Mobile Computers & Tablets

Purpose-Built Mobile Computers & Tablets

In today's data-driven world, supply chain efficiency depends heavily on real-time communication and quick access to critical data. Mobile computing solutions and tablets are pivotal tools that enable these capabilities across a wide range of supply chain environments. From streamlining warehouse operations to empowering retail staff on the sales floor, enterprise-grade mobile devices are transforming workflows, reducing errors, and increasing overall productivity.

Connect to learn more

Warehouse employee using a tablet and printer attached to a forklift.

Mobility Solutions for Every Environment

Heartland delivers smart mobile computing solutions for every environment. So, whether you run a retail storefront, trucking operation, or bustling distribution center, you have access the right solution for every task. We offer a wide range of ergonomic handheld computers, rugged wearables, vehicle-mount tablets and more, to ensure you always have the devices you need for operational success.

Rugged devices – Built for harsh environments, rugged mobile computers are engineered to withstand challenging conditions such as extreme temperatures, dust, moisture and drops. Rugged devices are ideal for environments like warehouses, cold storage facilities, manufacturing floors, and field operations.

Handheld computers – Combining the functionality of a scanner, computer, and communication device, handheld computers are versatile and ergonomic, making them ideal for warehouse workers, retail associates or manufacturing technicians. Mobile handhelds allow users to quickly capture and store data without being tied to a fixed workstation.

Wearable computers – PWearable computers provide hands-free scanning and data access. Commonly worn on the wrist or arm, and often paired with headsets, these devices are ideal for high-volume environments where speed, safety, and precision are critical.

Vehicle-mount computers – Vehicle-mounted computers (or vehicle mounted units—VMUs) are designed for installation in forklifts, pallet jacks, and delivery trucks. These devices provide real-time data access and communication within arm’s reach while operators remain in motion. VMUs reduce the need for drivers and operators to leave the vehicle, improving productivity and safety.

Rugged tablets – Rugged tablets offer maximum mobility with a large screen size, making them perfect for managerial tasks, fieldwork, and customer-facing applications. Many rugged tablets feature modular accessories, including payment readers, keyboard attachments, and docking stations—transforming them into flexible workstations.

The Benefits of Purpose-Built Mobility

Selecting the right mobile device for the right task across warehousing, manufacturing, logistics, and retail brings significant operational advantages. Purpose-built devices tailored to specific environments ensure optimal performance, durability, efficiency and increase productivity.

Here's a quick snapshot of the benefits of each of the major categories of mobile computing:

Rugged Mobile Devices

Durability – High IP ratings, rugged features, and military-grade drop resistance
Reliability – Consistent performance in extreme environments
Longevity – Lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and better return on investment (ROI) due to reduced device failure and replacement

A warehouse employee using a handheld scanner while using a forklift.

Handheld Computers

Improved inventory management – Real-time data collection for more accurate data and easier, faster cycle counting
Increased visibility – Access to real-time-data enables better planning and faster decision making, and reduce risk of out-of-stock items
Better accuracy – Best-in-class barcode scanning minimizes errors in picking, inventory management and more

A person uses a mobile device to scan a barcode.

Wearable Computers

Ergonomics – Lightweight designs minimize fatigue during long shifts
Hands-free operation – Workers can perform faster and eyes-up with increased efficiency
Improved accuracy – when paired with voice-directed technology, wearables reduce errors and improve picking times

A person scans a barcode using a device worn on their finger.

Rugged Tablets

Durability – Minimize risk of downtime and reduce need for repairs
Access to real-time data – Data capture features enable instant and accurate inventory and location information
Enable workflow automation – Streamline workflows by integrating processes into a single device

Industry-Specific Applications

Across the supply chain, enterprise tablets & computers have become critical components to workflow efficiency. From retail storefronts, to delivery trucks and distribution centers, today’s mobile computers and rugged tablets have revolutionized efficiency, delivering automation and reliability businesses can count on.

Warehousing

In warehouses and distribution centers of all sizes, smart warehouse technologies like mobile computers streamline receiving, picking, put-away, cycle counting, and shipping. Real-time data capture minimizes errors and speeds up inventory turns. Wearable devices and vehicle-mounted computers allow workers to navigate hands-free while still in motion, improving safety and work speed.

Manufacturing

In factories and manufacturing facilities, mobile computing solutions enhance productivity by providing real-time access to production schedules, quality control checklists, and machine diagnostics. Operators and maintenance teams use rugged mobile computers and rugged tablets to report issues, receive alerts, and track work orders directly from the production floor. This minimizes downtime and ensures a more responsive and agile manufacturing process.

Transportation & Logistics

Drivers rely on mobile devices for route navigation, and real-time communication with dispatch. Tablets with GPS and mobile data ensure visibility and traceability, and mobile computing is indispensable for tracking shipments, managing delivery routes, and maintaining clear communication between dispatchers and drivers. Rugged tablets and mobile computers enable electronic proof of delivery, GPS navigation, and real-time updates, improving delivery accuracy and customer satisfaction.

