The Cellar: A Barcoded Inventory System

[iamn8]

Anytime i hear the word Cellar used to describe tobacco storage, I can't help but picture something like this. A room which exists solely for the storage and consumption of Tobacco & Alcohol and is decorated for the purpose.

In my new home I won't have a basement, but I'd like to have a room with a very similar feel to it. I plan on using my iPhone as a scanner and general database inventory software and barcode labels to scan items in/out. Something about barcodes appeals to the image of a Cigar & Pipe Tobacco Storage Facility, or perhaps a part of me just misses owning my own retail business and needs to do a periodic inventory to fill the void At the moment I don't have enough of an inventory to require barcodes, but if the next eight months are anything like the last I should put this into play now.

Anyone currently using a barcode scanning system? Which one? Also do use a phone or a dedicated scanner?

 

[jkrug]

I'm not sure if I have the technical ability (think computer idiot) to set up and run a system like that but I can see how it would be awesome to have. Automatic updates to the cellar database as tobacco is removed or added to the cellar available for viewing at the click of a button. That would be very cool indeed.
I can see it now...Nate opens up data base...Hmmm Penzance stock has fallen below 15 pounds....time to restock!!
Good luck and keep us posted.
I'd love to have a parlour/smoking lounge like the one in that pic!! ::

 

[deathmetal]

That's deliciously James Bond. Bonus points if the room has a blast door and/or is built into a real cave.

 

[captainprophesy]

OK... sans all the high tech software you guys are talking about... thats a really nice place. Im really a simple man and don't need much, but damn that would so nice :lol:

 

[cosmicfolklore]

We used to use a barcode system in the shop, but it is expensive and labor intensive. You would have to enter all of the data for each company and then each blend. Plus, there's the cost of barcodes, printing them, and the software to read the codes and the database. We dropped it in the business. As all too often, timesaving technology ends up being the opposite. I cannot fathom having to enter each blend in the database and taking the time to print out a code for each tin. There are apps and web-based software out there for free or close to free that already has each blend, with info on the blend, the blender, and links to reviews. And, with a rating system built in that allows me to rate each blend, and review it with ease. I just scroll to the blends that I am entering into the cellar, click on a number, or a weight of each jar, and write no more than four numbers in a sharpie on the tin, if it does not already have one printed on it. Then, when I pop one, I just click on the inventory listing, and it tracks the tin down to finished. Then it gives me data on how much I smoke, how old it is, and allows me to access what's in stock so that I can keep a balance of the blends that I like. Easy peasy.
Pipe Tool app for iPhones. And, we had a forum member develop a web-based one that allows people to compete in volume, but that scares me. I already have an intrinsic motivated TAD budgeted into my household budget. I don't need competition to drive me into bankruptcy, haha!
The key to good inventory tracking is ease and flexibility. Why reinvent the wheel?
But, by all means... do what you want. I'd love to see someone else take it to the next level.
And, I am in the process of having my wall to wall tobacco room built. It's been a dream for years now that I've saved up for. Complete with a ventilation system, Art Deco and Nouveau furniture and accessories. Its a small room, but perfect for my own personal escape to smoking pleasure.

 

[iamn8]

Michael, there was a time when this was so, but no longer. Personal inventory software has made this far easier. I already have the printer by Dymo. I simply associate a barcode with a review using Tobacco reviews for associated details and bingo. So far as in/out goes that's the easy part. For a barcode scanner my iPhone does it brilliantly. Of course, such a setup couldn't be used for licensing reasons.

 

[peckinpahhombre]

I use a bar code inventory system for my wine collection. You use your phone to read the UPC code or it can also recognize the label. http://www.cellartracker.com
To my knowledge there is nothing similar for tobacco, but maybe you can create one.

 

[cosmicfolklore]

Then by all means do it. I'm rather happy with what I have though. It takes me all of a few seconds to input a five pound cache. And, it works great for jars.

But, if it works for you, then happy sailing.
When I get my pipe room finished, you should come by, since your just down the road. The invitation is open. Maybe you can show me how to use my reflector telescope. I've only ever been able to find the moon in it, ha ha!

 

[iamn8]

Peck, all I'm talking about is associating a given barcode with a date, a quantity, and a URL linking to the specific tobacco at tobaccoreviews.com. Using any basic home inventory app for either iOS/Mac or PC, they all are simply scan and associate type apps.
Cosmic, I'd love to bro!! Anytime! Also there are star parties held twice every month with the Birmingham Astronomical Society. Assuming good weather there is usually good turn out.

http://www.bas-astro.com/pdf/2015_meeting_dates.pdf

 

[deathmetal]

Sounds intelligent as a general rule. In fact, it might make sense to do it for everything in a house, so that if you ever need to file an insurance claim you're OK...

 

[iamn8]

Sortly - Moving, Organizing & Inventory by My Things App Inc.

https://appsto.re/us/pTuJF.i

 

[prndl]

Great start for a mancave.
Is it just me or is that ottoman/table not screaming for a pole?
::