The mobile workforce, in accordance with the progress of the mobile world, is an inherently growing entity. With catalysts like the prominence of smartphones, the developing constant presence of Wi-fi, and more mobile software applications, it’s hard not to go mobile. With asset tracking systems, the mentality is the same.
Standalone, asset management systems are a worthy investment, yielding monumental returns for the business that implements one. But can going mobile do even more for asset management? Research in the field says yes, even in the warehouse.
Mobile Forklift RFID
In fact, mobile systems can actually be implemented cheaper than a set RFID infrastructure, and at the same they are applicable to more situations. The evidence of the benefits from a mobile RFID system points toward its usage on forklifts.
Forklifts don’t seem like the most high-tech mobile solution available, but their presence in the warehouse is unprecedented. By going mobile solely in the warehouse, a myriad of benefits are provided.
This special forklift has a mobile computer (rugged, for sustained use in a tough environment) integrated closely with RFID read/write capabilities. This gives all the efficiency boosting practices of a standard computerized RFID system that would be tracked from a desk to the portable forklift.
Aside from reduced capital expenditures due to a less complex implementation process, a mobile forklift RFID system helps ROI with increased asset utilization, provided scalability, and supporting labor-saving processes.
Asset Utilization
RFID forklift systems are equipped with the ability to track location in real time, enhancing asset utilization inherently. It allows for the user to process goods wherever they are handled, eliminating the middle man between the forklift and the RFID on the computer.
The applications of mobile readers are greater than those of a set infrastructure. They can be used at all stages in the processing of goods in the warehouse, and real-time feedback can be provided. Automatically recording items in any locations (especially unmarked ones) prevents loss of any important assets.
Scalability
Avoid purchasing more RFID readers than necessary with a scalable system that can be used anywhere throughout the facility. This allows for the usage of mobile RFID even in dock door applications and processes, including picking, replenishment, shipment verification, inventory transfers, and more. The inherent widespread usability of the mobile system is perhaps its greatest advantage.
Labor-Savings, Monetary Savings, Efficiency
Where barcode systems or manual data entry are time-consuming and difficult, the mobile RFID system tracks everything in the warehouse, accomplishing the tasks of barcode scanning and data entry in real time, all the time. Inventory handling and shipping errors can be virtually eradicated and decisions can be made on optimal stocking, based on the data collected automatically from the RFID tags.
METRO group reported a 14% labor reduction and an 18% reduction in lost goods, ultimately saving the company far more over time than the system costs to implement initially.
Saving time and money and improving the company are compelling reasons to make the investment in an RFID system. As prominent businesses flock to this technology, it will take its place in the industry. Make the investment now, and be a step ahead of the industry, leading the path to efficient mobile business.
For general asset management solutions, go to http://www.abr.com/Solution/New-Asset-Management.