RFID labels and their areas of application

RFID labels, also known as radio or transponder labels, are becoming increasingly important in the labelling of products in the movement of goods. They are used to label pallets, retail units and consumer units efficiently and transparently. This technology not only enables precise traceability, but also considerable time and cost savings.

Advantages of RFID labels

RFID labels take over tasks that were previously realised by barcode labels. Traditionally, pallets carry large labels in ISO A5 or ISO A6 format, which contain logistical information such as ILN (International Location Number), SSCC (Shipping Unit Number), article numbers, best-before dates (BBD) and weights. This data is applied both in plain text and in coded form using barcodes. When pallets are broken down, individual trading units are recorded and damaged or faulty units must also be documented individually when they are returned. The use of RFID labels optimises this process considerably.

RFID printing and dispensing systems

The introduction of RFID labels into existing processes requires special printing and dispensing systems. These systems combine printing and programming units to ensure both the physical printing of the label and the electronic programming of the RFID chip.

RFID label printers

RFID printers are equipped with a read/write unit that enables the required data to be printed on the label and the transponder to be programmed at the same time. The workflow involves the data being transferred from the computer to the printer. There it is applied to the label, while the RFID unit writes the corresponding data to the chip. The result is a fully customised RFID label that combines optical and electronic information.

RFID print dispensers

RFID print dispensers go one step further. They not only print and programme the label, but also apply it directly to the product or packaging in an automated process. This increases efficiency and ensures precise placement of the labels, which is particularly advantageous at high production speeds.

Areas of application for RFID labels

RFID labels can be used in a wide range of applications across numerous industries:

• Logistics: optimisation of warehouse and shipping processes through fast and error-free identification of goods.
• Retail: Automation of stock controls and theft protection.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Ensuring the traceability and authenticity of medicines.
• Automotive industry: Tracking of components along the supply chain.
• Food industry: Labelling of fresh products with detailed information on origin and shelf life.

Future prospects for RFID technology

With the increasing digitalisation and automation of production and logistics processes, the importance of RFID labels will continue to grow. In addition to traditional applications in product labelling, new areas of application are opening up, for example in Industry 4.0, where RFID systems can play a key role in the networking and control of machines and production lines.

Conclusion

RFID labels are a modern, efficient and future-proof solution for product marking. They enable faster processes, reduce errors and offer companies greater transparency in their workflows. With special printing and dispensing systems, RFID solutions can be seamlessly integrated into existing infrastructures.