RFID real-time tracking: Small label with big impact - practical example (part 1/2).

Even if the processes in the warehouse are apparently mature, a great deal of efficiency is lost if the overall intralogistics package is not coherent. The consequence: high costs and large differences in stock levels. This presents many companies with ever new challenges. How can these challenges be mastered effectively and in the best possible way?

One solution could be the combination of our SuPCIS-L8 warehouse management system and the connection of a "Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)" system. Our warehouse management software offers functions that make it easy to integrate RFID. This combination is ideal for tracking goods along the entire supply chain in real time, better monitoring and controlling internal logistics processes and making them more efficient. Sounds promising in theory, but what does it all look like in practice?

We have implemented the RFID solution in two different variants. In the first practical section, we present individual part identification using the example of a retailer in the textile industry.

With individual part identification, the entire stock of goods is equipped with transponders. Alternatively, the goods are marked as non-RFID-capable items in the item number master of the warehouse management software. Ideally, the manufacturer labels the goods. The transponders and the implemented RFID subsystem make it possible to recognize the carton contents in the incoming goods area as they pass through the tunnel using RFID readers. The goods are automatically identified. Usually without opening the cartons.

In the event that the correct number of labels is not read or an incorrect label or incorrect part is detected, the carton in question is ejected for re-inspection. A second check is then carried out at this clearing station by reading at the manual workstation. It is often sufficient to shake the carton slightly to separate parts that are close together. In this way, at best all parts can be recognized during the re-reading. If there is still an error after this, an individual part check is carried out after opening the carton. During this process, missing or defective labels can be reprinted via the warehouse management system.

Some manufacturers or suppliers do not attach the RFID labels to the goods themselves. In this case, relabeling is carried out as a billable service that is documented in the warehouse management system. The reverse principle is also used for picking control. To check whether all individual parts have actually been placed in the container during the picking process, picked containers pass through tunnel reading stations. There are also corresponding control stations (clearing points) here. This not only serves as verification for the employees, but is also intended to ensure smooth processing of incoming goods in the store.

It was important for the retailer to use RFID technology along the entire process chain. He achieved this with our warehouse management software and RFID. RFID real-time tracking offers the retailer a wide range of benefits that have a positive impact on the efficiency, accuracy and transparency of the processes.

‍Hereare the main advantages:

1. Increase visibility and transparency: Real-time tracking allows companies to monitor the location and status of goods live. This transparency improves the tracking of products from the point of origin to the end customer.
2. Improve inventory management: RFID records stock automatically and accurately. This simplifies stocktaking and prevents stock shortages or excess stock.
3. Increase efficiency: RFID automates data collection and reduces manual effort. This lowers labour costs and minimizes errors.
4. Speed up processes: Fast, non-contact data capture enables goods to be processed quickly.

The second practical part is about container identification with RFID at a pharmaceutical company. To the blog post: Practical example (part 2/2).

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Do you also want to stop opening boxes and always know where the goods are? Feel free to contact us.