Improving intermodal container logistics and security by RFID

Abstract

After the recent economic crisis, container terminal and transport operators are again facing several challenges like increasing cargo volumes and security demands that put additional burden on them. The CHINOS project supports operators to exploit these challenges, the related changes in business processes and the opportunities for process automation in the best possible way by employing innovative IT technology solutions like RFID (radio frequency identification) and SCEM (Supply Chain Event Management). Several processes in terminals can be optimised and accelerated tremendously by using automatic identification and condition checks with contact free reading possibilities using container RFID tags without requiring human intervention. Furthermore, container security can be enhanced using RFID technology, especially electronic seals. CHINOS puts a special focus on the integration of these new technologies into the terminals' business processes and the demonstration of its success at several European locations. Furthermore, the CHINOS technology was successfully integrated in the SICIS system developed in the follow-up project INTEGRITY with the aim to achieve complete Supply Chain Visibility and tested under real-life conditions on a tradelane from Hong Kong to Europe.