Smart Label Tracking Tackles Some of 2023’s Top Supply Chain Challenges

 

If you are feeling squeezed by labor shortages and the pressure to adapt to a rapidly changing transportation and logistics environment, it’s time to consider implementing smart label tracking via a Bluetooth real-time locationing system (RTLS) solution. Making the switch to Bluetooth tracking is easier than you may expect, and most 3PLs, warehouses, and cargo forwarding businesses already have everything they need for a smooth transition.

Discover how Bluetooth RTLS tracking can improve your operations over barcode or RFID scanning devices, and what you need to get started.

 

Why Switch to a Bluetooth RTLS Solution With Smart Label Tracking?

It looks like supply chain shortages and logistics challenges may be easing up for 2023, but the trend toward automation and more advanced tracking systems for better visibility is in full swing. According to a survey conducted by SAP, 74% of business leaders questioned said they were planning to adopt new technology to overcome supply chain challenges.

Transitioning from barcodes or RFID to Bluetooth RTLS technology with smart label tracking is a logical move. It’s a cost-effective solution that will streamline supply chain operations and improve visibility. A Bluetooth RTLS provides accurate, real-time data and the ability to instantly pinpoint location, even at item-level.

 

Automate Logistics Operations

For cargo forwarders, a real-time locating system allows you to access shipment location information every step of the way. As long as the RTLS tags (in this case, Bluetooth stickers) are within range of a gateway (up to 100 m), the gateway is able to transmit location information via wireless signals. Then you can precisely locate your shipments, packages, and even items in real time.

When you use Bluetooth tracking in the warehouse, automated inventory audits automatically take place every ten seconds. No manual scanning is required, which helps supply chain leaders optimize labor resources while decreasing the potential for human error.

This facilitates a dramatically more responsive approach to inventory management. Bluetooth labels transmit active signals to the gateway automatically upon being received into the warehouse. Similar to active RFID tags, they are always transmitting data about their location and status. No more scanning, no more chokepoints, and no more bottlenecks.

 

Gain Near Perfect Track-and-Trace and Inventory Data

Human error is one of the costlier expenses in logistics. When employees need to scan labels manually or when items need to pass through an RFID chokepoint to transmit data, there is a risk of missed reads and lost products or stock. Additionally, when you don’t have a real-time understanding of your inventory, you run the risk of products sitting on shelves undetected. This can lead to delayed order fulfillment, expired products, and waste.

Compared to RFID tags or barcode stickers, Bluetooth RTLS systems with smart label tracking are far more accurate. A gateway within 100 m of Bluetooth tracking labels will detect them, and you can separate zones into defined areas. You’ll receive exception and excursion notification as they happen, and manual inventory audits will be a thing of the past.

 

Download our Bluetooth Label Spec Sheet to Learn More

 

Bluetooth RTLS Solutions are More Cost Effective Than RFID Solutions

Passive RFID tags that are only activated by radio frequencies within a very short range are more affordable than active RFID solutions, but they don’t provide any of the automation that enhances tracking visibility or inventory data accuracy. According to a cost analysis for RFID options posted on the International Association of IT Asset Managers website, installing an active RFID system requires careful consideration of your visibility and automation needs, and it can get very expensive very quickly.

Depending on configuration, active RFID tags can cost as much as $20 each, while Bluetooth labels with similar functionality cost much less. The barrier to entry is lower, and compared to RFID, Bluetooth gateways are inexpensive and easy to install.

 

You Don’t Need to Ditch Your Existing Tracking System

Making a complete switch from barcode or RFID solutions to a Bluetooth RTLS solution might seem intimidating. However, most Bluetooth labels can coexist with other track-and-trace devices or inventory management systems already in place. Additionally, Bluetooth labels from Reelables work in conjunction with existing serialization implementations.

And finally, you don’t need to change your existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) or warehouse management system (WMS) solution when you transition to Bluetooth. APIs allow seamless integration so you can keep using the systems and features you and your staff are accustomed to.

 

Getting Started With Smart Label Tracking is Simple!

The Reelables Bluetooth Tracking Demo Kit comes with everything you need to give our solution a try.

• Labels are preprinted, activated, and provisioned.
• Account and dashboard are already set up.
• Cellular gateways come with a data plan in place—simply turn on and start tracking.

 

Get Ready for the Next Generation of Supply Chain Visibility and Data Management!

Staying competitive in 2023 will require supply chain and logistics businesses to adopt new technologies and strategies to save on skyrocketing costs, make the most of available labor, and automate for better accuracy wherever possible. Implementing a Bluetooth RTLS solution with smart label tracking provides a way to manage some of the year’s top issues more efficiently.

Reelables provides full support and makes it easy to see what Bluetooth track-and-trace technology can do for your business.

 

Excited to see what Bluetooth RTLS with smart label tracking can do for your business? Contact us today to discuss how Reelables can customize a solution for your application!