Stock Recording with RFID: Definition, Function, Process, and Implementation
- Marketing Tudi
- Oct 17
- 3 min read
Stock recording, Stocktaking, or stock checking, is a vital part of inventory management. This activity ensures consistency between system data and the physical quantity of goods stored in the warehouse. In conventional practice, stocktaking is done manually or with the aid of a barcode scanner, but now technology RFID presenting a new approach that is much faster and more accurate.
Pengertian Stock Recording
In general, stock recording is the activity of matching administrative records or system data with the physical condition of goods in the field. The goal is to ensure that recorded stock quantities accurately reflect reality and to detect discrepancies, loss, or damage to goods.
This process is typically performed periodically, whether daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on business needs. In the context of warehouse management, stocktaking results form the basis for important decisions such as reordering, removing damaged goods, and adjusting financial reports.
Fungsi Stock Recording
Stock taking has several main functions in business operations:
1. Ensure Inventory Data Accuracy
This process helps maintain consistency between the quantity of goods in the system and the actual conditions in the warehouse.
2. Detecting Differences and Loss of Goods
By routinely conducting stocktaking, companies can immediately find out if there is a reduction or loss of stock.
3. Increase Stock Management Efficiency
The stocktaking results are used to adjust the number of orders and avoid overstock and stockout.
4. Supports Accurate Financial Reports
The value of inventory assets in financial statements is highly dependent on the results of accurate stocktaking.
Stocktaking Process Using RFID
In an RFID-based system, each item is assigned a tag containing unique data such as product codes and storage locations. During the stocktaking process, the RFID reader emits radio waves to read hundreds of tags simultaneously without needing to scan each one individually.
The reading data is then automatically sent to the inventory system, where stock is updated in real time. This method makes the inventory audit process faster, more accurate, and more efficient than manual or automated methods using barcode scanner.
Advantages of Stock Taking Using RFID
RFID offers an automated method of working without direct contact with the object. This is its main advantage over conventional methods.
1. Mass and Fast Reading
Hundreds of RFID tags can be read in seconds without having to scan them individually like barcodes. This significantly reduces inventory audit time.
2. Higher Accuracy
RFID tags do not require line of sight (line of sight), so that items that are stacked or in packaging can still be detected.
3. Real-Time Data Updates
RFID reading data is directly synchronized to the WMS or ERP system, providing always-up-to-date stock visibility.
4. Minimal Operational Disruption
The stocktaking process can be carried out without stopping all warehouse activities, because the system can read tags automatically when goods move.
Disadvantages of Stocktaking Using RFID
Despite offering high efficiency, RFID implementation still has several challenges that need to be considered:
1. Initial Implementation Costs
Investments in RFID readers, antennas, and tags tend to be higher than those in barcode systems. However, these costs are usually offset by long-term efficiency gains.
2. Signal Interference
RFID tags can experience reading interference if they are near metal or liquids, so proper tag design and selection are necessary.
3. System Integration
For the system to work optimally, RFID needs to be integrated with a WMS or ERP platform so that stock data can be automatically updated.
ImplementationRFID for Stocktaking in Various Industries
RFID technology is now widely used to speed up and streamline the stocktaking process in various sectors:
1. Retail
Helps check stock in stores and warehouses quickly, speeds up replenishment, and prevents stockouts on shelves.
2. Logistics & Warehousing
Used for mass stock audits without stopping daily operational processes.
3. Manufacturing
Improve the accuracy of tracking raw materials and finished products throughout the production chain.
4. Health (Healthcare)
Ensuring that drug and medical equipment stocks are always monitored accurately, thereby reducing the risk of shortages or distribution errors.
Conclusion
Stocktaking plays a crucial role in maintaining data accuracy and inventory availability in the warehouse. Through this process, companies can ensure inventory always reflects actual conditions and minimize potential losses due to recording errors.
With the support of RFID technology, the stocktaking process can now be carried out more quickly, accurately, and efficiently thanks to the ability to read multiple tags simultaneously in real-time.
As an end-to-end RFID solutions provider, TUDI ready to help you implement an integrated and scalable RFID-based stock opname system. Consult your business needs with TUDI's team of experts to find the best RFID solution that increases company efficiency and productivity.
