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The Future of Inventory Tracking: What the Military Already Knows About RFID

When the U.S. Air Force deployed RFID at the 52nd. Logistics Readiness Squadron[1], the results were extraordinary. They saved over 5,200 labor hours annually and reduced discrepancy research time by 150 hours. The system streamlined issuing gear, improved accuracy, and enabled rapid deployments — all while delivering measurable operational gains in readiness and efficiency.

If RFID can perform at this level under military pressure, imagine what it can do for your business when implemented by AB&R (American Barcode & RFID) experts.

The Military’s High-Stakes Inventory Challenge

For the armed forces, inventory isn’t just about keeping shelves organized — it’s about having mission-critical gear ready at a moment’s notice. This means:

  • Tracking thousands of high-value items across multiple locations.
  • Ensuring accuracy during large-scale troop movements.
  • Passing rigorous audits with no room for error.

RFID technology is proving to be the game-changer that meets these demands.

How RFID Delivers Military-Grade Results

1. Labor Savings & Audit Efficiency

  • Automated tracking reduced manual inventory counts by 5,200 hours annually.
  • Discrepancy research times dropped by 150 hours.

2. Expedited Gear Issuance

  • RFID enables instant issuance, saving 5–10 minutes per person during deployments — adding up to hours saved daily.

3. Enhanced Readiness & Mobility

  • Accurate, real-time inventory data supports faster troop movements and mobile readiness.

4. Scalability Across Military Branches

  • RFID supports gear tracking for weapons, tools, vehicles, and communication equipment across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines.

5. Accelerated Global Audits

  • The Marine Corps cut inventory check times from months to just four hours with RFID.

6. Improved Accuracy & Supply Chain Integrity

  • Real-time visibility into the location and status of critical assets reduces errors, prevents losses, and enhances accountability.

Why This Matters to Your Business

While your operations may not involve deploying thousands of troops, the same RFID advantages apply in commercial settings:

  • Manufacturing – Track work-in-progress and tools to keep production moving.
  • Healthcare – Ensure lifesaving equipment is ready when needed.
  • Logistics – Gain visibility across warehouses, cross-docking, and fleet operations.
  • Data Centers – Protect and monitor critical IT assets.
  • Utilities – Maintain accurate records of field equipment, tools, and materials to improve service reliability and response times.

In every case, RFID delivers faster processes, greater accuracy, and better scalability — the same qualities that keep military operations running at peak readiness.

Now Is the Time to Act

RFID has been tested and proven in some of the most demanding environments in the world. Costs are lower, technology is more accessible, and integration is faster than ever. Whether you want to streamline fulfillment, improve asset control, or scale operations, RFID offers a direct path to measurable gains.

AB&R can help you bring military-grade efficiency to your business. Contact us to design an RFID solution that matches your mission.

Be Ready for Your Next Mission

The best time to prepare is before challenges arise. A quick assessment today could prevent costly disruptions tomorrow. Whether you need to track tools in real time, speed up audits, or improve asset visibility, AB&R (American Barcode & RFID) has the expertise and technology to make it happen.

With over 40 years as a leader in data capture, tracking, mobile computing, and IoT solutions, we’ve helped businesses across industries maximize efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings. Our solutions include automated data capture, product identification, compliance labeling, and managed services — all designed to keep your operations mission-ready.

Visit AB&R’s website or call 800-281-3056. We’ll help you make informed decisions that keep your business in the lead.

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