RFID Inmould Labels – Smart Traceability

Inotec is proud to introduce its latest innovation in smart labelling – RFID Inmould Labels – a durable, high-performance solution that offers permanent identification and real-time tracking for reusable containers, even in the most demanding environments.

Bringing together the advantages of RFID Auto ID and in-mould labelling, Inotec’s RFID Inmould Labels offer durability, accuracy and sustainability. Developed in-house and tested in live customer applications, they are already helping leading logistics and packaging companies move away from single-use plastics while gaining full transparency across their supply chains.

Smart tray tracking at scale

A recent collaboration with EPT (Euro Plant Tray) demonstrates the real-world benefits of this solution. In the plant wholesale sector, over 95% of trays are currently single-use, contributing to around 40,000 tonnes of discarded plastic waste each year in Europe alone. EPT sought a reusable alternative that could deliver both environmental gains and digital traceability.

Working with EPT, Inotec developed a customised RFID inmould label that is seamlessly bonded to the reusable tray during injection moulding. This label offers exceptional durability – it is flush with the surface, waterproof, UV-resistant, and resistant to cleaning chemicals and mechanical impacts. Despite its compact size, it delivers a high-performance read range and allows bulk scanning of up to 1,000 trays simultaneously, with no line-of-sight required.

EPT’s trays now feature a secure, embedded RFID label that supports real-time tracking, inventory management, and cross-border reuse. The RFID inmould label is helping EPT reduce waste, optimise its processes, and set a new European standard for smart, reusable transport packaging.

Advanced performance, built to last Inotec’s RFID inmould labels are based on its own INO-TAG DIOBOND range and incorporate high-performance NXP RAIN RFID chips.

Key benefits include:

● High-speed scanning – multiple tags can be read simultaneously, even at distances of up to 15 metres
● No line-of-sight required – increasing speed and accuracy while reducing labour
● Secure, high-capacity data storage – with the ability to store encrypted tracking and logistics data
● Extremely durable – scratch-proof, smear-proof, waterproof and resistant to chemicals and temperature fluctuations
● Fully recyclable – made from the same material as the container for easier recycling
● Reduced energy use – thanks to in-mould’s one-step automated production process

Ideal for regulated and high-compliance sectors RFID inmould labels are particularly suited to industries where hygiene, traceability and security are critical. In food and pharmaceuticals, the edgeless bond eliminates contamination risk and withstands freezing, washing and sterilisation. IML is also compliant with strict FDA regulations and prevents label tampering or counterfeiting, which is critical for protecting intellectual property and public health.

“With RFID Inmould Labels, we’re combining durability, traceability and environmental responsibility in one powerful solution,” says David Stocker, General Manager at Inotec. “As seen with EPT, this technology helps our customers meet growing regulatory demands, streamline their processes and take a major step towards a circular economy.”

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Automation in Last-Mile Delivery to Redefine Customer Experience

Customer demand has reached a breaking point with the boost in e-commerce, with options like next-day or same-day delivery becoming commonplace, writes Jon White, Chief Commercial Officer EMEA, at InXpress. To meet these demands and have packages delivered in record time, automation is imperative to revolutionise last-mile delivery.

Last-mile delivery is the most critical step in the process when a parcel has moved from a transportation hub toward its final destination. Logistics and supply chains are undergoing a radical transformation with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced robotics, working towards reaching customer demands. To meet these growing expectations, logistic providers must optimise aspects of their supply chain and utilise automation at every step. Gartner reports that measuring customer satisfaction will be the most valuable metric for strategic decisions, according to 69% of respondents to its ‘Gartner Future of Supply Chain’ Survey.

Click to doorstep: automation delivered

AI technology and automation in last-mile delivery helps to meet customer needs. Many technologies are being developed and becoming readily available to help speed up the process, reduce costs and manual labour, and keep the process more sustainable. Innovative technologies can help to provide faster and more efficient services in last-mile delivery. AI helps to transform the process while remaining responsive to consumer needs.

Jon White, InXpress

Below are some popular automation solutions and methods that are being used regularly and achieving success across last-mile delivery:

Self-driving robots

Humans can’t do it all. To meet the growing demand for delivery, logistics companies have recruited delivery robots. These autonomous robots have emerged in recent years, giving a glimpse into the future of last-mile delivery and how far it could go. Delivery robots are designed to transport goods over short distances and to reach the recipient in record time once the order has been placed. Each robot is equipped with the right technology so it can be suited to its environment and the task it’s been assigned to. It includes advancements like tracking so that every step can be watched in case of any complications reaching its destination including sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence capabilities. These self-driving robots aren’t designed to replace humans completely but rather, they distribute the load and cover short distances so logistic providers can focus on delivering other heavier and larger packages.