Retail

Enterprise mobile devices empower retail associates to locate items, check prices, and process transactions on the spot. This enhances customer experience and supports omnichannel fulfillment strategies. Mobile devices empower associates to assist customers more effectively with real-time product information, mobile point-of-sale capabilities, and inventory checks. Tablets also support tasks such as shelf audits, pricing updates, and stock replenishment.

Healthcare

Handheld mobile devices and tablets streamline healthcare workflows by enhancing mobility, efficiency, and patient care. These devices enable clinicians to access real-time patient records, medication data, and diagnostic tools at the point of care, reducing delays and minimizing errors. Their rugged, disinfectant-ready designs ensures reliability in demanding environments, where drops, spills, and frequent sanitization are common.

Smart Technologies from Industry-Leading Manufacturers

At Heartland, we pride ourselves in delivering the best enterprise tablets and computers for every client’s unique needs. That means building strategic partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers so that our customers have access to today’s cutting-edge mobile technology solutions from the best possible sources. Our solutions experts are trained and certified to provide guidance and support you need to make the most of your investment.

Proven Partnerships

Heartland is pleased to work with expert hardware providers who are delivering cutting-edge enterprise mobility solutions and industrial automation solutions:

From retail to manufacturing, Honeywell barcode scanners, printers, mobile computers and RFID solutions are purpose-built for the demands of your business. As a pioneer in the barcode scanning market, Honeywell’s experience, combined with new innovations have helped retailers, distribution centers, transportation and logistics and healthcare organizations achieve significant improvements in efficiency, speed and accuracy of their operations.

Zebra anticipates operational challenges so you can scan anything, anywhere, no matter what. Powered by our proprietary DataCapture DNA, everything arrives prepared for duty—ready to deploy, easy to manage, and made to scale. Zebra’s mobile computers, multi-tasking tablets and steadfast printers integrate easily, pair instantly and talk freely to one another to make your workers unstoppable.

TSC Printronix Auto ID is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative thermal printing solutions. TSC Auto ID offers budget-friendly desktop printers to high-performance industrial solutions including rugged mobile printers. Printronix Auto ID offers premium, enterprise-level applications with a selection of high-end features including RFID encoding and integrated barcode verification.

Datalogic is a global technology leader in the automatic data capture and factory automation markets, specialized in the designing and production of bar code readers, mobile computers, sensors for detection, measurement and safety, RFID, vision and laser marking systems. Its cutting-edge solutions help to increase the efficiency and quality of processes in the Retail, Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistics and Healthcare industries.

Panasonic is a leading technology provider of electric batteries, as well as innovative smart mobility, sustainable energy, and integrated supply chain solutions. Our unique combination of software, hardware and advanced analytics expertise provide value and better outcomes for stakeholders and customers in every part of the mobility universe.

The Heartland Difference

Every business is unique, and not all technologies are created equal. That’s why working with an experienced solutions provider is critical to selecting and implementing rugged mobility and mobile computing solutions that are right for you. The Heartland team draws on decades of supply chain experience that gives your businesses a competitive edge when you need it most. With Heartland, you have access to:

Unmatched expertise across brands and devices
Support through every phase of the solution lifecycle, with AlwaysOn suite of managed services
A wide offering of voice-based technologies from today’s industry-leading voice OEMs

A single source for all of your mobile computing, printing and scanning needs. Heartland offers a single point of contact, from device selection, to deployment, ongoing support and more. Our experienced solutions consultants are ready to learn about and understand your operational pain points to recommend best-in-class solutions that make the most sense for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rugged mobile computer?

A rugged computer is a computer designed to operate reliably in harsh usage conditions. They must withstand strong vibrations, extreme temperatures, and wet or dusty conditions. They are purpose-built for these types of environments.

What makes a mobile device rugged?

Rugged mobile devices often feature reinforced casings, sunlight-readable displays, glove-compatible touchscreens, and specialized batteries for extreme temperatures. These features ensure uninterrupted performance across shifts and in various environments.

What are handheld devices?

A handheld device is any computing, electronic, or mechanical device that is small and portable enough to be held and used in one or both hands.

What is a rugged tablet?

A rugged tablet is a tablet designed to operate reliably in harsh usage conditions. They must withstand strong vibrations, extreme temperatures, and wet or dusty conditions. They are purpose-built for these types of environments.

What is a wearable device?

A wearable mobile device is designed to be worn on the body, allowing users to access and interact with information while keeping their hands free. These devices are built to be durable, secure, and easily integrated into enterprise systems, like warehouse management systems (WMS), enterprise resource planning (ERP), or manufacturing execution systems (MES).

What kind of support is available for Heartland mobile computers and tablets?

Heartland’s AlwaysOn suite of Mobile Device Management services can offload administrative burdens and helpdesk tickets related to your mobile technology hardware. From configuration to an integrated helpdesk, AlwaysOn manages the workload so your team can focus on what they do best.

Rugged Mobile Computers and Tablets for the Supply Chain