The Learn Barcode feature in the Finale Inventory barcode scanning app helps you quickly connect physical barcodes with the products you manage in Finale.
This is especially useful when manufacturers have already printed a barcode on the product or packaging. Instead of creating new custom labels, you can simply teach Finale to recognize the existing barcode.
Once learned, the barcode can be scanned anywhere in Finale — receiving, picking, packing, and stock adjustments — saving time and reducing errors.
https://youtu.be/-DWg94pyCfY
Why Use Learn Barcode?
Eliminate the need for custom labels if products already have manufacturer barcodes.
Reduce typing errors by scanning barcodes instead of entering SKUs or product names.
Speed up receiving, picking, and packing workflows.
Ensure your catalog stays linked to real-world barcodes for long-term efficiency.
How to Learn a Barcode
On the scanner, open the Learn Barcode function.
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Scan the product’s existing barcode using the scanner.
Finale will prompt you to select the matching product from your catalog.
Confirm your selection.
Sync the scanner to save the barcode association to Finale.
What Happens Next
After syncing, the barcode will be listed under the product’s Product Lookups (aliases) in Finale.
From this point forward, scanning that barcode will always bring up the correct product.
You can add multiple barcodes to a single product if needed (for example, if your supplier uses multiple formats).
Best Practices
Use Learn Barcode the first time you handle a new product with a manufacturer barcode.
Sync frequently to ensure your changes are applied across Finale.
Standardize barcode learning across your team so everyone scans consistently.
The more barcodes you teach Finale, the faster and more accurate your operations will be.
Need Help?
For assistance with barcode setup or scanner workflows, contact us at service@finaleinventory.com or check out our other help articles and training videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plan level is required for access to the mobile barcode scanner?
The mobile barcode scanner is available on Gold Plans and above
Is the physical scanner included with my Finale Inventory subscription?
We do not provide or sell any hardware. If you are upgrading your plan for access to Finale's Mobile Barcode Scanning features, you must purchase a scanner on your own, and can use one of our preferred vendors if you wish.
What are the hardware requirements for the mobile barcode scanner?
ANDROID-OS Based Minimum hardware requirements:
Operating system version: Android OS 8.1 or greater
Hardware specifications:
I am using the free trial of Finale Inventory, how do I integrate my mobile scanner with my trial account?
Please contact Descartes Customer Support to enable access.
How do I change the Orientation of the barcode scanner screen?
The mobile barcode scanner software has a toggle screen hot spot on the top of every screen in the app. Click the area under the title bar to swap your orientation.
How do I type a quantity on the scanner?
Press the UP arrow, on the bottom-of your screen in the app, BEFORE you scan the items you intend to receive or count. That will open up a quantity box for you to type into.
How do I use my own scanner with the Finale Inventory scanner app?
Ensure that your scanner is running on Android-OS 8.1 and that you are on the appropriate plan level to access Finale's barcoding features. The barcoding app can be downloaded directly from the Google Play Store.
Where do I purchase the scanner?
We have two preferred vendors that are recommended to purchase your scanner with however you may ultimately purchase a scanner from anywhere you wish. Our preferred vendors are Barcode-Arena and AML. Please note that Finale's Mobile Barcode Scanner app is only compatible on Android device.
How do I know what version my scanner is running?
From the main screen of the Finale IMS Barcode Scanner app, click More until you reach option #18 About. Selecting this option will tell you exactly which version of the app you're running on that device.
What is the difference between a USB/Bluetooth scanner and a Mobile Scanning device?
USB/Bluetooth scanners can plug directly into a phone or computer for the purpose of scanning a barcode, whereas a Mobile Scanning Device acts as on handheld tool to run Finale's Mobile Barcode Scanner app and scan barcode information simultaneously.
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