Consignment Software and Hardware Compatibility
Barcodes
Most barcode scanners and ink printers (bubblejet, inkjet, LaserJet, dot matrix) are compatible with Best Consignment Software.
Printables
Best Consignment Software prints consignment and buy-outright agreements, checks, reports, sales invoices (receipts), address labels, price labels and hang tags (with or without barcodes) - on 8.5 x 11 stock.
Receipts
Alternatively, receipts can be printed using thermal receipt printers and roll paper.
Price Labels and Tags
With the Diamond or Virtual editions of BCSS, labels and tags can be printed using thermal label printers and rolls of labels and tags.
Not all receipt and label printers are compatible. Run a printer self test to assure functionality then in BCSS set the printer in Program Setup > Printers and attempt to print from within the program.
Hardware Bundles
Consignment Software Packages include a scanner, cash drawer and receipt printer. Volume discounts apply. For example the Diamond Edition ($595), the drawer ($119), the receipt printer ($284) and the scanner ($99) total $1,097. The Diamond Package includes all four items for $999 - no shipping or sales tax (except TX) added.
Refurbished
Used/refurbished equipment 'can work' but is not recommended. For help with all hardware purchased elsewhere, please contact the supplier, or for paid support call us at 888-427-5779 or send an email to consign@usa.com
Consignment Software and POS-X Equipment
POS-X manufactures POS equipment in the USA (Bellingham, WA). Their barcode scanners, cash drawers and receipt printers are compatible with Best Consignment Software. (They do not provide label printers.)
Shipping
POS-X equipment is delivered in 2-5 business days (depending upon location and availability) with 2-to-5-year warranties, 30-day DOA replacement, 2-day replacement thereafter (with optional paid 1-day replacement). There is no sales tax (except TX).
Consignment Software and Barcode Scanners
Today's barcode scanners are 1D (one dimensional) and 2D (two dimensional). The former reads standard barcodes while 2D reads 1D and QR codes. Either can be used with Best Consignment Software. With Diamond or Virtual, driver licenses can be scanned to populate a new-client record.
To Windows, barcode scanners are mostly 'universal' meaning that like keyboards, they are input devices but rather than interpreting keystrokes, Windows reads information encoded in the vertical lines or QR codes. Most conventional (1D) and 2D scanners are compatible with Best Consignment Software.
Another similarity with other input mechanisms is that scanners are typically 'plug n play'. Windows will recognize the scanner when it's plugged in and ready itself for input from the device.
Open Notepad and scan a barcode. If the scanner is working, the barcode number should appear.
Consignment Software and Cash Drawers
Cash Drawer (Till)
A cash drawer is a secure compartment used to store currency, coins, checks, and other valuable documents in retail environments. As a fundamental component of a point-of-sale (POS) system:
- It serves as a secure storage solution with separate compartments for bills, coins, and other payment types
- On its own, it performs no calculation or record-keeping functions
- It typically activates (opens) when triggered by a connected cash register or POS system
- It can be manually opened with a key when necessary
Cash Register
A cash register combines a cash drawer with additional functionality for processing sales:
- Calculates transaction totals, applies taxes, and determines change
- Records sales details and payment methods
- Prints receipts on standard 3-inch receipt paper
- Includes a user interface (keypad or touchscreen) and display screens
- Often serves as the central component of a complete POS system
Cash Register Receipts
Standard receipts include:
- Date and time of transaction
- Store name and address
- Invoice/transaction number
- Itemized purchases with quantities
- Sales tax calculations
- Applied discounts
- Payment method
- Custom messages (e.g., "Thank you for shopping with us")
POS System Integration
Modern cash registers can connect to various peripheral devices:
- Barcode scanners
- Scales
- Check stands
- Credit/debit card terminals
Best Consignment Software Solutions
The Best Consignment Software (BCSS) offers enhanced functionality:
- Combined with a receipt printer and cash drawer, it can replace a traditional cash register
- Performs all standard register functions including receipt printing
- The Diamond or Virtual editions feature Cash-Drawer-Balance tracking:
- Monitors each salesperson's balance in real time
- Determines expected cash amounts at any given time
- Supports multiple employees using the same POS station through individual login credentials
Hardware Recommendations
Apex Pro Cash Drawer
- Price: $133 (standard) or $183 (with direct PC connection)
- Connects to receipt printer and opens automatically when receipts print
- Optional setting to open only for cash/check transactions
- Includes key for manual locking
- Direct PC connection available if not using a receipt printer
Consignment Software and Thermal Receipt Printers
A receipt printer prints sales receipts, not price labels and tags.
A receipt printer prints on 3-inch-wide roll paper with the details of the sale: date, items, quantity, price, subtotal, tax, total amount.
