Maintaining IT Hardware for Manufacturing & Distribution
November 10, 2025
In high-volume operations like manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, downtime is costly. These environments depend on Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) to coordinate everything from receiving and put-away to order picking, labeling, and shipping. However, the WMS is only as effective as the hardware it runs on, including mobile computers, barcode scanners, printers, wearable devices, iPads, and tablets from trusted manufacturers such as Zebra, Honeywell, and Apple.
When this hardware fails, entire workflows can stall. That’s why a reliable partner like Mercom, offering
expert repair, responsive support, and high-quality refurbished equipment, is essential to keeping operations running efficiently.
The Challenge: Maintaining Hardware in Demanding Environments
Manufacturing floors, distribution centers and warehouses place significant demands on IT equipment. Devices are in near-constant use, exposed to harsh conditions, and expected to perform without fail. Scanning issues, damaged screens, printing problems, and general wear are all common problems. Even a single malfunctioning scanner or printer can delay production or disrupt shipping operations.
Compounding the issue, many facilities are facing increased prices from IT manufacturers, making new device purchases more expensive. Instead, the focus must shift to maximizing the lifespan of existing equipment through dependable repair and refurbishment.
Why Hardware Reliability Is Critical to WMS Performance
Every second matters when tracking inventory, managing workflows, or fulfilling time-sensitive orders. A failed handheld device can result in inaccurate picking, missed shipments, or incomplete inventory data. In manufacturing environments, a malfunctioning printer, iPad or mobile computer can halt production and affect the entire line.
Reliable IT hardware ensures that your WMS operates at full capacity, supporting productivity, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
How Mercom Supports Manufacturing and Warehousing Operations
Mercom provides specialized support for WMS-connected hardware, including rugged mobile devices, printers, barcode scanners, wearable technology, and tablets. Our services are tailored to help reduce downtime, extend device longevity, and minimize overall hardware costs.
We deliver depot-level repairs, manage full hardware lifecycles, and offer overnight device replacements to keep operations moving. In addition, we supply high-quality refurbished hardware, backed by strong warranties—an increasingly valuable option as manufacturers raise prices.
Our expertise ensures seamless performance and ongoing reliability across your WMS environment.
A Structured Approach to Hardware Maintenance
Mercom follows a clear, results-driven approach. It begins with a full asset audit to identify high-risk devices and common points of failure. Our technicians then perform repairs using quality components and parts, ensuring restored performance and compliance with manufacturer standards. Each device is tracked through its lifecycle, and clients receive regular reporting to help guide future planning and replacement strategies.
This process helps reduce unplanned downtime, improve system visibility, and lower long-term costs.
Let’s Strengthen Your IT Hardware Strategy
If outdated devices, rising repair costs, or frequent hardware failures are impacting your operation, Mercom can help. We provide dependable repair, asset management, and refurbished equipment supply to support manufacturing and warehousing environments across North America.
To reduce downtime and gain better control over your WMS-connected hardware,
contact Mercom today.
