RFID technology offers versatile features that can be employed to extensively improve the safety, security and efficiency of the distribution and transportation of goods, as well as the logistics of the supply chain. This versatile technology enables companies to effectively manage the supply chain with unprecedented levels of automation that lead to a better degree of control for all.
The Benefits of RFID in Logistic Management
RFID in logistics management has had a huge impact, continuing to evolve as a more reliable and efficient tracking system that improves the process of monitoring inventory accuracy and optimising warehouse space.
RFID readers can be placed at various checkpoints throughout the supply chain, from the production line to the shipping dock – all designed to keep track of items as they move through the system. This helps reduce errors and streamlines the process of getting products from the manufacturer to the consumer.
RFID tags can be attached to or implanted in products, pallets, cases or items being shipped. The tag sends a signal to an RFID reader, which can then determine the location of the product and track it throughout the supply chain. RFID also provides real-time information on stock levels and order status so that goods can be expedited as needed. In short, RFID plays a pivotal role in ensuring that products are accurately tracked and delivered on time.
How is RFID used in warehouses?
RFID is used in warehouses to improve the overall inventory management. For example, RFID can be used to track the location of individual items in a warehouse, helping to reduce lost or misplaced items. Implementing an RFID warehouse tracking system can also automate tasks such as stocktaking and order fulfilment. Finally, RFID can help improve warehouse efficiency by preventing overcrowding of shelves and helping to ensure that goods are placed in the correct location.
How RFID could be used in transportation?
RFID has the potential to revolutionise transportation by improving goods flow and providing a more efficient and secure method of tracking inventory across all transportation types – air, road, sea and rail.
RFID can provide timely and accurate information on shipments as they move through the supply chain. This helps to reduce inventory levels and improve the efficiency of transportation processes. RFID also helps to ensure that the right goods are delivered to the right destination. This information can be accessed by customs agents, truck drivers, port workers and even manufacturers, ensuring that the flow of goods is more efficient and authentic to decrease the chance of goods getting lost, stolen or counterfeited.
The Impact on the Supply Chain
RFID offers solutions in the transportation and distribution industry that improve efficiency, increase driver safety and can even lead to reduced emissions across vehicles. By installing a warehouse RFID system that has a better read rate than a basic barcode system, the logistics of the supply chain lead to a vastly better quality of production, all the way to delivery.
Applying a state-of-the-art RFID asset tracking solution that includes specialised tags also allows users to keep track of all goods and provide relevant information about the logistical side of the manufacturing process. This includes better vehicle identification and inventory management that can save costs and reduce delays.
Benefits of RFID within the Supply Chain
With RFID, logistics managers and businesses can better track and manage products and assets throughout the supply chain in multiple ways, each coming with an array of benefits.
Provides real time updates on the quantity and location of products in warehouses.
Improves the productivity of staff with a more advanced system.
Better product handling efficiency of a business.
Reduces overall costs in the long run, with lower shrinkage and theft with RFID asset tracking.
Saves time with a quicker scanning system resulting in quicker deliveries of goods.
Increases the visibility of goods and the data captured on products through specialised RFID tags.
Helps to optimise the manufacturing process with better automation.
Improves the delivery speed of goods.
The transparency that RFID offers in logistics management solutions is unrivalled and helps to alleviate the strains on the ever-changing global supply chain.
Our Recommended RFID Devices
As with any new technological advancement, there are, however, challenges that RFID faces when it comes to its impact on the supply chain. The biggest challenge that RFID faces is a lack of understanding and knowledge about the technology. Most are unaware of the benefits it can bring to a business and the support it offers the supply chain, as information is scarce.
Another factor that impacts the implementation of an effective RFID system is the initial cost. While RFID can show a substantial ROI, the specialist products required to run an RFID system can be costly. However, the cost of implementing RFID has greatly reduced in recent years and is a good investment when the operational savings are taken into account.
Finally, an RFID system can be hampered by metals and liquid-filled containers, which interfere with the radio signals. At TEC-RFID, we offer an array of tags and labels, designed specifically to combat this issue and reduce any detrimental impact it may have on the supply chain.
STOCKTAKING MADE SIMPLER WITH THE TEC-RFID ASSET MANAGEMENT APP
Stocktaking is made simple with the TEC-RFID Asset Management app, increasing not only the speed of your stocktake, but the accuracy too.
