LAF and Warehouse Product Control, Compliance & Shipping Management

Introduction

How LAF improved shipping efficiency and warehouse management through the adoption of advanced InfinityID solutions and the use of RFID labels.

The project generated measurable benefits in production batch management, warehouse operations and logistics workflows. By leveraging RFID technology, LAF automated key processes, ensured accurate tracking of IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers), and enhanced operational efficiency while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Benefits:

Drastic reduction of human error

Time savings during goods quality checks

Automation of order fulfillment procedures

Real-time shipment verification

Customer Overview

LAF srl, part of the DEA&DEA group, consolidates the expertise of companies that have been leaders in preparing industrial packaging for reuse for over 25 years.

A strong commitment to environmental responsibility, combined with comprehensive environmental authorizations and certifications, as well as a specialized team working with passion and professionalism, ensures high-quality services for LAF’s clients.

Project Overview

With multiple facilities, including one in Volta Mantovana, LAF faced the challenge of ensuring precise traceability of IBCs prepared for reuse, fully complying with all END OF WASTE regulations. The implementation of RFID labels enables automatic monitoring of preparation, warehouse availability, and shipment of IBCs, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual checks while ensuring regulatory compliance with the six-month shipping requirement for regenerated IBCs. To further optimize the process, LAF batches are equipped with RFID labels containing unique codes generated according to sender-defined algorithms, along with specific information such as production date (e.g., 2023-04-12). Using a label management interface, LAF operators can generate the required number of RFID labels containing the batch code, simplifying the workflow.

RFID Label Encoding

Each IBC is labeled on-site by applying a tag that integrates an RFID chip. The encoding process is performed simultaneously with label printing using specialized printers, which transfer the information from the InfinityID database to the RFID chip.

Real-Time Shipment Verification

By using handheld RFID readers, LAF can verify in real time all IBC codes loaded onto a given vehicle, automatically recording them on transport documents and invoices, ensuring data accuracy.

Real-Time Warehouse Management

LAF uses two LOGiC suites: “Real Time Inventory” to have a real-time view of IBCs in the warehouse and “Document Manager” to track all RFID transactions performed with handheld readers. These solutions allow operators to access ERP information in real time, ensuring an efficient connection between operational activity and data flow within the management system.

Control and Compliance

Thanks to RFID inventory and scanning, LAF warehouse staff can easily identify which IBCs to pick from the warehouse while complying with all applicable regulations. RFID reading verifies the consistency between expected and actual items, flagging any discrepancies that require operator intervention, ensuring reliable and accurate shipment management.