Smart Pallet Tracking: New Tech Promises Years of Data for Under $5
Table of Contents
A new generation of wirelessly powered sensors is poised to revolutionize supply chain management, offering companies a cost-effective way to monitor the location and condition of goods in transit. The technology, once considered futuristic, is now being deployed by major corporations seeking greater transparency and regulatory compliance.
The demand for enhanced tracking is particularly strong in Europe, where consumers are increasingly focused on the origin of their food. “People in Europe are very conscious about where their food is coming from and, to comply with regulations, companies need to have sensors on the pallets,” a supply chain expert stated. Beyond origin tracking, these smart tags can also monitor critical factors like temperature, ensuring perishable goods like meat are transported safely.
The Challenge of Connectivity
While the potential benefits are significant, implementing these sensors isn’t without its hurdles. A key challenge lies in maintaining connectivity as goods move between diverse environments. “When the devices are moving from trucks to logistics hubs, to warehouses, and to retail stores, they need to connect to different technologies,” one analyst noted. This requires a robust and adaptable system capable of integrating with various existing infrastructure.
Energous Leads the Way with Ambient IoT
One company at the forefront of this innovation is Energous, which announced its e-Sense Tag in June. The company offers a complete ambient IoT platform encompassing wirelessly powered sensors, RF-based energy transmitters, and cloud-based monitoring software. Energous has already sold over 15,000 transmitters, with a customer base that includes two Fortune 10 companies operating in the retail and logistics sectors.
The e-Sense Tag is priced around $5 per unit, though the final cost may fluctuate as the product enters full commercialization. While slightly more expensive than disposable tags costing less than $1, the new tags offer a significant advantage: longevity. “They will last for years, and can be reprogrammed,” according to a company release. This durability translates to a lower total cost of ownership over time.
From Science Fiction to Reality
The rapid development of this technology has surprised even industry insiders. “Three years ago, it was science fiction,” said a senior official at Energous. “Today, it’s something we’re deploying.” The transition mirrors the shift from wired internet to the ubiquity of Wi-Fi, promising a future where real-time data is readily available throughout the entire supply chain.
. This technology represents a significant step toward a more transparent, efficient, and secure global logistics network.
