TNT Express Deploys RFID Solution to Improve European Operations

AeroScout, a provider of unified asset visibility solutions, has deployed its Logistics Visibility solution at TNT Express, a Netherlands-based express delivery company. TNT Express leveraged its existing wireless network to implement AeroScout’s Wi-Fi RFID (radio-frequency identification) solution for automating inventory management, without needing to add a proprietary RFID network. The solution is designed to help TNT improve operations and prevent delivery delays by optimizing the inventory management of 16,000 assets across 200 depots in 29 European countries.

TNT Express deployed AeroScout’s Logistics RTLS (real-time location system) to automate the inventory management of its roll cages, which are metal carriers used to transport parcels between depots across the company’s extensive European road network. AeroScout’s Wi-Fi Tags are attached to each roll cage, and AeroScout’s MobileView software enables the tracking and management of the carriers and parcels. The solution helps eliminate the need to manually track and scan each roll cage to determine the inventory of cages at each depot. As a result, the solution can lead to improved asset utilization, decreased cage replacement costs and reduced delivery delays.

“With real-time visibility of our assets we’re able to maximize efficiencies across the board,” says Ben Klaassen, managing director at TNT Express Worldwide Networks. “The solution eliminates almost completely the manual inventory scanning of roll cages and empowers us to make quicker and better decisions.”

TNT Express uses AeroScout’s MobileView software to centrally manage 16,000 roll cages across the continent. Using searching, alerting and reporting capabilities, users are able to determine the real-time location of assets and optimize their use. The solution also generates alerts for surpluses and shortages of cages at depots.

“The AeroScout implementation fits in well with our overall RFID strategy and our desire to maximize existing technology investments where possible,” says Dennis Beard, chief technology officer at TNT Express ICS. “With no additional reader or network infrastructure required, we were able to minimize the time to market.”