My job constantly involves moving, tracking, and checking inventory, so I understand the importance of scanning speed.
But how much faster can a handheld barcode scanner speed up routine operations compared to a stationary system, and is it worth the money given my daily workload?

Given that your work involves constant movement and inventory checks, a handheld barcode scanner can significantly speed up routine operations compared to stationary systems. Because you can scan items directly on the move without returning them to a fixed station, it reduces handling time, errors, and bottlenecks. For daily workloads like yours, investing in a quality  usually worth it, as the efficiency gains and time saved often outweigh the initial cost.