The ION Thermal 2 Receipt Printer (5 x 6 x 6, $284) is a 'silent' jam-free thermal printer which prints 1 or more copies of 1-ply RECEIPTS (not price labels). Font size and density can be changed. Messages and logos can be printed.
The following receipt printers work with BCSS to varying degrees. They are not supported (for free) or recommended: EASYSET A9 MiniPrinter (some odd characters possible), Epson M-188A, TM6000II, TM-T88, TM-T88IV and TM-U220, Samsung SRP350, SNBC BTP-2002NP, Star SP212, TSP600/700, TSP 613 and DP8340, and all refurbished printers.
Is a Receipt Printer Necessary?
Consignment store customers understand that items are used and mostly sold 'as is'. They typically accept (if not expect) a 'no-return policy' so in many cases, it is not necessary to print a receipt (for return purposes). Moreover, many customers are satisfied with the credit-card transaction receipt. Of course hand-written receipts would also be acceptable for purchases with few items.
Every edition of BCSS has a built-in receipt that can be printed in the Excel Invoice format with any laser-style printer on a full sheet of paper, which may be sufficient for an occasional receipt.
For these reasons a thermal receipt printer ($284) and rolls of receipt paper ($$) may be unnecessary.
What Is a Receipt Printer?
A receipt printer is a device used in retail and hospitality environments to print customer receipts. It is an essential component of the point-of-sale (POS) system and can also print other types of documents, such as order tickets in restaurants or end-of-day reports for businesses. Here are some key details about receipt printers:
Types of Receipt Printers
Thermal Printers
Function: Use heat to print on specially coated thermal paper.
Advantages: Fast, quiet, and do not require ink or toner.
Usage: Commonly used in most modern POS systems.
Impact (Dot Matrix) Printers
Function: Use a print head that strikes an ink ribbon to produce text and images on paper.
Advantages: Can print on multi-part forms (e.g., carbon copies).
Usage: Often used in environments where receipts need to be more durable, such as in kitchens for order tickets.
Inkjet Printers
Function: Use ink cartridges to spray ink onto the paper.
Advantages: Can print high-quality graphics and text.
Usage: Less common in POS environments but used where color printing is needed.
Key Features
Connectivity: Can be connected to the POS system via USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth, or wireless connections.
Paper Size: Commonly uses rolls of paper, typically 80mm wide for most retail applications.
Speed: The printing speed is important for efficiency, especially in high-volume environments.
Durability: Designed to withstand frequent use and often feature robust construction for reliability.
Functions of a Receipt Printer
Printing Receipts: Provides customers with a record of their purchase, including details like items bought, prices, taxes, and total amount.
Order Tickets: In restaurants, prints orders for the kitchen or bar staff.
Reports: Prints daily reports, sales summaries, or other business documents.
Advantages
Customer Service: Enhances the customer experience by providing a clear and professional receipt.
Record Keeping: Helps businesses keep accurate records of transactions.
Efficiency: Speeds up the checkout process and reduces errors.
Thermal Label Printers
Direct thermal printers use a thermal printhead that applies heat to chemically-treated paper, creating the print on labels. A black line (adhesive) or gap (non-adhesive) across the back forces the printer to print before moving forward, so there is less waste.
BCSS prints 2" to 4"-wide horizontal thermal labels (adhesive labels and non-adhesive hang tags) - from 1" to 4" high using the TSC TDP-244/246/247/DA210 or 2" horizontal labels with the TSC TDP-225. Bar codes may be printed on labels (or not).
There are 3 options with sheet labels: Adhesive 2 5/8 x 1 (with bar code) and 1 3/4 x 1/2 (too small for bar codes); Non-adhesive 4 x 1 'hang tag' (with bar codes).
There are 16 varieties and sizes of thermal labels, all with optional bar codes, ranging from a 2.25 x .5 jewelry label to a 2-part tear-off hang tag to 4 x 4 adhesive label.
Used/refurbished printers and Zebra printers are compatible but they are neither recommended or supported, however, (paid) support for any hardware is available: 888-427-5779 or email.
BCSS System Requirements
Best Consignment Shop Software is a Windows program. Apple says Windows programs can run on a MAC with Windows and their Basecamp software installed.
Windows
The following are the MINIMUM requirements for Windows alone:
- Processor = 2 GHz or faster
- RAM = 4 GB
- Disc Space = 16 GB 32 bit; 20 GB 64 bit
- Video = DirectX 9 capable device with WDDM 1.0 or higher
- Clean installation suggested with no bloatware.
For BCSS purposes, RAM should be at least 4GB (8-16GB for larger stores) and the computer processor should have a clock speed of 3.0 GHz or more.
Touchscreen Monitors