Automated delivery management platforms

Automated platforms that manage last-mile deliveries take advantage of AI and machine learning to orchestrate and successfully carry out delivery planning. Many logistic providers have incorporated management applications and software into their strategy so they can provide end-to-end automation of the delivery process. It helps to cater to the influx of deliveries, storing the data and ironing out all the logistics so every delivery is in order and on track at the right time. The management platforms can automate tedious tasks such as printing shipping labels, dispatching packages, and delivering them reliably. Streamlining the processes improves delivery times with faster options becoming available and increasing customer satisfaction.

AI-powered real-time tracking

Customers are eager to understand where their packages are once their order has been placed. With real-time tracking, powered by AI and machine learning, it is possible now. Real-time tracking provides predictive analytics, allowing companies to anticipate potential disruptions and streamline operations. Real-time visibility also allows logistic managers to make data-driven decisions, improving efficiency and visibility for customers on the other end. It also pleases the customers as they can watch every step of their delivery, from the warehouse to their front door. The options for automation in last-mile delivery are endless but there is still a lot of work to be done. Logistics providers work relentlessly to discover the latest technology that can tackle this and meet demand.

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Staying ahead of unpredictable weather

Weather is an unpredictable force that can wreak havoc on logistics in Europe, but there are strategies to mitigate its impact. As we navigate through the continent’s diverse and often harsh climates, it’s clear that we need a proactive approach to ensure our supply chains remain reliable and efficient.

Advanced Weather Forecasting and Planning

Investing in advanced weather forecasting tools is not just a smart move; it’s a necessity. Companies like DHL have shown the way by using sophisticated weather forecasting software to re-route deliveries and adjust schedules during severe weather. This proactive approach minimizes delays and ensures that packages still arrive on time, even when Mother Nature throws a curveball. It’s high time more logistics companies embrace this technology to stay one step ahead of the weather.

Infrastructure Improvements

We can’t control the weather, but we can control our infrastructure. Regular road maintenance, especially in areas prone to snow and ice, is crucial. Sweden’s investment in winter road maintenance, including regular snow plowing and de-icing, is a prime example of how to keep transport running smoothly during harsh winters. Germany’s post-2021 flood improvements in flood defenses and drainage systems show that learning from past weather events can lead to better preparedness. If more European countries followed suit, we’d see fewer disruptions and more resilient logistics networks.

Flexible Supply Chain Strategies

Flexibility in supply chain management is another key to weathering the storm. Diversifying suppliers and maintaining buffer stock can significantly reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions. During the 2018 “Beast from the East,” many European retailers avoided stockouts by having diversified suppliers and buffer stock in regional warehouses. This kind of forward-thinking approach should be the norm, not the exception, in the logistics industry.

Technology and Automation

Technology is our ally in the fight against weather-related disruptions. IoT devices that provide real-time tracking and automated warehousing systems can make a huge difference. Maersk’s use of IoT devices for real-time tracking helped them minimize delays during severe weather by enabling quick re-routing decisions. Amazon’s automated warehouses in Europe continued processing orders efficiently even during storms, thanks to their advanced systems. These examples show that investing in technology is a game-changer for logistics companies facing unpredictable weather.

Collaboration and Communication

Effective communication and collaboration between stakeholders are crucial for improving weather resilience. Cross-sector collaboration and keeping customers informed about potential delays help manage expectations and maintain trust. During severe winter storms in 2019, UK logistics companies collaborated with the government to clear highways, ensuring the continued flow of goods. In Spain, courier companies used SMS and email notifications to keep customers updated during storms, maintaining customer satisfaction despite delays. This level of transparency and cooperation should be standard practice in the logistics industry.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainable practices are not just good for the environment; they also help mitigate the impact of weather on logistics. Climate-resilient infrastructure and using electric vehicles improve reliability and reduce environmental impact. The Netherlands’ climate-resilient infrastructure has maintained logistics operations during severe weather. In Paris, logistics companies’ switch to electric delivery vans ensured efficient operations during fuel shortages caused by a snowstorm, as these vehicles were less affected by disruptions in fuel supply. Embracing sustainability is a win-win for logistics companies and the planet.

Conclusion

Mitigating the impact of weather on logistics in Europe requires a multifaceted approach. By investing in advanced forecasting, resilient infrastructure, flexible supply chains, technology, and effective communication, we can enhance our resilience to weather-related disruptions. As Europe faces more extreme weather, these strategies are essential for maintaining the smooth flow of goods, benefiting businesses and consumers alike. It’s time for the logistics industry to take weather seriously and implement these proactive measures to keep our supply chains running smoothly, no matter what the forecast says.

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