FAQ

Answers to the questions we get most.

Three sections: how the system works, how to get started, and how pricing and data integration shake out. If something isn’t covered, the contact line at the bottom is the right next step.

The system

What it is, what it scans, how it scales.

  • Barrel Scout is an RFID and barcode tracking system designed specifically for the spirits industry. It combines fully-integrated cloud software, mobile apps, RFID scanning hardware, and purpose-built barrel tags to give you real-time visibility into every barrel in your operation, from the day it’s filled to the day it ships.

  • Barrel Scout works with both barcodes and RFID. Our barrel tags include both technologies, so you can start with barcode scanning using any device camera and upgrade to RFID when you’re ready. RFID enables bulk scanning (hundreds of tags in seconds), long-range reading (up to 20 feet), and barrel locate mode, all without needing line of sight.

  • No. You can start immediately using the mobile app on your existing iOS or Android device to scan barcodes with the camera. For RFID scanning, we provide handheld readers. Fixed readers for forklift mounting are available as an optional add-on for fully automated tracking.

  • Barrel Scout tags are battery-free and designed to last the life of the barrel: 10+ years in warehouse conditions. They are engineered specifically for the temperature, humidity, and handling conditions of barrel warehouses.

  • Yes. Barrel Scout supports multiple buildings and warehouses from a single account. You can track barrel movements between locations, including inter-warehouse transfers that automatically create linked shipment and delivery records.

  • Barrel Scout scales from 10 barrels to over 500,000. The same software works for small craft distilleries and large-scale warehouse operations.

Getting started

Trial, implementation, and support.

  • Yes. We run a 30-day trial that includes a configured software instance, a handheld RFID reader, 50 barrel tags, and onboarding support sessions. There’s no upfront software cost — hardware ships under a refundable deposit you can return at no charge if you decide not to continue. Trial setup is more involved than a demo, so the conversation starts with a scheduled call.

  • Most operations are up and running within days. Our cloud-hosted software requires no on-site installation. We configure your warehouse layout, import your existing data, and train your team. You can start scanning barrels immediately.

  • Every new deployment includes onboarding sessions with our team. After onboarding, we provide ongoing support via email and phone. We also offer remote monitoring for fixed RFID readers and can provide on-site support as needed.

Pricing & data

How it’s priced, how it integrates, how it’s secured.

  • Pricing is per barrel per year. For distilleries, it’s based on the total number of barrels actively tracked in your account. For non-distilling producers (NDPs), it’s a graduated rate based on the number of barrels dumped in a given year. See the pricing page for the full tables.

  • Yes. Barrel Scout works as a standalone system or alongside your existing warehouse, ERP, or inventory software. You can export data to Excel and CSV at any time, and we provide a RESTful API for direct system integration.

  • Yes. Barrel Scout is cloud-hosted with industry-standard security practices. Each customer’s data is isolated, and all access requires authentication. API access uses token-based authentication, and we maintain a full audit trail of all system activity.

Still have questions

Talk to a person, not a help center.

The people building and running Barrel Scout will answer directly.

Contact us