RFID is one of the most promising technologies in textile and apparel. Most enterprises will use RFID clothing tags for clothing manufacturing, logistics distribution, inventory management, etc. Since its launch, companies such as CVS, Prada, and Walmart have implemented the technology. They also explored the impact of the technology on their business. RFID occupies a significant position in the apparel industry.
RFID technology is used in various industries to track and manage inventory, including clothing retail. RFID tags are small electronic devices that can be attached to clothing items, and they use radio waves to communicate information wirelessly to a reader.
Here’s how clothing RFID tags work:
- RFID tags are attached to clothing items during the manufacturing process. These tags contain a microchip and a tiny antenna that can communicate with a reader.
- When a reader is within range, the RFID tag emits a radio signal that contains information about the item, such as the brand, size, color, and price.
- The reader captures the radio signal and converts it into data that can be sent to a computer or inventory management system.
- The data from the RFID tag is used to update inventory records and track the movement of clothing items within a store or warehouse.
RFID technology can also help prevent theft by alerting store personnel when a tagged item is removed from the store without being purchased.
RFID tags are electronic devices that automatically identify and track objects using radio waves. This technology has several benefits, including saving time, effort, and money. RFID tags allow data about objects to be collected and entered directly into computer systems without much human intervention. This can streamline many business processes, from manufacturing to sales.
For example, RFID tags can help reduce the time and effort required for inventory management. Rather than manually counting and tracking items, RFID tags can automatically identify and track them as they move through the supply chain. This can save time and reduce the risk of errors in tracking inventory.
In addition to inventory management, RFID tags can help streamline other processes, such as shipping and sales. RFID tags can help reduce the time and effort required to process orders and shipments by automatically identifying and tracking items. This can help businesses operate more efficiently and save money.
RFID vs Barcode: Which is Better in Clothing?
Barcodes have been around the world for a long time, and I’m sure many of you know that they have some drawbacks regarding product and identification.
For example, barcodes can only identify and track one product at a time and must be done linearly. It means that it takes more time when used to track and identify large quantities of clothing.
RFID requires less time to complete the task than barcodes. It does not require a straight line of sight and can track multiple products simultaneously.
RFID technology is more cost-effective than barcode technology. It gives businesses a better working experience. There are more distinct differences between them.
- Durability
Unlike barcodes, which need to be attached to the product, RFID labels can embed in the product. It is impervious to harsh conditions such as dirt and mess.
RFID can be used in most environments. You can use them for a more extended period. It saves you the cost of repair and replacement tags.
- Wider reading range
RFID labels can generally be divided into active and passive tags. The reader can read Passive RFID tags one meter away. It can easily read Active RFID tags even at 100 meters. Barcodes are better; Conversely, readers can only read them nearby.
- More memory
RFID tags have dynamic storage space. It can store more content.
- Read/Write Functionality
RFID systems provide read and write capabilities. You can use the reader to modify the data stored in it at any time. A barcode is an opposite. The reader can only read it after it has been printed and cannot be modified.
This table comparing RFID and barcode technology for clothing:
| Technology | RFID | Barcode |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Data Stored | RFID tags can store more data than barcodes, including unique identification numbers, item descriptions, and even manufacturing and shipping data. | Barcodes can store limited data, typically just a product number that must be cross-referenced with a database to obtain additional information. |
| Read Range | RFID tags can be read from a distance of several feet, allowing for rapid and accurate tracking of multiple items at once. | Barcodes must be scanned at close range, which can be time-consuming and require more manual labor. |
| Durability | RFID tags are generally more durable than barcodes and can withstand harsh environments, including exposure to water, heat, and cold. | Barcodes can be damaged or faded over time, making them difficult or impossible to scan. |
| Cost | RFID tags are typically more expensive than barcodes, both in terms of the cost of the tags themselves and the infrastructure required to read and manage them. | Barcodes are relatively inexpensive, requiring only a barcode scanner and a database to manage the information. |
| Applications | RFID tags are well-suited for high-volume, high-value items, such as designer clothing or luxury goods, where accurate tracking and theft prevention are critical. | Barcodes are more commonly used in low-cost, low-volume applications, such as basic clothing items or accessories. |
For companies with different needs, it is difficult for them to distinguish between winners and losers. In most cases, RFID can easily replace barcodes. Of course, barcodes may work better if they are attached to RFID clothing tags.
RFID can be used in various industries. It gives you better control over the garment production process. It allows you to save labor costs without compromising product quality. It also increases your profits. Of course, it has the following advantages.
