From the efficient handling of goods to being able to track a shipment, effective transportation labeling is the key to smooth logistics throughout the global supply chain. In order to highlight the importance of each aspect of transportation labels, we have pulled together some of the key concepts with examples of how they provide value.
Regulatory standards
Without adhering to compliance standards, a shipment is not going to get far. Whether being sent domestically or internationally, the labeling will be required to meet a set of standards that ensure they can be shipped both safely and accurately. The supply chain requires standardization so essential information such as customs documentation, hazardous material warnings, and any handling instructions should be clearly displayed.
Depending on the goods that are being shipped, regulations may vary. For example, the labels on hazardous materials must comply with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System (GHS) to ensure that carriers and handlers have the information they need, and in the event of an emergency, responders can act accordingly.
Barcodes and RFID tags
Barcodes and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags encode key pieces of information about the contents, origin, and destination. A barcode is typically printed onto transportation labels and can be scanned by a handheld device or automated systems. On the other hand, RFID tags use radio waves which transmit data wirelessly so real-time updates can be given without having to be beside the shipment.
For a large retail organization who receives various shipments from different suppliers, having barcodes and RFID tags means they can accurately keep an eye on inventory levels and restock without having to do manual counts. For more advanced shipment needs, such as goods which need to be kept in refrigerated conditions, temperature-sensitive RFID tags mean the company can ensure that the goods remain within specified temperature ranges during transit.
Return labeling
For businesses who have to facilitate customer returns,the return label provides clear instructions on how to send back items, as well as providing the company with information on how to process the returns accurately.
For example, an online fashion retailer will need to deal with a lot of returns from customers who wished to try on more than one clothing size or did not like how some of the items suited them. By providing pre-printed return labels in each package, the customer can fill out the information needed and follow the instructions on how to return the package. Once the package reaches the company’s warehouse, the label will allow them to identify the sender and process the return efficiently, improving customer satisfaction.
Sending overseas
In today’s day and age, international trade is commonplace and to ensure the supply chain can meet demand, standardization is needed to accommodate different languages and local regulations. The process of localization means workers throughout the process can interpret the information they need from the transportation labels and sort the shipment accordingly.
When a company is shipping overseas, the labels should be printed using languages from both the origin and the destination, eradicating language barriers by ensuring that everyone from the sorting to the delivery can access key pieces of information.
Similar Questions
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