Barcode Tracking
Barcode Asset Tracking Software
Scan barcodes to identify assets, run audits and update records. Works with your existing barcode labels or print new ones. Combine barcode scanning with QR and GPS tracking in one platform. No separate systems.
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Read how these teams run MapTrack
Co-Founder & GM of Operations
One scan to identify, inspect and manage
- Scan & go
- instant asset lookup
- $1 / $12
- tools / fleet from
- 4.9 G2 · 5.0 Capterra
- also 5.0 on GetApp & Software Advice
Use QR codes alongside barcodes in the same register.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
See the tags list
Scanning the barcode opens the asset record in MapTrack, where staff can check in or out, update status, run audits and complete compliance forms without manual data entry.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
See the record a scan opens
Instead of searching spreadsheets or manually entering serial numbers, field staff scan a barcode to instantly open the asset record and take action.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
See it on a phone
Track who has what, when it was taken and when it is expected back.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
See how teams use it
Run bulk scan workflows for storeroom and site audits. See what is present, flag missing items and identify overdue inspections in minutes.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
See the four steps
Field staff scan the barcode with a dedicated scanner or compatible device to pull up the asset record. Check in/out, update status or complete forms.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
Assign or request in one tap
Match the printed value to an existing asset
Barcode and Data Matrix workflows start with the identifier list. A code that scans successfully must also match a value already present in the MapTrack account.
1. Prepare and prove the list
Check the asset identifiers and desired code type, then review a sample label. Use the actual handheld scanner and target account to verify that the exact printed value opens the intended record.
2. Choose the right scanner path
Scan QR, barcode and Data Matrix labels with the phone camera or a supported USB or Bluetooth handheld scanner. An unknown handheld code cannot be used to create a new tag through that scan.
Setup and limits
- Barcode and Data Matrix printing is list-driven. Confirm the printed values, scanner and account mapping before a bulk label order.
What is barcode asset tracking?
Barcode asset tracking uses barcode labels on physical assets so they can be identified, checked in or out, and managed by scanning with a barcode reader or compatible device. Instead of searching spreadsheets or manually entering serial numbers, field staff scan a barcode to instantly open the asset record and take action. Barcode tracking is especially useful in storeroom and warehouse environments where dedicated scanners already exist, or where assets arrive pre-labelled with manufacturer barcodes. MapTrack supports barcode tracking alongside QR code tracking and GPS tracking in one register, so you can mix identification methods without running separate platforms.
Instant asset lookup
Scanning the barcode opens the asset record
Field staff scan the barcode with a dedicated scanner or compatible device to pull up the asset record. Check in/out, update status or complete forms.
A tool’s record on a phone, with Return and Reassign
On a phone, the tool’s record has Return and Reassign at the bottom of the screen.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
About this screenshot
Captured at a 430 x 932 phone viewport in a demonstration workspace and shown in a phone frame.
Open the record a scan leads to
An asset record on a phone, with its details and Assign and Request one tap away. Scanning the asset’s MapTrack QR tag opens this record; this capture was opened from the asset list instead.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
About this screenshot
Captured at a 430 x 932 phone viewport in a demonstration workspace and shown in a phone frame.
The problem
Your assets have barcodes, but no system behind them
Slow manual lookups
Typing serial numbers and scrolling through spreadsheets to find asset records wastes valuable time on every interaction.
Outdated spreadsheets
Spreadsheets go stale as soon as someone forgets to update them. There is no single source of truth for asset status.
Labour-intensive stocktakes
Manual audits with clipboards take days and still produce counting errors. Missing items slip through the gaps.
Existing labels going unused
Many assets already have barcode labels from purchase, but without a platform to scan them into, those labels add no value.
How it works
Four steps to barcode-based asset management
Apply barcode labels
Use existing barcodes on your assets or print new ones in a format MapTrack supports. Standard barcode formats work with our scanning workflows.
Scan to identify
Field staff scan the barcode with a dedicated scanner or compatible device to pull up the asset record. Check in/out, update status or complete forms.
Manage and inspect
View the asset history, schedule maintenance, complete compliance checklists and raise fault reports. All data attaches to the asset record.
