Traceability of returnable reels

Need to improve the traceability of returnable reels in industry

There is a recurring challenge in industrial returnable reel companies and it is related to the tracking of each part that enters production and the life cycle of each reel until its disposal.

Lack of visibility into usage history can lead to operational inefficiencies, complicate regulatory compliance, and limit sustainability initiatives.

The main needs to be covered are:

Lack of traceability
The absence of tools to track reels in the supply chain makes it difficult to know their status and which suppliers are offering a better life cycle of the supplied reels.

Manual inventory management
Manual processes are slow, error-prone, and require significant effort.

Limited usage information
Lacking accurate data on the useful life of reels complicates planning and affects the quality of the products transported and provided to your customers.

Digital solution to know the traceability of returnable reels

Orkli’s eKanban solution, together with Batura, has provided intuitive and usable software in the workplace of operators who read returnable reels.

An advanced traceability system based on Android technology with RFID readers has been implemented. The process consists of an operator reading the label on each reel and the information is displayed on a common screen, which shows the use cycles that each piece has had.

This solution allows the organization to:

• Monitor the life of each reel: from manufacturing to final disposal, offering comprehensive visibility of the supply chain.
• Know the life cycles of each reel: You can identify those that must be discarded to avoid breakages in production and poor service to customers.
• Predictive maintenance: By analyzing usage history, preventive maintenance programs are implemented that extend the life of assets and reduce repair costs.
• Sustainability: Better use of resources and purchases is made.
• Circular Economy: Identify ways to extend reel life, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices.
• Regulatory Compliance: Facilitates alignment with environmental regulations and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to sustainability.
• Optimized processes: Automation improves cycle times and increases overall productivity.
• Cost reduction: Losses are reduced, inventories are optimized and logistics is improved, generating considerable savings.

By providing visibility into the product lifecycle, organizations can optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve their environmental impact. Additionally, these solutions strengthen business reputation by aligning with expectations of sustainability and social responsibility.