Suitable Means of Inventory Control
As we all know, managing a garment factory is an exceptionally troublesome task. The number, as well as the type it needs to supervise, is enormous. And it is easy to have various problems in the process of supervision.
Using management technology can help companies solve the problem of supervision. RFID clothing tags can help you track specific items’ locations and inventory levels in real-time. It gives you a good idea of the number of goods, sales, etc. It helps operators to adjust their operational strategies better.
Counterfeit goods are everywhere, and it is the target of countless merchants. Your clothes often hit the market, and counterfeits come along with them. Consumers can’t tell the difference between real and fake. They are easily duped and faced with this situation without reasonable means. Both you and the consumer will suffer significant losses.
You can employ RFID tags to curb the threat of counterfeit goods. Companies can achieve this effect by embedding RFID tags in producing clothes. The RFID tag stores a unique ID number as well as product information. Merchants who receive the product can scan the tag with an RFID reader to verify the authenticity.
Low Operating Costs
RFID can effectively reduce a company’s need for human resources. It allows multiple products to be scanned simultaneously without requiring manual real-time monitoring. The inventory quantities obtained using it can be 100 percent correct. Only some situations, such as metals, and liquids, can interfere with its accuracy.
RFID tags are usually durable. Active and passive RFID tags can last 3-5 years. Passive RFID tags are inexpensive and are the preferred choice for most retail industries.
Companies can get reliable inventory information quickly with an RFID system. Generally, as long as the RFID system continues to operate, you can obtain the latest data in real time. The data scanned by RFID readers is uploaded to the asset management system via the Internet. Operators can quickly handle the situation by viewing the information in the database. You will get information about raw materials, finished goods inventory, and supply chain.
Tracking samples is an effective way to avoid prototype theft. Before a product sale, samples are sent by mail to significant manufacturers. Various incidents may happen during the shipping process. In the event of loss or theft, your company could suffer significant property damage. Therefore, you must reliably track your samples.
RFID technology is one of the ideal ways to achieve tracking of merchandise. Companies can track their merchandise by using RFID tags embedded in them. You can quickly get sample routing information. This information includes information on all places on the way from departure to arrival. It helps you to reduce sample loss and merchandise loss rate.
RFID clothing tags are not easily copied. The RFID chip inside it has an ID number. This ID number is unique and cannot be easily copied. This feature allows you to avoid data leakage and other recording errors.
It also has a large and sophisticated data encryption system. It is challenging to do if a hacker tries to steal your information. It effectively prevents unauthorized individuals from accessing the system data.
Most RFID clothing tags also have anti-theft features. By tagging clothing items with RFID chips, retailers can track the movement of items throughout their stores and identify potential security risks. They will close the communication channel immediately after the reader reads the data. Additionally, RFID-enabled security systems can help retailers identify and deter potential shoplifters. Individuals who enter the channel without permission will trigger the alarm system. The operator will receive the news as soon as possible.
High-cost budget. While there are many benefits to adopting RFID technology in the apparel industry, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its drawbacks. It would be best if you won these challenges to get the best results.
RFID systems require higher cost budgets than barcode systems. Of course, this budget depends on your future usage and compatibility with existing systems. Before deciding to upgrade or create a system, you need to evaluate it to ensure that you can get a significant return on your investment.
Compatibility with existing infrastructure. Usually, you may need to spend more cost and time if they are not compatible. However, since the technology is long-term, you will benefit significantly by ignoring this factor.
The interference factor. RFID systems transmit data via radio waves. So, it may be more susceptible to metal, liquid, and other gadget environmental interference. You need to check the existing operating environment to eliminate interference. The ideal work environment to realize the full potential of RFID.
The benefits of RFID technology in the apparel industry outweigh the drawbacks. As a result, many companies have adopted it.
Using RFID to Manage Clothes
Take Off; an Australian-based company, has launched an intelligent laundry basket. The laundry basket is developed using RFID technology. Each piece of clothing has an RFID tag stuck to it. The tag is made of silicone sleeve material, which is waterproof, anti-allergic, etc. It is a passive RFID tag. It is mainly used to identify and store washing program data.
RFID tags are used in conjunction with RFID readers. The laundry basket that collects dirty clothes is equipped with an RFID reader. It scans when you place the already dirty clothes into the laundry basket. The data information from the RFID tag is collected and uploaded to the corresponding application.
You can access information about your laundry rights in the app. Your smartphone can generally download the app. However, both need to be connected to the Internet simultaneously to communicate. You can see on your smartphone what clothes are in the laundry basket, how to wash them, etc.
