Asset tracking is the process of tracking an asset’s location and it is also known as asset management. The main objective of asset tracking is to avoid theft and loss, gain valuable business information on asset movement, and maximize operational efficiency. With the development in IoT solutions, tagging, and cloud-based software, tracking is becoming easy-to-use and an essential part of any asset tracking initiative. So much so that the global market is estimated to be worth $36 billion by 2025 as per report.
Asset tracking can be executed with the help of smart tags, which use technology such as RFID, NFC or GPS. The use of QR codes over barcodes is also observed in asset tracking which communicates with a scanner and updates the cloud with the asset whereabouts.
Asset tracking brings many benefits on the table. From streamlining the operations to better visibility in the supply chain. However, one problem which has remained is theft and tampering that occurs during transit and the inability to pinpoint exactly where and when it happened, how it happened, who is responsible and hence how can it be stopped.
Asset security can be improved with Smart electronic locks to be used for securing closed door vehicles during transit. The Internet of Things (IoT) solution – a combination of hardware connected to cloud software – enables companies to reduce theft and pilferage and secure their goods when they are moved from one place to another.
The Electronic Cargo Tracking System Helps Companies to:
- Secure Vehicles Using Smart, Reusable, Electronic Locks
- Track Key Metrics and Optimize Operations Using Analytics
- Get Real-time Alerts for Tamper Attempts and Threshold Breaches
The Electronic lock is an active device with a heavy-duty outer body and cables making it one of the strongest locking mechanisms available in the market. Any attempt made at tampering with the device to manipulate it is notified to the company for immediate action.
Similar to the electronic lock, there is another security device by the name of RFID eseal which is specifically developed for container movement over the sea. This RFID solution is a one time use passive seal unlike the electronic cargo tracking system. This replaces the traditional bolt seal being used for container movements and links data about the container with the paired RFID eseal. These patented smart seals also talk to a track and trace cloud platform to digitize logistics operations. The RFID seal for containers is used by companies across the globe to ensure security of their cargo, reduce disputes between buyer and supplier and ease insurance claims management. Countries like Taiwan and India have mandated the use of Rfid eseal for container movements.
These new age technologies help answer questions that were unanswered by traditional asset tracking systems.
Where?
The intelligent cloud software records details of each scan along with tamper status. Using an RFID eseal or ECTS would update the software and capture an alert of any suspicious activity or tamper update on the system along with the location and time. Companies can now easily present such data for insurance and use the same for making decisions about changing the route or inform the authorities.
How?
The RFID Eseal usually locks the container door and any damage to the seal will be easily observed. A culprit who plans to cut the seal and replace it with a similar seal or reattach the same seal with the help of glue loses the ability to pull off such a heist due to the inbuilt tamper loop. On the other hand if the culprit brings down the entire container door through its hinges, the ECTS smart lock secures the not only the container door but also the hinges with its long cable.
Who?
Often times, theft is an internal deed and needs access to goods, container or the truck. However it is impossible to regulate who is allowed or who has access to the products. A smart electronic lock limits access to goods to designated people and can also be accessed remotely. This means the driver also need not have the key to access the lock or products. Companies can therefore easily know who accessed the lock for unnecessary reasons.
Companies globally are deploying digital security solutions like these that combine physical and digital security to create phygitial security. If your company has been facing such issues, and you want to learn more about digitizing not only for traceability but also for security, you should connect with Sepio Products and find solutions that fit your supply chain by mailing at hello@sepioproducts.com