Practice performance expectations for smart packaging

There seems to be a common expectation among radio frequency identification (RFID) newcomers that putting an inexpensive, passive smart label on a box will create an accounting nirvana. Boxes will be read automatically at any and every point where trading partners have installed a reader. But, reality comes crashing in when a pallet of cases comes through a dock door for the first time and only a handful of the labels can be read. Suddenly disappointment, bitterness and buyers remorse sets in.

This paper will address the expectations that are initially set when dealing with UHF RFID systems in the retail supply chain.  First, it will look at realities surrounding read rates and how to address the gaps based on available time and money.   It will then address choosing the right tags and then provide practical and effective metrics and test methods to consider.  Finally, it will provide recommendations on setting realistic expectations for the RFID system.