UPS rolls out RFID across US network

UPS has completed the nationwide rollout of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology across its US small-package network, becoming the first major logistics provider to deploy the technology at scale across its integrated operations.

Introduced in April, the RFID system is now installed in every US package car, delivery facility, and on shipments originating from more than 5,500 The UPS Store locations, including return packages.

According to Jon Bell, Strategic Innovation Lead at UPS’s Advanced Technology Group, the technology has reduced package misloads by nearly 70%, improving delivery reliability while reducing operational rework.

“RFID has decreased misloads by nearly 70%, meaning less rework and more reliable delivery,” Bell says. “The shift to sensing should also reduce the number of customer service calls asking about a package’s location.”

UPS says the deployment is the result of years of collaboration across its operations, technology, engineering, marketing, sales, customer solutions, and The UPS Store network.