Let us start by saying – you’re on the right track.
Implementing RFID across your logistics operations is a critical first step for anyone looking to keep track of their assets through distribution channels. For many companies in the logistics space, it can be a costly and time-consuming endeavour, so it’s important that you are making the most out of your RFID technology.
At Sensize, we call the implementation of RFID tech the “ultimate first step towards a streamlined supply chain”. But why is that?
RFID technology stands for Radio-Frequency Identification. It uses electromagnetic fields to automatically detect, and track tags attached to anything on your supply chain. That could be vehicles, pallets, roll cages, or any type of reusable packaging. These tags contain a unique digital identification meaning they can be tracked without the need to scan a barcode or even see the tag directly at all.
Therefore, logistics managers can completely automate the documentation of shipments moving in and out of warehouses or stores and so, because of this, RFID has become a vital part of many supply chains.
For logistic managers looking to explore the capabilities that asset tracking can offer, it’s the best first step, but it’s not perfect.
It’s a catchy headline, but here at Sensize, we don’t think RFID has many problems. However, if you're managing complex supply chains, you may have noticed some limitations and challenges:
1. Location Gaps:
RFID is great at checkpoint tracking – it knows when an item enters or leaves a specific area. But what happens between those points?
2. Large Facility Challenges:
In massive warehouses, knowing that a pallet has arrived somewhere in the building is helpful, but not specific enough for optimal efficiency.
3. Limited Data Insights:
While RFID provides basic tracking, it doesn't offer the rich, real-time data needed for deep supply chain optimisation.
Of course, Tag Collision and Reader Collision, where data can become confused due to too many tag/reader interactions at once, can also cause problems for your operations.
RFID can also pose a small security risk, as RFID tags can be read by anyone with a compatible reader. If tags have unique serial numbers, these identifiers can be associated to individual consumers creating a potential privacy concern.
But the biggest problem with RFID is, if you want to operate with RFID gates, the amount of investment required in its initial installation can be substantial. With such steep investment costs, it’s vital that your supply chain is set up in a way that allows you to make the most out of the data you’re collecting from your tracking efforts.
RFID is really good at knowing when an item enters or leaves a warehouse, but what happens when a pallet doesn’t arrive at its expected location or if you’re operating in a larger warehouse where knowing that a pallet has arrived is useful but not entirely helpful?
RFID is a great foundation for asset tracking, but if you want to gather the best data to optimise your logistics operations, you need further tracking to work alongside it. That’s where mixed tracking comes in.
By combining RFID with, GPS trackers you get a much more comprehensive view of your supply chain. That means you can better identify bottlenecks and where improvements can be made to mitigate delays and run a smoother overall operation.
Here's what mixed tracking can do for you:
Know where every asset is, not just when it passes checkpoints.
Spot trends and predict potential issues before they become problems.
Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies with pinpoint accuracy.
Drastically reduce lost or misplaced assets.
Make strategic decisions based on comprehensive, real-time data.
Here at Sensize, we use a range of asset-tracking options to give you a live view of your entire operation with our dashboard collecting real-time data that supports your supply chain. That means that losing pallets or roll cages becomes a thing of the past, as you’ll be aware of exactly where every asset on your supply chain is at all times.
Combining technologies is the most optimal way to ensure your logistics operations are tracked fully.
If you’ve taken steps to implement RFID and want to build your asset tracking capabilities further, Sensize’s technology can help you get full oversight of your entire supply chain – even in cases where assets would normally disappear.
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