Container shipments are recognized as one of the world’s greatest security threats which drive for dramatic improvements in air and maritime security. Port Authorities are striving to increase efficiency through effective supply chain management, while focus is being placed on security, visibility and control. The problem is caused by the highly complex environment in which thousands of containers need to be handled at high speeds without automated business processes. Many shippers still use manual methods which can lead to tracking errors and mishandling.

Smartag’s RFID Container Management System consists of four main components, a RFID Container Security Device or RFID Seal which is attached to the container, Fixed RFID Readers at designated check points, the RFID Container Management Middleware and Application which is the mobile software that is designed to integrate, and interact between container management or yard management system and Smartrack™ EPCIS engine (RFID Repository). RFID Container Management System and Middleware are loaded into handheld reader to perform container RFID tag detection and heavily used for container RFID tag lock and tampered status confirmation. At the same time, Container Management System Adaptor and Middleware will send container RFID tag information to Smartrack EPCIS engine for container trace and track. Fixed readers will be able to detect the RFID container Seal as it passes through check points and automatically update the Smartrack™ EPCIS engine providing registered users real time location of the container.

RFID will enable the identification of containers over long distances and in demanding environments such as the port area. Automating the process alleviates the need for manual labour-intensive reconciliation. This will help in real-time identification and tracking of containers, reaching new levels of visibility, traceability and control.

RFID Container Security Device or RFID Seal is tailored to the requirements of the RFID Container Seal and conforming to the ISO18186. The device addresses application areas, which demand long operating distance, and high anti-collision rates such as container security and tracking. It records any tampering and unauthorized break of the seal as well as providing information to authorized checkpoints.

Features

1. Reduces the likelihood of any tamper event which may happen during container transit.
2. Verify that a container was loaded at a secure loading point.
3. Speed shipments through the supply chain
4. Avoid extensive delays in the shipment and receipt
5. Consistently monitor container security and integrity.
6. Gather enough data to conduct a ‘virtual inspection’ in advance of arrival.
7. Receive fast track handling through customs at the point of dispatch and/or the point of receipt.
8. Helps shipping containers meet governmental security regulations.

Benefits

1. Deter theft, diversion and counterfeiting.
2. Achieve more efficient and individual container traceability.
3. Improve supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.
4. Facilitate the flow of accurate and timely information across supply chain partners and government agencies.
5. Integrate the RFID technology into existing business processes and gaining competitive edge for the future.
6. Reduce face to face intervention, thereby reducing or eliminating opportunities for corrupt practices.
7. Optimize container logistics processes.

Module

1. RFID Container Seal – RFID Container Seal records every single lock or unlock event performed and when it is performed. Unauthorised lock or unlock will tamper the seal and triggers the alarm when the container passes through the check point. RFID Container Seal comes with large memory, allowing detailed information to be stored in the seal. The information stored in the seal can be used for faster customs clearance,e-document for port and etc. RFID Container Seal is reusable and it is environmental friendly.
2. Handheld PC with RFID Reader- Handheld PC with RFID Reader is used to initialize, write, issue lock or unlock command to the RFID Container Seal. Lock or unlock RFID Container Seal without command issued from the Handheld will tamper the seal.
3. Desktop RFID Reader – Desktop RFID Reader is used to initialize and write information into the RFID Container Seal in the convenience of office environment.
4. Readers at Check Points – RFID Readersare installed at check point to read the information in the RFID Container Seal affixed to the container. Information collected is uploaded to the Smartrack™ EPCIS or other repository, allowing shipper, freight forwarder, ports, and etc. to know the status of the container online. Container with RFID Container Seal intact is allowed to pass through without the need to physically check, which helps in faster clearance. Only container with tampered RFID Container Seal will be inspected.
5. Readers at Quay Crane - Readers at Quay Crane capture the status and information in the RFID Container Seal when container arrives. The status and information will then be uploaded to Smartrack™ EPCIS or other repository. It allows the shipper to know when the container is loaded or offloaded from the vessel. On top of that, if the seal is tampered, shipper can easily identify when the seal was tampered, whether it happened before or after the container was loaded or offloaded from the vessel.