Bluetooth Inventory Tags for Warehouses & Pallet Tracking
Bluetooth Inventory tags for warehouse inventory stocktake management and pallet tracking can help immediately reduce the time required for inventory stocktake and cycle counting activities in warehouses and production environments, especially in Industry 4.0 applications.
How to Choose Warehouse Inventory Tag Types (RFID, Bluetooth)
- Passive RFID (UHF): These offer long read ranges (up to 30 meters) and are suitable for pallet tracking and bulk inventory management.
- Active RFID: These have their power source and offer real-time tracking and location accuracy. Ideal for high-value items or moving items.
- Barcode: Simple and cost-effective, but limited to line-of-sight scanning and requires manual data entry.
- Bluetooth tags: Lightweight, have a battery life of up to 10 years. Bluetooth AoA provides higher location accuracy
Best Practices for Inventory Tag Placement in Warehouses
- Location: Consider access points, potential obstructions, and proximity to other tagged items. Ideally, a mesh network will overcome obstructions and complex warehouse layouts
- Orientation: Ensure consistent tag position for optimal read accuracy.
- Surface: Choose adhesive or mounting options that adhere well to your inventory materials without damaging them. Most of the inventory tags are IP67-certified
Implement hardware and software:
- Readers and Anchors: Choose compatible readers and antennas for your chosen tag type and desired read range. Preferably battery operated anchors ensure minimal wiring with the help of LoRaWAN gateway devices.
- Warehouse Management System (WMS): Integrate your tags with an existing WMS for real-time inventory tracking, data analysis, and reporting for inventory stocktake accuracy
- Mounting fixtures: Consider racks, shelves, or other options for secure and efficient tag placement. Inventree RTLS integration can be considered for a ready-to-deploy solution.
Inventory Tag encoding and labelling
- Encode necessary data: Product ID, serial number, batch number, date of arrival or other relevant information.
- Labelling: Ensure clear and durable labelling for manual identification, if needed.
System testing and training
- Test read range and accuracy: Ensure warehouse inventory tags are properly detected, and data is captured reliably.
- Train staff: Teach employees how to use the system, interpret data, and respond to alerts and notifications.
Additional considerations for Warehouse Management
- Local regulations: Ensure compliance with relevant regulations regarding BLE technology and data privacy.
- Environmental factors: Consider heat, humidity, and dust in your warehouse and choose inventory tags accordingly.
- Support and maintenance: Choose a vendor with reliable support and maintenance services to ensure system uptime.
Resources for deploying Bluetooth inventory tags:
- RipplesIPS: RTLS asset tracking and inventory tags
- RFID India: https://rfid.indianrailways.gov.in/
Remember, successful deployment involves careful planning, choosing the right technology, and thorough training. Consider involving a professional consultant or system integrator for complex setups for RTLS software
Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need help with specific aspects of deploying inventory tags in your warehouse for implementing FiFo models and Digital Twins.