labels
Exchangeable systems suit changing information. When removing old labels, consider substrate and cleaner compatibility. Opaque cover labels are an alternative if the old label is sound.
Matching products
Warehouse & Storage Location MarkingShelving Systems & Storage TechnologyWarehouse Organization & Storage SystemsHinweis- & Informationsschilder
Frequently asked questions
More guides
Request warehouse labelling
Send your data list, photos of the location, formats, material, barcode type and scanner model – installation support on request.
This information is a general overview and does not replace applicable regulations, manufacturer instructions and your risk assessment.
Stock & Custom Solutions
Standard range from stock plus made-to-order solutions to your specifications.
Personal Expert Consultation
Direct contact with our experts – we find the technical solution for your problem.
Brand Quality
Products from renowned manufacturers – certificates and declarations of conformity per product on request.
Delivery DE & Nordics
Reliable delivery to Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland – Austria and Switzerland on request.