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Barcode labeling is a visual system, requiring a line of sight with the barcode. This can become overly complicated and can slow down processes with less than accurate access to information. In several industries, such as warehouses and distribution, food service, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals, there are strict regulation and tracking requirements.

With multiple options to choose from for RFID readers and software, RFID can be a smooth transition process for employees. Create the fully scaled operational ecosystem that will keep you ahead of the curve on in your industry.

Worker using RFID scanner

Who wouldn’t want to participate in ecommerce with sales forecasted to reach about $6.54 trillion in the coming years?

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RFID for Manufacturing and Warehouse/Distribution

Pallet of product in a warehouse

In 1901, The US Department of Commerce created the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to provide technology and standards to benefit US industries, such as product labeling requirements, units of measurement, safety standards, and more. When these regulations are not properly maintained, it can result in hefty fines and chargebacks (the latter alone could be as high as $8,000) of rejected shipments.

Omnichannel commerce increases product orders by ease-of-access to create an order by having multiple options that benefits and meets consumer needs. Through online, mobile device, in-person, or over telephone, there are more ways for consumers to order a product than ever before, resulting in more sales. It is imperative that the consumer has a seamless customer experience for the profit and reputation of a company.

Omnichannel commerce increases product orders by ease-of-access to create an order by having multiple options that benefits and meets consumer needs. Through online, mobile device, in-person, or over telephone, there are more ways for consumers to order a product than ever before, resulting in more sales. It is imperative that the consumer has a seamless customer experience for the profit and reputation of a company.

Traceability

RFID tracking gives traceability (precise and accurate tracking) to products in warehouses and as items move through a workflow or a supply chain. This provides a greater ability for tracking what the status of the product is as it is being manufactured, such as what station it is at.

It provides real-time visibility to the product without having to actively scan a visible barcode at each stage. RFID tracking helps to maximize theft prevention by “keeping an eye” on a tagged item’s location.

Front and back image of an RFID label

Data Storage

Man using an RFID scanner

RFID tags assist in the manufacturing process by housing all necessary data during and after the creation of the product, such as the date and time the RFID was created and applied to the product, the manufacturing date, the line the product was created on, if the product is a WIP (work-in-progress), and where in the process the product is.

Keeping track of this information is essential to ensuring that the factory automation process is efficiently working as it should. With all this information conveniently located within the RFID tag, quality assurance reviews are faster and easier to complete. All this information is ultimately helping to reduce order fulfillment times and further automate the manufacturing process.

Enhancing Efficiency

This advanced technology aids in minimizing errors and non-compliance by decreasing the amount of hands-on need during distribution and warehousing. In addition, RFID technology helps to solve labor shortage issues during times of increased volume.

Locating a specific product with RFID allows for minimal picking, packing, and put-away times, helping aid in efficiency, and can ultimately make processes (such as cross-docking, stocking, etc.) more accurate and less of a hassle. Forklifts can also be equipped with RFID technology, making larger, heavier products a breeze to locate, identify, and handle.

RFID machine
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RFID for Food Service Industry

Woman with RFID scanner

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires use of a Unique Device Identification System (UDI) on barcode labels for foods and beverages in the United States from production to consumer. These labels must be readable by both man and machine (scanners).

Traceability

If the labels are not done to UDI standards, a company is liable for more than just fines and chargebacks. Tracking this information using RFID technology not only is UDI compliant, but it also assists in recalls due to food-borne illness and other circumstances, creating a more efficient process for companies.

Front and back image of an RFID label

Order Fulfillment and Loss Prevention

Grocery Store shelves

Keeping grocery store shelves stocked can be quite a task these days, but with the aid of RFID technology item-level inventory management is an easier process for employees. From picking and stocking items, ordering needed items from suppliers, and helping consumers find exactly what they are looking for.

With groceries being obtained in-store, online, and over mobile devices, it is important to managed inventory. RFID also helps with loss prevention by ensuring that the correct items are ordered and only as much as is needed.

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RFID for Medical Devices

Zebra RFID reader

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also requires the use of a Unique Device Identification System (UDI) on barcode labels in medical fields. These labels must be readable by both man and machine (scanners).

If the labels are not done to UDI standards, a company is liable for more than just fines and chargebacks. Private label distributors are susceptible to the possibility of a legal exposure, impacting patient safety.

Easier Tracking

Tracking this information using RFID technology not only is a UDI compliance issue, but also helps aid in:

• Accountability
• Medical device tracking
• Patient information
• Professionals keeping track of e-health recordings
• Documentation on a specific drug (e-pedigree)

Front and back image of an RFID label

Ultimately, this technology can help healthcare workers save time by scanning versus using manual entry methods, which can lead to a decrease in risk of human error and saves time. This can help healthcare today to keep up with current events.

RFID for Pharmaceuticals

RFID in pharmaceuticals

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also requires use of a Unique Device Identification System (UDI) on barcode labels in medical fields. These labels must be readable by both: man, and machine (scanners). If the labels are not done to UDI Rule standards, a company is liable for more than just fines and chargebacks. Private label distributors are susceptible to the possibility of a legal exposure, impacting patient safety and the tracking of accountability.

Easily Meet Global Serialization Requirements

How are pharmaceuticals different from medical devices regarding RFID technology? Pharmaceuticals must meet additional global serialization regulations in addition to UDI Rule standards.

The United States, European Union, China, and Brazil have specific serialization requirements, with more countries joining to include this requirement. Examples of these requirements include DSCSA, FMD, and 21 CFT Part 11.

Pharmacy shelves

Ultimately, this technology can help healthcare workers save time by scanning versus using manual entry methods, which can lead to a decrease in risk of human error and saves time. This can help healthcare today to keep up with current events.

Real-Time Asset Tracking

Man using an RFID scanner

RFID technology provides real-time asset tracking for medical facilities, leading to more efficient medication tracking, pharmacy management, preventing medical errors, and allowing for restricted access control for asset safety. In addition, RFID aids in vaccine distribution, which has seen an increase in demand.

Imprint Enterprises is the Zebra Technologies RFID Specialist

RFID Fixed reader

Thinking about making the switch? Imprint Enterprises can help make the discussion and transition to Zebra’s RFID tech painless and seamless, giving your company a cutting technological edge on all available markets.

Reduce the amount of time it takes to track inventory, while increasing the accuracy of locating items. Automation using RFID technology can assist with labor shortages and make inventory management more hands-off.

It is imperative for a company’s bottom line to maintain compliance with industry regulations, while minimizing the potential for chargebacks and fines. And with multiple options available between hardware and software, almost any company can benefit from implementing RFID technology.

Imprint Enterprises has decades of experience in RFID solutions – from printers, readers, and tags/labels.

We will support you in making the most informed decision for your enterprise and can outfit your company with RFID technology from Zebra. Contact us to begin building your comprehensive RFID solution for your enterprise.

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