Background
For more than 35 years, ToolHound has delivered a comprehensive portfolio of tool and equipment solutions for companies of all sizes across a variety of industries, including construction, power generation, chemical processing, mining and job site equipment maintenance and rental.
The Alberta, Canada-based ToolHound helps companies to maximize equipment utilization, minimize tool loss and hoarding, increase employee accountability and improve productivity to enable significant cost savings through their tool inventory software. The software tracks maintenance information, service records and rental tracking in and out for both external as well as internal job costing purposes.
To provide their customers with a complete tool management system, ToolHound relies on partners like Metalcraft to supply high quality, durable barcode labels. The Mason City, IA-based company has been providing identification solutions to companies since 1950 and it has a reputation for high-performing, durable products.
Opportunity/Challenge
Metalcraft and ToolHound have a long-standing relationship spanning more than two decades. ToolHound President, Dean Perry, recalls their initial referral to Metalcraft came through another one of their existing customers. They needed barcode labels to go on all different types and sizes of tools and equipment, from wrenches to drills. The labels needed to be large enough for barcode, yet small enough to not be obtrusive.
The barcode tags also need to be able to withstand some pretty rugged environments. "Tags are exposed to dirty, sometimes caustic conditions including tar sands in the oil and gas industry," said Perry.
Solution
Ultimately, Perry and his team decided on a 1 1/4" x 3/4" label. They also decided on several different types of Metalcraft labels - allowing them the flexibility to match the identification product to the customer's application and environment to which it will be exposed.
The polymer products, Valumark Barcode Labels and Premium Polyester Barcode Labels are great for more mild environments. Both products are flexible and pliable - ideal for conforming to curved and uneven surfaces.
For more demanding environments, ToolHound uses Metalcraft Foil Barcode Labels. These best-selling labels are photographically reproduced for maximum clarity and detail and then sealed within the anodic layer of the aluminum.
Result
Perry reports great success with the Metalcraft products. "We've provided millions of barcode tags to our customers over the years," he said. "I appreciated Metalcraft's responsiveness and quick turnaround."
For more information about ToolHound or how to get started with your tool tracking application, please contact ToolHound at 1-800-387-8665 or [email protected]. You can also visit www.toolhound.com.
To learn more about our Valumark Barcode Labels and our Premium Polyester Barcode Labels, contact us today at [email protected].