RFID Sensors Enable Shipping Container Logistics

IBM integrates RFID sensors and software to enable the tracking of returnable shipping containers used to transport goods globally. The software creates supply chain visibility and supports inventory reduction goals of customers. ...

... "Clients using IBM's Returnable Container Management capability affix sensors such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to each of their reusable containers. Through the use of both standing and mobile devices that read the tags, all relevant data is captured, including place and date of manufacture, serial number, and other necessary details. IBM's software, based on industry standards, allows clients and their trading partners to use a Web browser to determine where each container is at any given point. If a container reaches the wrong location, the system will alert management.

For example, an automobile manufacturer using the software can track containers filled with parts from suppliers to their manufacturing plants and ultimately back to container storage facilities. In doing so, they can expect to improve container turnaround time by as much as 20 percent; reduce container loss by between 5 and 15 percent, reduce container inventory by 10 percent; realize a 30 percent savings in container carrying costs; and reduce the need for one time packaging and expedited shipping costs by 80 percent. " ...

Via IBM: Software Uses Sensors to Speed Movement of Container Shipments

Forklift RFID Picklist Efficiency

RFID Reduces Shipment Errors for ABB

ABB Oy is achieving benefits from its RFID application in the management of outbound goods processing, where movements are automatically reflected in the inventory management system supporting the elimination of loading errors of consignment material. ...

... "ABB’s system uses UPM Raflatac’s RFID tags that were implemented by Vilant Systems. All transport units belonging to a consignment are marked with adhesive RFID tags at parcel level. The trailer loading docks are equipped with RFID readers, which scan all loaded parcels. Vilant's RFID software has been integrated with ABB's own SAP system.

The registration number of the vehicle arriving for loading is recorded in the SAP-system and the progress of the delivery is automatically controlled. The system knows what the consignment should include and the gate issues an error warning if there is an attempt to load the wrong goods onto a vehicle. Furthermore, the gate will not close until all goods belonging to a consignment have been loaded onto a vehicle. All this makes it virtually impossible to make incorrect deliveries. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: ABB RFID technology application

Smart RFID-Integrated Supply Chain Software

Savi Technology releases SmartChain 6.0 software for managing visibility in the supply chain and just in time operations through RFID integration. ...

... "SmartChain 6.0 is designed to ease the integration of Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technologies, such as bar codes, IUID, RFID, GPS and sensors, into existing business processes. With Savi SmartChain 6.0, it is easier than ever to manage assets, shipments and inventory moving within facilities and throughout the global supply chain. " ...

Via Savi Technology: Adaptive Applications Simplify Integration of RFID into the Enterprise

RFID III Contract Awarded to Unisys

Unisys is selected by the U.S. Army Program Executive Office-Enterprise Information Systems to participate in an indefinite quantity contract for the Radio Frequency Identification III program, RFID III.

... "Under the new RFID III contact, Unisys will be able to provide the DoD and other federal agencies with RFID technology as well as services. RFID III is the successor to the Army’s RFID II contract, awarded in January 2003, and represents a move within the U.S. Department of Defense towards a competitive approach to RFID technology procurements, based on international standards. Currently, RFID tags are attached to approximately 125,000 shipments of military supplies each week. As shipments pass through field locations, fixed and handheld readers send and receive data to and from the tags. This data is made available to the military for greater visibility into the location and status of shipments. " ...

Via Unisys: U.S. Department of Defense RFID III Contract

Walgreen RFID Implementation

Walgreen partners with Blue Vector to implement RFID system that is designed to deliver a paperless shipment loading process. The system automates the process for shipment load confirmation and triggers processing in the warehouse management system. ...

... "Walgreens, the nation's fastest growing drug retailer, has deployed one of the most technically advanced and well-integrated large-scale RFID systems in the industry. The system assists in the goal of 100% shipping accuracy from distribution center to hundreds of stores by scanning in real-time every product loaded into every truck and immediately alerting workers to potential shipping mistakes. " ...

Via Blue Vector: Walgreens Deploys RFID in Next Generation Distribution Centers