Bulk scan and audit
Run bulk scan workflows for storeroom and site audits. See what is present, flag missing items and identify overdue inspections in minutes.
Trusted by construction, mining and field service teams
Platform capabilities
Everything you get with barcode tracking
Barcode scanning
Scan standard 1D barcodes with a dedicated scanner or compatible device to open asset records instantly.
QR code support
Use QR codes alongside barcodes in the same register. Scan either with the phone camera or a dedicated scanner.
Central register
One register for every asset across every site. Full history, custody chain and audit trail regardless of label type.
Bulk scan audits
Scan assets in sequence for fast stocktakes. Flag missing, unaccounted or overdue items at a glance.
Compliance checks
Scan to open the correct checklist. Pre-starts, calibrations and inspections link to the asset record.
Maintenance
View service history and raise work orders from a scan. Track costs and schedule servicing per asset.
Digital forms
Complete inspections, condition reports and sign-off forms directly from the scanned asset.
Reporting
Scan history, utilisation rates, compliance status and loss reports on one dashboard.
Already have barcodes?
Use your existing barcode labels with MapTrack
Many assets arrive pre-labelled with manufacturer barcodes. Instead of relabelling everything, MapTrack can work with your existing barcode format so you get scanning, audits and compliance from day one.
Compatible formats
MapTrack supports Code 128, Code 39 and other standard 1D barcode formats. Contact us to confirm compatibility with your existing labels before you start.
No relabelling required
If your assets already have barcodes, link them to asset records in MapTrack and start scanning. No need to peel off old labels and apply new ones.
Flexible hardware
Scan barcode, Data Matrix and QR labels with the phone camera or a handheld scanner. Both work with the same platform and the same asset register.
Turn your barcodes into a live asset register
Scan to identify, check in/out, inspect and audit. Works with your existing barcode labels and dedicated scanners. Start your free trial.
- No credit card required
Identification methods compared
Barcodes, QR codes and GPS in one platform
| Feature | Barcodes | QR codes | GPS devices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scan method | Dedicated scanner or camera | Smartphone camera | Automatic (no scan needed) |
| Scan angle | Specific orientation | Any angle | N/A |
| Live location | Last check-out or return | Last check-out or return | Real-time GPS |
| Best for | Storerooms, existing labels | Tools, equipment, field use | Vehicles, plant, high-value items |
| Damage tolerance | Low (line-of-sight needed) | Higher (readable when partly damaged) | N/A |
All three methods share the same asset register, compliance workflows and reporting. Learn about QR code tracking or explore GPS tracking.
Every QR tag, and the asset it is on
The tags list shows every QR tag the workspace has generated, which asset each one is on, and how many are still unassigned.
MapTrack app · Demonstration data · Captured
About this screenshot
Captured at a 1440 x 900 desktop viewport at 2x in a demonstration workspace, right of the sidebar.
Barcode scanning in practice
How teams use barcode tracking every day
Storeroom and tool crib
Scan assets in and out of the storeroom with a dedicated barcode scanner. Track who has what, when it was taken and when it is expected back. Run periodic bulk scans to verify stock and catch missing items.
Learn more →Receiving and goods inward
Scan manufacturer barcodes on new assets as they arrive. Create the asset record, assign a location and add it to the register in seconds. No manual data entry needed for labelled items.
Learn more →Site audits and stocktakes
Walk the yard or workshop scanning barcodes on each asset. Compare scanned items against the expected register. Identify missing, miscounted or unaccounted items in minutes rather than days.
Learn more →Compliance and calibration tracking
Scan a calibrated instrument to view its calibration due date, inspection history and compliance status. Complete the next inspection form from the same screen.
Learn more →Equipment transfers
Scan to check an asset out of one location and record it at another. Transfer logs show the full movement history so you always know where each asset is and who moved it.
Learn more →Maintenance and fault reporting
Scan the barcode to view service history and raise a work order or defect report. Attach photos of damage. The maintenance team receives the request without phone calls or paperwork.
