UPS is expanding its use of RFID package sensing technology across its U.S. network. With this step the company aims to increase package visibility, reduce misroutes, and eliminate nearly 20 million manual scans daily. Senior executives emphasised that the initiative will deliver a major transformation in the carrier's operational efficiency.
Under the programme, RFID sensors will be installed at all U.S. hubs and RFID label printers distributed to customers. UPS will be able to automatically read RFID tags on packages at every stage between hubs. This will minimise human intervention in the shipping process and redirect operators to more critical tasks. According to executives the target is to make nearly all packages handled by the carrier RFID-trackable.
RFID is increasingly becoming a standard in the transport and logistics sector. UPS's biggest rival FedEx has also announced a similar expansion plan and is developing its RFID infrastructure. Experts noted that removing manual scans will both reduce labour costs and improve package-location accuracy. UPS said the investment will improve last-mile visibility and estimated delivery-time accuracy offered to customers.
Key Takeaways:
1. UPS is expanding RFID package-sensing technology across its U.S. network.
2. The investment aims to eliminate nearly 20 million manual scans daily.
3. RFID sensors will be installed at U.S. hubs; label printers will be distributed to customers.
4. The carrier plans to make nearly all of its packages RFID-trackable.
5. Rival FedEx has launched a similar expansion; RFID is becoming an industry standard.
