RFID and Returnable Transport Items Management: An Activity-based Model to Assess the Costs and Benefits in the Fruit and Vegetable Supply Chain

Abstract

Radio Frequency Identification (RFId) technology promises to enable substantial benefits in Returnable Transport Items management. Lured by this opportunity, some companies (e.g. Metro Group) are carrying out pilot projects, but the difficulties in quantifying the costs and benefits stemming from such applications still prevent many companies from using this technology. This paper describes an analytical model to assess the profitability of such investments, focusing on the fruit and vegetable supply chain.