Review of auto-ID technology use in warehouse management

Abstract

Warehouses play a significant role in the seamless distribution, integration, and storage of items as well as in supply chain operations. Automated identification (auto-ID) technologies that include barcode and RFID provide class- or item-level visibility to facilitate effective and efficient decisions in their respective environments. A warehouse environment benefits from auto-ID through improved cost savings, operational efficiency, and opportunities for higher revenues. It is therefore not surprising that both researchers and practitioners have considered the use of auto-ID in warehouses. We take stock of related literature to determine the state-of-the-art on auto-ID use in warehouse management, with specific focus on RFID, and identify potential directions of further research. Based on our review, we develop a conceptual framework that incorporates the primary factors that guide the decision to adopt auto-ID in warehouse management.