When it comes to streamlining supply chain management, near-field communication (NFC) technologies are a vital component that shouldn’t be overlooked. Proper supply chain management is critical for your business's success, but there are a lot of moving parts that can disrupt the process and stop it from running smoothly. This is where technology comes into play. 


Running a business and managing your supply chain can be incredibly time-consuming. It can sometimes feel like you’re spinning one too many plates, such as inventory management, product tracking and logistics processes. Getting your products from A to B is no easy feat.


This is where NFC tags come in handy. They streamline your supply chain management and make keeping track of stock a breeze. Want to find out more? Keep reading for our complete guide!


First Things First, What Are NFC Tags?

NFC tags are passive devices that communicate wirelessly with NFC-enabled devices to enable the transfer of data over short distances. These tags can communicate with another device like a phone, tablet, or payment terminal. NFC has been used in a number of applications for many years, including interactive posters, business cards, the healthcare industry, and, most relevant to us, supply chain management. 


When it comes to their use within supply chains, NFC tags are typically attached to products. These tags can then be called using your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to access valuable data from that particular product. 


How Are NFC Tags Being Used In Supply Chains?

Contactless NFC tags are incredibly useful and are being used in a number of industries, including in supply chains. Some of the most common ways we are seeing NFC management being used are: 


  • Tagging Products: Within your supply chain, your products can be tagged with an NFC tag containing unique product data that you can access from your phone or tablet. 


  • Checkpoint Scanning: Items can be scanned at each stage as they move through the supply chain, so that you always know where your goods are. Checkpoints could include loading docks, the warehouse, the delivery centre, and finally, the final destination. 


  • Accurate Insights: You can access the scanned data and sync it with your backend so that you can forecast demand and ensure you always have the right amount of product in busy periods. 


What Are The Benefits Of Implementing NFC Supply Chain Management?

There are a number of different benefits of introducing NFC into the supply chain. From streamlining your workflow to always knowing exactly where your products are, these are some of the benefits of investing in NFC technology. 


Improved Inventory Management

If you have a large warehouse or many products, it can be difficult to keep track of everything. NFC inventory management makes knowing your stock levels a whole lot simpler. When you use NFC tags, you allow for real-time tracking so that you can effectively manage your stock levels and ensure you’re always stocked up with your bestsellers.


Improved Visibility

Much the same as being able to keep an eye on stock levels, NFC tags also make it easy for you to know exactly where your products are. You’ll know exactly where to find them in your warehouse, even if they’ve been recently moved, as a simple scan is all it takes to update the product data. This means fewer mistakes, and it ensures your entire team is kept informed on the location of your inventory.  


Smoother Logistics

Logistics is one of the most challenging parts of running a warehouse. You’ll never have to worry where your shipment is on its journey because NFC tags actively track it every step of the way. Your tags are simply scanned as they move through the shipping journey, so that you always know where they are and when they’ve arrived at their destination. 

Happier Customers

In addition to allowing you to track the status of your shipment, NFC tags make it easy for your customers to do the same. Your customers will be able to access real-time updates for their order so that they know exactly where it is and when it’s being delivered. This leads to happier and more informed customers and takes the pressure off your customer service teams, who have to relay shipping information to your customers. 


Streamline Your Supply Chain

NFC tags are simplifying your supply chain. By investing in NFC technology, you can keep a closer eye on your products, minimise the likelihood of human error, and keep your customers happy and informed. 

If you’re not sure which NFC system is going to work best for your supply chain, you can contact a member of our team today to find out more. Our team of experts can help guide you in the right direction so that you’re one step closer to a smooth-running warehouse.