Why adopt RFID scanning in your supply chain? The complete guide with Everest TMS
RFID scanning: a silent revolution in logistics
In a transport and logistics sector where every second counts, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology is progressively establishing itself as an essential standard. Unlike traditional barcodes, which require direct optical reading label by label, RFID allows you to scan dozens of items simultaneously, without visual contact, through a box or an entire pallet.
This seemingly technical difference radically transforms daily operations: goods receipt, order picking, inventories, truck loading… Everything becomes faster, more reliable, and above all much less prone to human error.
How does RFID scanning actually work?
The principle is simple: an RFID label (also called a tag) contains an electronic chip and an antenna. When an RFID reader emits a radio wave, the chip responds by transmitting its unique identifier (EPC). This process requires neither direct line of sight nor individual handling of the products.
The key advantages of RFID in the field
- Bulk reading: up to several hundred tags per second
- Extended reading distance: from a few centimeters to several meters depending on the frequency
- Resistance: tags withstand dust, humidity and shocks
- Full traceability: each item has a unique identifier
- Automation: drastic reduction of manual data entry
Who is RFID relevant for?
Long reserved for large groups due to its cost, RFID is now accessible to a wide range of supply chain players. Here are the profiles that benefit the most:
Carriers and couriers
For a carrier, RFID accelerates loading and unloading operations. No more package-by-package check-in: simply passing under an RFID gate (or a group scan with a sled) allows you to instantly verify that a pallet is complete and that all packages match the planned route.
Logistics providers and warehouse managers
The cycle counts, which previously took days, can now be carried out in a few hours. RFID also makes it possible to quickly locate a misplaced item, validate an order picking without error, and streamline goods receipt.
Manufacturers and distributors
In retail as well as in industry, RFID secures the flow between warehouse, store and delivery point, while offering real-time visibility on stocks.
Why is RFID still underused despite its advantages?
If RFID offers so many benefits, why is it not yet widespread? The answer lies in three points:
- Hardware cost: historically, professional RFID readers cost between €2,000 and €5,000 per unit.
- Integration complexity: few business software applications (TMS, WMS) natively support RFID.
- Team training: adopting RFID requires suitable support.
It is precisely on these three obstacles that Everest TMS provides concrete solutions.
Everest TMS: one of the few TMS truly equipped for RFID
In the Transport Management Systems market, very few vendors offer native and robust RFID support. Everest TMS stands out as an exception by integrating several cutting-edge scanning technologies:
DataWedge Zebra compatibility
Everest TMS fully supports DataWedge on Zebra terminals, the benchmark in the professional world. Companies already equipped with Zebra PDAs can therefore leverage their existing fleet without additional investment.
Support for Chafon H10X readers, including the H103 SE UHF Bluetooth
This is where the real democratic revolution takes place. Everest TMS now supports Chafon RFID sleds, and in particular the flagship model: the Chafon H103 SE UHF Bluetooth. This compatibility opens the door to RFID for SMEs and mid-sized companies which, until now, considered the investment too heavy.
A Chafon RFID sled costs a fraction of the price of an equivalent industrial reader, while offering remarkable performance for the majority of logistics use cases.
Focus on the Chafon H103 SE UHF Bluetooth
This RFID reader deserves attention as it ticks all the boxes for intensive professional use:
Bluetooth 5.3 BLE connectivity
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 BLE, the H103 SE ensures a stable and fast connection with any Android or iOS device. A simple warehouse smartphone is enough to run the solution.
Integrated Android system
The H103 SE runs natively on Android. It becomes a standalone terminal capable of running Everest TMS directly, without relying on a third-party device.
International UHF frequency
Compatible with the 865–868 MHz (Europe) and 902–928 MHz (Americas/Asia) bands, it adapts to international operations without changing hardware.
Impinj E310 processor
Based on the Impinj E310 chip, the global benchmark for UHF RFID, the reader ensures fast and accurate reading of EPC GEN2 (ISO18000-6C) tags. Performance rivals that of much more expensive equipment.
6400 mAh battery life
With a 6400 mAh battery, the device lasts a full day of intensive use without recharging. Ideal for long-duration inventories or fixed receiving/shipping stations.
Concretely, what gains can be expected with Everest TMS + RFID?
The combination of a modern TMS like Everest and an affordable RFID reader like the Chafon H103 SE transforms operations:
- Goods receipt: validation of an entire pallet in seconds
- Order picking: immediate detection of an incorrect or missing item
- Route loading: automatic control of truck contents before departure
- Delivery traceability: RFID reading upon customer handover for proof of delivery
- Inventories: 5 to 10 times faster to complete
A rapid return on investment
Thanks to the Everest TMS + Chafon combination, a ROI in less than a year becomes realistic, even for a small structure. The entry ticket is now compatible with the budgets of transport SMEs.
Everest TMS: designed for modern carriers
Everest TMS is the next-generation transport management software, designed to support carriers, couriers and logistics providers in their digital transformation. Its strength? A complete, intuitive platform, and above all open to field innovations like RFID.
With native support for DataWedge Zebra and the recent integration of Chafon H10X readers, Everest TMS offers one of the most flexible RFID ecosystems on the market. Whether you are equipped with high-end professional hardware or looking for an accessible solution, Everest TMS adapts to your reality. Add to this comprehensive route management, customer tracking, invoicing and reporting, and you get a tool designed to save time and money at every stage.
Conclusion: RFID is no longer a luxury, it’s a competitive advantage
RFID scanning is no longer a technology reserved for logistics giants. Thanks to readers like the Chafon H103 SE UHF Bluetooth and visionary TMS like Everest TMS, it becomes a concrete and accessible lever for all transport players.
Increased reliability, measurable productivity gains, error reduction, better customer satisfaction: the benefits are real and quickly quantifiable. If your supply chain still relies solely on barcodes, it may be time to take the plunge. Everest TMS supports you in this transition, with a robust, economical and ready-to-use solution.
