Barcodes vs QR Codes in EZO: A Simple Guide to Asset Tagging

EZO simplifies asset tracking with Barcodes and QR Codes. These tags let you quickly identify and manage assets using your smartphone or compatible scanners. You can create these tags from your EZO account using the Print Labels module.

This blog helps you select the best option for your organization with tips on commercial printing and best practices. 

What are Barcodes and QR Codes in EZO?

The table below outlines the key differences between Barcodes and QR codes in EZO.

Here’s a list of recommended hardware integrations for barcode and QR Code scanning.

2. Commercial printing for Barcodes and QR Codes

EZO supports commercial label printing through external tools and partnerships. Here’s how:

2.1 System-generated URLs

EZO provides system-generated URLs that you can use with third-party software to generate QR Codes. To access these URLs, go to

1. Settings → Commercial Printing Labels → Enabled 
2. More → Customize → Printout Templates → Export Items Print Label Data for Commercial Printing

You will receive a list of URLs for each asset or group of assets you choose to print labels for. Place these URLs in a third-party QR Code printing software, and your label will be ready for use. 

2.2 Third-party provided identification numbers

If you are using barcodes or QR codes from a third-party provider with an alpha-numeric sequence, copy and paste the Identification Numbers (alpha-numeric sequence) from the QR code/Barcode into the AIN field in the Item details page. 

You can do this by going to Items → Assets/Asset Stock/Inventory → Select Item → Edit. Once the AIN is recorded, EZO will recognize the label upon scanning, allowing you to take action on the item. 

2.3 External partnership with BarcodeShack

EZO partners with BarcodeShack to provide seamless print solutions and ensure quick and easy scanning. As mentioned above, EZO allows the integration of identification numbers (as AINs) for both Barcodes and QR Codes, as well as the export of URLs for QR codes. These can then be printed using compatible printers and durable print labels provided by BarcodeShack for efficient scanning.

To learn about scanning hardware and commercial print labels tailored to EZO, contact BarcodeShack from here. 

IMPORTANT: We strongly recommend confirming label compatibility with EZO before purchasing bulk external Barcodes or QR Codes. To do so, please share their samples with our team for testing. If your print labels involve multiple types or formats, ensure you provide a sample for each type to ensure seamless testing and integration. Alternatively, if giving samples isn’t feasible, contact us at support@ezo.io to discuss other options or specific concerns.

3. Best Practices

To leverage barcodes and QR Codes to their maximum potential, follow these guidelines: 

Barcodes:

• Size: Use barcodes with a minimum size of 1.5 x 0.5 inches for reliable scanning. 
• Readability: Ensure the barcode size is compatible with your device’s camera to ensure perfect scanning. 
• Style and readability: Use ladder-style barcodes (vertical alignment) for easy readability. The readability of the barcode depends on your device’s capability rather than the app.  
• Use asset identification numbers: We recommend printing your asset’s AIN or Asset # on the barcode label for quick identification and visibility.
• Set up: Barcodes are generated from Identification Numbers (AINs). Make sure to edit/create a printout template to include barcodes. 

QR Codes:

• Size: Use QR Codes of at least 1×1-inches to avoid scanning errors.
• Quality: Get high print quality with black-on-white color schemes for maximum clarity. 
• Durability: For assets that are used outdoors, use weatherproof materials to avoid wear and tear. 
• Set up: QR Codes are generated from unique URLs. Make sure to edit/create a printout template to include QR Codes. 

That’s it! You are ready to use Barcodes and QR Codes in EZO.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in data capacity between barcodes and QR codes?

QR codes store far more information (URLs, long strings) while barcodes are limited (often just IDs). Use QR where you need richer metadata. 

Which is better when tags might get damaged or dirty?

 QR codes are more resilient — error correction makes them readable even when partially damaged. Barcodes tend to fail more if lines are scratched.

Do QR codes scan faster than barcodes in the field?

Not always: QR codes scan faster with cameras/phones and from angles; barcodes are faster with dedicated scanners in ideal conditions. Depends on device & environment.

Are barcodes cheaper or easier to manage than QR codes?

 Barcodes generally cost less to print/simple encode; QR codes may need better printers/materials (if containing more info) and higher image quality. 

Which code works better outdoors or in harsh environments?

QR codes — due to error correction and their ability to remain readable even with partial damage or glare. Use durable materials for either.

Do barcodes or QR codes require special scanners or devices?

 Barcodes can often use simple line scanners; QR codes usually scanned via phones/tablets with cameras, which many already have. 

How do I decide which is best for my inventory size and complexity?

 If you only need simple IDs and basic tracking, barcodes may suffice. For more complex data, linking URLs, richer metadata, or location history, QR codes are more flexible.

What common mistakes happen in printing QR codes or barcodes?

 Printing too small, poor contrast colors, low resolution, using non-durable tags, or choosing labels incompatible with scanners. These lead to scan failures.

What are best practices for label size and readability?

 Use minimum size proportionate to scanner resolution; ensure good contrast (dark on light), avoid distortion; for QR codes keep quiet zone margins.

Does switching from barcode to QR reduce errors or improve tracking?

Many users report fewer scan errors with QR (especially with smartphones), more consistent label reads, and better tracking when visibility/access is imperfect.

How can I use QR/barcode tags to track location changes automatically?

By scanning asset tags and optionally location tags/shelves; then software records the change. Helps when moving items between bins/sites.

Do QR codes pose security or privacy risks?

 Yes—if codes encode URLs or sensitive data, they could be misused. Make sure only non-sensitive info is exposed, or use hashed/encrypted identifiers.

Which is better for auditing & compliance: barcodes or QR codes?

 QR codes often give more auditing info (timestamps, richer data), easier to trace history; barcodes can work but may log less metadata.

How do I choose durable label materials for codes?

 Use weatherproof, scratch-resistant materials, UV-resistant inks; pick adhesives suitable for surfaces; test in expected environment (heat/corrosion etc.).

How can EZO tools help manage QR/barcode tagging effectively?

EZO’s Print Labels and Scanning modules allow generating codes (barcode & QR), associating them with asset IDs, scanning via mobile, tracking condition & location history efficiently.