0:00 / 0:00
Unreturned assets create operational bottlenecks
Returnable transport items like racks and containers are critical for manufacturing logistics. However, suppliers and other locations often fail to return these essential assets in a timely manner. Manual tracking methods lack the proactive visibility needed to locate missing items. When facilities lose track of their inventory, production workflows slow down and team members waste valuable time searching for misplaced containers.
These delays lead directly to high costs and severe operational bottlenecks. Without accurate location data, manufacturers are forced to purchase unnecessary replacement items just to keep production lines moving smoothly. Absorbing these constant replacement expenses strains the supply chain budget and creates completely avoidable financial burdens for the overall business.
The returnable asset tracking solution
Replacing manual tracking with an automated tracking network provides complete control over valuable assets. This approach utilizes connected hardware and software to actively monitor inventory. By capturing accurate location data and dwell times across the supply chain, delays can be immediately identified and corrective action taken before shortages occur.
Potential benefits
Because of Zebra products and advanced automated tracking capabilities, manufacturers gain complete control over their inventory. This improved visibility protects overall hardware investments while keeping complex supply chain operations running smoothly and efficiently.
Reduced loss of returnable assets
through constant location monitoring
Lower replacement costs
by maximizing the utilization of existing inventory
Improved availability
of returnable transport items to prevent shortages
How the solution works
Tag and capture location data
The process begins by attaching durable Zebra RFID Tags to every single returnable transport item in the inventory. As these tagged assets move throughout the OEM and supplier locations, a baseline for tracking is established. This automated data collection foundation eliminates the need for outdated manual scanning procedures completely.
Automate data collection instantly
Zebra RFID Readers automatically capture the exact location and dwell time of tagged assets. Placed at strategic checkpoints, these advanced readers continuously monitor inventory movements without requiring human intervention. This seamless integration provides the accurate visibility needed to track items as they transition between suppliers and the facility.
Monitor dwell times and receive alerts
Frontline workers stay informed by accessing real time tracking data through intelligent Zebra Mobile Computers. The system proactively monitors asset movements and automatically sends alerts directly to these mobile devices whenever an item exceeds its expected duration at a specific location, allowing quick responses that prevent shortages.
Protecting investments with better asset visibility
Transforming asset management strategy eliminates costly operational bottlenecks. Implementing automated tracking maintains complete control over essential transport items, protects the logistics budget, and keeps the manufacturing supply chain moving with total confidence.
Note:
Use case figures, savings estimates and images are illustrative only and may be derived from customer data, projections, or controlled testing. They do not represent guaranteed results, and actual outcomes will vary by application; customers should consult a Zebra sales representative to evaluate their specific environment.