Learn more →Built for your industry
Barcode tracking across every sector
Construction
Barcode scanning for tools, materials and equipment across job sites.
Warehousing
High-speed barcode scanning for storeroom check-out and inventory audits.
Electrical
Track calibrated instruments with scan-based identification and records.
Plumbing
Scan specialist tools and fittings for custody tracking and verification.
Mining
Barcode labels for workshop tools and shutdown equipment on mine sites.
Resources
Learn more about asset identification
Barcode asset tracking FAQ
What is barcode asset tracking?
Barcode asset tracking uses barcode labels affixed to physical assets so they can be quickly identified by scanning with a barcode reader or compatible device. Scanning the barcode opens the asset record in MapTrack, where staff can check in or out, update status, run audits and complete compliance forms without manual data entry. It replaces spreadsheets and paper registers with a single scan workflow.
What barcode formats does MapTrack support?
MapTrack supports common barcode formats including Code 128, Code 39 and other standard 1D barcodes. If you have existing barcode labels on assets, contact us to confirm compatibility before relabelling. 2D barcodes and QR codes are also supported in the same platform, so you can mix identification methods across your register.
Do we need dedicated barcode scanners?
Dedicated barcode scanners are supported and recommended in high-volume or storeroom environments where speed matters. The phone camera scans QR, barcode and Data Matrix labels, and so does a handheld Bluetooth or USB scanner. We can advise on hardware based on your scanning volume and environment.
Can we use both barcodes and QR codes in the same system?
Yes. MapTrack supports mixed tracking: barcode for some assets, QR codes for others, and GPS where devices are installed. All asset types share the same register, compliance workflows and maintenance records. You are not locked into a single identification method, so you can match the label type to each asset and environment.
How does barcode tracking differ from QR code tracking?
Standard barcodes (1D) store a numeric or alphanumeric ID and are typically read by a laser or camera scanner at a specific angle. QR codes (2D) store more data, can be scanned at any angle with a smartphone camera and support direct links to asset records. Barcodes are often preferred in storeroom environments with existing labels and dedicated scanner hardware.
How do we set up barcode tracking for existing assets?
Import your existing asset list from a spreadsheet, then assign barcode values to each asset record by scanning your existing labels or printing new ones. Staff can begin scanning immediately once labels are linked. The MapTrack onboarding team helps with bulk imports and label configuration for a smooth transition.
How does bulk barcode scanning work for audits?
Bulk scan workflows let you scan multiple assets in sequence to verify their location and custody. After scanning, MapTrack highlights assets that are missing, in the wrong location or overdue for inspection. This makes stocktakes and site audits significantly faster than manual checks with clipboards.
Does barcode tracking work with GPS tracking?
Yes. Barcode-labelled assets sit alongside GPS-tracked assets in the same register. Use barcodes for identification and audits on tools and equipment. Add GPS devices to high-value or mobile assets like vehicles and plant for real-time location. All assets share the same compliance, maintenance and reporting workflows.
Which plan includes barcode asset tracking?
Barcode scanning and identification is available on all MapTrack plans. Tools and equipment start at $1/asset/month, while fleet, plant & heavy machinery assets start at $12 per machine per month on Machine Plans, billed annually. Bulk scanning, audit workflows and mixed barcode/QR tracking are included. All plans come with unlimited users.
Does MapTrack read Data Matrix codes?
Yes. Scan QR, barcode and Data Matrix labels with the phone camera or a handheld Bluetooth or USB scanner. We also print durable barcode and Data Matrix labels from your asset list, with a proof before you pay.
Can we scan a batch of labelled assets and log one service?
Yes. Raise one batch work order for a group of enrolled assets, or scan a batch of assets and log the service for all of them at once. Batch logging needs a connection.
Can a barcode scan turn a booking into a check-out?
Yes. Crews book equipment ahead through Requests, and once a booking is approved, a scan at pick-up turns it into a check-out. Requests and check-outs need a connection.
Scan, track and go
Barcode tracking for tools, equipment and assets. One scan to identify, inspect and manage. Start your free trial.
4.9 on G2 · 5.0 on Capterra, GetApp & Software Advice
- No credit card required