Returnable containers are a vital part of the supply chain in the business world. They’re used to store and transport goods from one place to another, but as anyone who has worked with them knows, they can be difficult to keep track of. That’s where tracking shipping containers comes in.
What is Container Tracking?
Container tracking is the process of monitoring the location and status of shipping containers as they move through the supply chain. A container tracking solution is a software that helps businesses to track their shipping containers throughout the supply chain. There are various solutions available in the market, each with its own set of features. The most basic container tracking solution will simply provide the location of a container at any given time. More advanced solutions will also provide information on the container’s contents, estimated arrival time, and even the condition of the container. Container tracking solutions are used by businesses of all sizes, from small businesses to large multinational corporations. They are an essential tool for managing the supply chain and ensuring that goods arrive on time and in good condition.
Benefits of Shipping Container Tracking
There are many benefits of shipping container tracking, including economic, environmental, logistics, and security.
- Economic benefits: container tracking can help to reduce the cost of goods by reducing lost and damaged shipments. It can also help to improve customer satisfaction by providing accurate information about estimated delivery times.
- Environmental benefits: shipping container tracking can help to reduce emissions from transportation by providing accurate information about routes and schedules. It can also help to improve fuel economy by reducing idling and empty miles.
- Logistics benefits: container tracking can help to improve the efficiency of transportation operations by providing critical information about the location and status of shipments. It can also help to reduce congestion and delays by allowing carriers to better plan their routes.
- Security benefits: shipping container tracking can help to prevent theft and fraud by providing visibility into the movement of shipments. It can also help to reduce the risk of cargo loss and damage by providing early detection of potential problems.
Overall, container tracking offers a number of benefits that can be leveraged by businesses of all sizes. By keeping tabs on their shipments, businesses can optimize their operations, reduce their costs along with their carbon footprint, and improve their customer satisfaction levels.
What to Consider when Selecting a Container Tracking Solution
When choosing a solution, it is important to consider the following factors:
- What degree of accuracy is required? Real-time tracking is not always necessary, and may not be worth the extra cost. The degree of accuracy required will also affect the type of technology used, which we discuss in-depth below.
- How much data do you require? Some container tracking solutions provide detailed information on container location and status, while others only provide basic information. Choose a solution that offers the right level of data for your needs.
- What functionality would be most beneficial? Some container tracking solutions offer more comprehensive tracking than others. Decide what is most important for your business and look for a solution that offers the features you need.
- How easy is the solution to use? Some container tracking solutions are very easy to use, while others are more complex. Make sure that the solution you choose is user-friendly and easy to set up and use.
- Does the solution scale? Some container tracking solutions can be used for small businesses, while others are designed for large businesses. Choose a tracking solution that can be scaled to meet your needs.
- How much does the solution cost? Some container tracking solutions are very expensive, while others are more affordable. It is important to choose a solution that fits within your budget.
By considering these factors, you can choose the container tracking solution that best meets your needs.
Container Tracking Technology
Technology has revolutionized the container tracking process, making it easier and more efficient than ever before. There are several different technologies being used in modern container tracking solutions:
RFID Container Tracking
RFID container tracking is a method of tracking container movements using radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. The tags are attached to the outside of containers and can be read by RFID readers as the containers move through port facilities, container terminals, and other logistics hubs. This information can then be used to track the location of the container and its contents in real-time.
RFID container tracking is becoming increasingly popular as it offers a more efficient and accurate way to track shipping containers than traditional methods such as barcodes or manual data entry. Moreover, RFID tags are more resilient to damage and estrangement than other types of container tracking devices, making them ideal for use in harsh environments. However, RFID signals can be blocked by metal containers, making them less reliable in some environments.
GPS Container Tracking
GPS container tracking systems use the same satellite-based technology as car navigation systems. Tracking devices are placed inside containers and transmit their location to a central database via satellite. In addition to container location, GPS tracking systems also provide information on container status, including whether the container has been opened or closed, and whether its contents have been tampered with. This information is critical for ensuring that cargo arrives at its destination intact and can be immediately put into use. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to using GPS container tracking, such as the possibility of data breaches and the reliance on satellite signals.
BLE Container Tracking
BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) is increasingly becoming the preferred option for many companies. Each container is outfitted with a BLE beacon, which emits a signal that can be detected by nearby devices. By leveraging gateways at key points along the container’s route – such as at loading docks, gates, and railheads – it’s possible to track the container movement in real-time.
BLE container tracking has a number of advantages over other tracking technologies. First, it’s relatively low-cost and easy to implement. Second, BLE tags have a long battery life, so they don’t need to be frequently replaced. Finally, BLE tracking is highly accurate, making it ideal for companies that need to maintain close control over their inventory.
With so many options available, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right container tracking technology will vary depending on the size and complexity of the supply chain, the type of goods being shipped, and the budget of the business. By taking the time to select the right container tracking technology, businesses can ensure that their supply chains are running smoothly and efficiently.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right container tracking system is to consult with an expert who can assess your specific needs and make a recommendation. Our team is available and looks forward to helping you select the right solution for your supply chain needs.
Last Updated on January 26, 2023 by Radiant