EPC-RFID based applications have drawn extensive interest in the operation of the distribution center. Innovators argue that RFID technology can make distribution centers more cost effective. Several studies have suggested the operational improvements available through RFID systems can be summarized as follows:

Shipping and Receiving:

Automated processing of loading and unloading
Reduced labor requirements
Faster processing
Automatic cross docking
Automatic generation of 100 percent accurate electronic manifests

Storage and Fulfillment:

Correct product storage locations
Faster product retrieval
Fewer order errors
Reduced losses and shrinkage of assets
Improved order fill rates and times
Less safety stock required

Task and Resource Management:

Automatic updating of tasks for each resource
Improved automation and accuracy of flow control
Improved real-time monitoring of operations
Automatic conveyance and sorting
Automated and accurate picking and packing

RFID-based solutions need to be kept in focus. A primary objective of RFID systems is to provide real-time visibility into all of the supply chain. To achieve that end, the distribution center needs to be part of the real-time, RFID-enabled supply chain.