You can manage the clothes uploaded via the application on your smartphone. It lets you find what you’re looking for without rummaging through dirty laundry.
Enhancing the Customer Experience
In 2012 Burberry implemented RFID technology in some of its flagship stores. It enhances staff control over clothing quality and inventory by using RFID tags.
It also enhances the experience of customers visiting the store to purchase items. When customers take the clothes they want to try on to the dressing room, the mirror in the dressing room will show a different picture. The RFID tag will activate the mirror and show a video about the clothes. The video mainly tells about this dress’s production and production process, as well as its style in the fashion show. It gives the customer a deeper understanding of the particular piece of clothing they want to buy.
The famous German department store “Galeria Kaufhof in Essen” also uses RFID technology in its fitting rooms. It uses a smart mirror in the fitting room to advise customers on what to buy. The intelligent mirrors are embedded with RFID readers. When a customer goes to the fitting room to try on a suit, the smart mirror automatically makes the appropriate purchase suggestions. These suggestions include matching accessories, suit fit, etc. It is also used in conjunction with the “smart rack.” It gives the customer a choice of styles and sizes.
Brand Segregation
Many department stores with many brands on the market use RFID clothing tags for brand segregation. RFID can effectively track the inventory and location of different brands and different series of clothes in the store. It has a meager chance of human error compared to bar codes. It is because there is very little dependence on people to monitor inventory levels and brand identification using it.
The cost of RFID clothing tags can vary depending on different factors, such as the type of tag, quantity ordered, and the manufacturer or supplier. The prices of RFID clothing tags can range from a few cents to several dollars per tag.
For instance, a basic adhesive RFID label tag can cost around 10 to 30 cents per tag, while a more advanced RFID woven label or hang tag can cost between 50 cents to a few dollars per tag. The cost per tag may reduce with a larger order quantity.
It’s important to note that the price of RFID tags may also vary depending on the technology used in the tag. Such as HF (high frequency) or UHF (ultra-high frequency), and any additional features or customization options. Additionally, some suppliers may offer bulk discounts or price breaks for larger orders.
If you’re planning to buy RFID clothing tags, conducting thorough research and comparing prices from various suppliers is recommended to find the most suitable option that fits your budget and requirements.
RFID technology has a significant role to play in the apparel industry. Companies can find a breakthrough point by considering updating their existing technology. RFID can be used to transform existing supply chains and related processes in retail. They can make companies more competitive.
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Why do My Clothes have RFID?
If you’re wondering why your clothes have RFID tags, there could be various reasons depending on where and how you purchased them. Here are some common reasons why your clothes may have RFID tags:
Inventory Management: Many retailers use RFID tags to track their inventory levels. This allows them to restock popular items and ensure they always have enough stock. If you bought your clothes from a large retailer, they might have used RFID tags to help manage their inventory.
Anti-Theft: Some clothing items have RFID tags programmed to trigger an alarm if they pass through a security gate without being properly deactivated. This can deter shoplifters from stealing items and help store employees quickly identify potential theft.
Authenticity: High-end clothing brands may use RFID tags to help customers verify the authenticity of their products. The tags may contain information about the origin and history of the garment. These can help customers confirm that they are buying a genuine product.
Tracking: In some cases, RFID tags may be used to track the movement of clothing items through the supply chain. This can help manufacturers and retailers keep tabs on where their products are at all times. This can be useful for managing logistics and ensuring the timely delivery of goods. -
While removing RFID tags from clothing is not generally recommended due to the potential for damaging the garment. There are a few methods that you could try if you need to remove a tag for a specific reason. However, it’s important to note that removing an RFID tag from a garment could be illegal and damage the garment.
If you still want to remove an RFID tag, here are a few methods you could try:
Cutting the tag off: You could try cutting the tag off with scissors or a knife, but this could potentially damage the garment or leave a noticeable hole where the tag was attached.
Using pliers: If the tag is attached to a seam or hem, you could grip and twist it until it comes off. However, this may also damage the garment or leave a noticeable mark where the tag was attached.
Freezing the garment: Some people have successfully removed RFID tags by freezing the garment for several hours or overnight. The extreme cold can make the tag brittle and easier to break off. However, this method may also damage the garment or leave a noticeable mark where the tag was attached.
If you’re concerned about an RFID tag on your garment, contacting the retailer or manufacturer is best to discuss your options, as removing it may not be legal or advisable.
