RFID Case Study: Optimizing efficiency and visibility in a global supply chain
In today's globalised economy, efficient and transparent asset tracking across international supply chains is critical. Coriel, a specialist System Integrator focused on implementing RFID solutions in challenging environments, has partnered with Tosca, a leading provider of reusable packaging and Supply Chain solutions.
Challenge
Following their acquisition of Contraload, Tosca realised they had a diverse range of identification technologies deployed across their fleet of returnable assets, including different barcode symbologies and many different types of RFID tag. As a result, the returnable specialist needed a data capture system that allowed them to track all their assets reliably and accurately throughout the global supply chain that would incorporate the various the AutoID technologies they had deployed. In addition, all data captured needed to be reliably interfaced with Tosca’s existing asset-management platform (Asset IQ), which would allow them to gain a detailed view of individual asset lifecycles, intended to increase asset rotation with fewer shortages and overstocks.
Solution
Coriel and Mojix implemented a comprehensive solution for Tosca by developing and deploying a mix of handheld and long-range barcode scanner and RFID readers at critical points across the supply chain, connected via the Mojix ytem platform.
The data captured via the mobile and fixed-position readers is reliably transmitted back to the Tosca Asset IQ system via the Mojix ytem platform, ensuring that all information is up-to-date and accurately reflected across the system. This comprehensive approach not only streamlines asset tracking but also significantly improves data accuracy and operational transparency across Tosca’s global supply chain.
Coriel selected, for the handheld part of the deployment, the Nordic ID HH85 due to its rugged design, high-performance RFID capabilities and reliable cellular connectivity. This device proved ideal for the demanding environments of Tosca’s operations and stood out during comparative trials with other devices.
Coriel also provided comprehensive training to Tosca's staff, ensuring proficiency with the new tools and understanding of the processes involved in RFID tracking. This training was crucial for the adoption and smooth operation of the system.
Additionally, Coriel continues to provide ongoing support and system optimization, adjusting based on feedback and evolving needs.
Result
Coriel's RFID solution has allowed Tosca to gain true asset visibility of their fleet and substantially improved their asset tracking across Europe, with successful implementations in the UK, Germany, Italy and Austria.
Raf Fonteyn, Tosca’s Technology Director summed the project up: “The technology has helped the company better understand its own efficiencies. We thought we’re somewhere between six and seven cycles a year, but we actually implemented the full-scale traceability and we saw that the actual turnaround was more like 12 to 13.” Since the system was taken live, he reports, Tosca has been able to measure each service center’s performance, along with overall supply chain performance and specific asset longevity.
This modernization of their infrastructure, away from a mix of barcode and RFID technologies, has significant benefits:
- Improved logistics efficiency: Seamless tracking optimizes workflows and reduces disruptions.
- Reduced losses: Misplacement, theft and damage are minimized.
- Real-Time visibility: Over 99% accuracy in real-time visibility of every container.
Building on this success, the project continues to deploy across additional locations in Europe. This ongoing expansion ensures Tosca benefits from Coriel's RFID solution on a wider scale.
Conclusion
The hybrid barcode/RFID solution, developed by Coriel in collaboration with Mojix for Tosca, has set a new standard in asset tracking within the reusable packaging industry. Leveraging their expertise in AutoID technology and understanding of complex environments, Coriel has delivered a scalable and effective solution that meets the demanding needs of global supply chain management. Additionally, Cisper played a significant role by sourcing the HH85 handhelds, which are integral to the project’s success.
Used Cisper products:
