BarTender

Introduction

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and distribution environments, efficient barcode labeling is essential for tracking inventory, managing production, and maintaining accuracy throughout the supply chain. By integrating Seagull Scientific’s BarTender label printing software with Epicor Kinetic, businesses can simplify and automate barcode label printing directly from their ERP system. This integration offers flexibility, reduces manual entry, and improves overall accuracy.

In this post, we’ll walk through the benefits and steps of integrating BarTender with Epicor Kinetic to print barcode labels effortlessly.

Why Integrate BarTender with Epicor Kinetic?

  1. Automated Label Printing: Trigger label printing directly from ERP workflows without manual intervention.
  2. Increased Accuracy: Pull data directly from Epicor so labels stay current and consistent.
  3. Customization & Flexibility: Design labels that meet industry standards including GS1, UDI, and other compliance requirements.
  4. Scalability: Adapt to new product lines, label types, and printing workflows with minimal effort.

Key Features of BarTender Label Printing

  • User-Friendly Design Interface: Create and customize labels quickly using BarTender’s design tools.
  • Powerful Integration Tools: Supports API and file-based integration methods.
  • Compliance Ready: Supports standards for manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and logistics.

Setting Up the Integration: Step-by-Step

1. Configure BarTender Label Templates

  • Design barcode labels in BarTender with fields populated by Epicor (product codes, serial numbers, lot information).
  • Save templates in a designated folder for easy reference.

2. Set Up Epicor Kinetic Data Fields

  • Identify data fields BarTender will use — part number, lot number, quantity, and related values.
  • Map fields correctly to match BarTender templates.

3. Select Your Integration Method

  • File Drop Method: Epicor generates a trigger file with label data that BarTender reads — simple and suitable for batch printing.
  • API Integration: BarTender’s RESTful API enables real-time label generation for complex needs.

4. Configure the Trigger for Printing

  • Set up Epicor workflows (data directives or BPM rules) to trigger printing on events such as receiving, shipping, or production completion.
  • Ensure each trigger sends the correct data via file drop or API.

5. Test the Integration

  • Verify correct information on each label and expected print triggers.
  • Test different label types and large batches; adjust templates or mapping as needed.

6. Go Live and Monitor

  • Roll out to live operations and monitor initial performance.
  • Adjust triggers or templates for peak performance.

Best Practices

  • Keep Templates Updated as product details or barcode standards evolve.
  • Leverage Data Validation in Epicor to minimize incorrect labels.
  • Utilize Security Controls so only authorized users can modify templates or trigger printing.

Conclusion

Integrating BarTender with Epicor Kinetic streamlines barcode labeling and improves operational efficiency. By automating label generation with accurate, real-time ERP data, businesses can enhance inventory management, reduce labeling errors, and scale with confidence — while improving traceability and compliance in regulated industries.

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