Use Case

Custom order WIP tracking to eliminate vehicle modification blind spots


In the manufacturing industry, lacking visibility into custom vehicle modifications frustrates dealerships and buyers. This pervasive challenge can be solved using Zebra RFID Tags, RFID Portals, and Tablets, providing accurate vehicle tracking from customization to final transport.

High level image of an automotive warehouse floor modification center.

Blind spots in custom vehicle modifications

Within the automotive manufacturing industry, building custom vehicles requires intricate coordination. A persistent challenge arises when customers and dealerships lack visibility into the status of custom vehicle orders requiring special modifications. The root cause is often disconnected tracking mechanisms that fail to relay real time progress updates. This disconnect leaves stakeholders guessing about production stages and expected completion times.

These blind spots lead to severe negative consequences, including strained partnerships and widespread customer dissatisfaction. Without a clear view into the customization process, manufacturers face operational bottlenecks that delay shipments. The resulting inefficiencies increase administrative burdens and cause lost revenue as customer service teams spend excessive time chasing down order statuses manually.

The custom order WIP tracking solution

Implementing a unified tracking network composed of Zebra RFID Tags, RFID Portals, and rugged Tablets creates a seamless data environment. These specialized components capture and share location data automatically across the busy production floor. This coordinated tracking system directly addresses the core visibility challenge to deliver improved customer satisfaction and increased transparency in the entire order fulfillment process from start to finish.

Potential benefits

Deploying this tailored visibility solution shifts the focus from managing blind spots to realizing tangible improvements. Manufacturers utilizing these specialized tools will see immediate quantifiable outcomes that transform the dealership and end customer experience.

Improved customer satisfaction

by keeping buyers informed and engaged 

Increased transparency

in the order fulfillment process by bringing complete clarity to internal teams and external partners

More accurate delivery estimates 

by providing precise timelines from the shop floor to final transport

 

 

How the solution works

An RFID reader automatically scans a truck as it enters a custom assembly station. This initiates work-in-progress (WIP) tracking, associating the vehicle with a specific custom order and ensuring real-time visibility from the very first step.

Automate asset identification across the shop floor

Attaching an RFID Tag to each vehicle initiates the tracking workflow seamlessly. This component serves as a digital fingerprint for the asset as it moves through the facility. It is highly effective for maintaining a batch schedule for vehicles pending customization, capturing data automatically without manual scanning. The rugged design withstands harsh production environments while reliably transmitting location data.

A connected worker consults a Zebra tablet displaying real-time order specifications to guide the installation of a custom truck accessory. This digital workflow provides part validation and logs the completion of the task, maintaining an accurate work-in-progress (WIP) record.

Capture location data during critical transitions

As vehicles advance through various customization zones, strategically placed RFID Portals read the attached tags automatically. These portals serve as vital checkpoints that monitor progress without slowing down operations. They provide the necessary infrastructure for vehicle modification tracking by relaying exact locations to the central system. Capturing data seamlessly at transition points keeps the production schedule accurate and transparent.

As a vehicle enters a work zone, its rugged RFID tag is read, creating a digital fingerprint for the asset. This automated data capture is the first step in maintaining an accurate batch schedule and tracking vehicles pending special modifications.

Log updates and verify custom requirements

Floor workers manage active schedules directly using Zebra tablets. Tablets allow staff to view specific customization instructions and input real time milestone updates for loading and transport. When the modifications are complete, updated information can be logged into the system. This current data can then be used to give end customers and dealerships visibility into order status, completion details, and next steps. Providing a mobile interface at the point of work keeps production data current, while helping verify that all special modifications meet exact specifications before the final sign off.

Driving business value through clear visibility

Investing in this comprehensive tracking framework delivers strong financial returns by reducing administrative overhead and accelerating order processing. Unlocking clear visibility transforms previously strained dealership relationships into a powerful competitive advantage for long-term business growth.

Let's discuss how Zebra's solution can work for you

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.