Top 3 Warehouse Technologies to Combat Labor Shortages

Warehouses are under more pressure than ever. Sky-high demand, rising costs, and increasing customer expectations all collide with one major constraint: a shrinking labor pool. Whether you’re short on workers or struggling with high turnover, technology can help close the gap.

Here are three Zebra Technologies solutions, offered by Strategic Systems, that help warehouses do more with fewer hands—boosting efficiency, accuracy, and worker satisfaction.

1. Wearable and Hands-Free Scanning: Speed Without Fatigue

Traditional handheld scanning slows workers down and increases strain over time. Zebra’s wearable barcode scanners and ring scanners, such as the RS5100, let pickers scan items instantly without putting down their boxes or tools.

• Faster pick/pack workflows
• Fewer dropped or damaged devices
• Lightweight, ergonomic design reduces fatigue
• Hands-free use enables multitasking in high-velocity environments
  
  

Pair these with Zebra WT6300 wearable mobile computers to give workers a full, heads-up data experience while keeping both hands free.

2. Rugged Mobile Computers with Voice-Directed Capabilities

Zebra’s mobile computers, like the MC9400, MC3400/3450, and TC5x Series, are optimized for warehouse environments and ready to support modern voice-directed picking systems—reducing training time and error rates.

• Android OS with intuitive user interfaces
• Push-to-talk and voice app support
• Fast scanning, even in low-light or high-rack areas
• Advanced connectivity (Wi-Fi 6, 5G-ready models) for real-time data access
  
  

For new or seasonal workers, voice-guided workflows and clear interfaces make onboarding faster and more effective.

3. Mobile Printing: Label on the Spot

Zebra’s ZQ600 Series mobile printers eliminate the need to walk back and forth to print stations. Workers can print inventory labels, shipping tags, or order receipts on demand—right at the point of action.

• Reduces travel time across large warehouse floors
• Improves labeling accuracy and speed
• Long battery life supports full-shift use
• Works seamlessly with Zebra handhelds and tablets
  
  

When every minute counts, mobile printing helps your staff move more efficiently—without sacrificing accuracy.

Intelligent Device Management Tools

Zebra’s Mobility DNA and Device Tracker software help your management team locate misplaced devices, push updates remotely, and monitor fleet performance. These tools eliminate wasted time, reduce lost equipment, and extend the life of your investment.

At Strategic Systems, we help warehouses modernize without disrupting the flow. We offer:

• Hardware selection and pilot programs
• Workflow consultation and deployment support
• Integration with WMS systems
• Long-term support and Zebra OneCare service options
  
  

Our team ensures your technology not only works—but works for your team.

Future-Proof Your Workforce

Labor shortages aren’t going away. But with Zebra’s advanced warehouse technology and Strategic Systems’s expert deployment support, your operation doesn’t have to slow down. Automate the repetitive, empower your workers, and scale with confidence.

Contact Strategic Systems to schedule a warehouse tech assessment.