Holographic scanners can read codes from almost any orientation and pen-based portable scanners allow workers to read bar codes anywhere. These technological advances have greatly increased distribution efficiency and data integrity. However, they continue to require human intervention, usually at several points along the distribution route. RFID uses small tags, which are implanted in packages or containers. Passive systems have limited range, but can be useful in close quarters.
Active systems have greater range, but cost more because of the batteries.
The range depends on the size of the battery. Once information from RFID tags is read, it is organized and stored in users computers. We found no firms using it to track and trace container equipment, but it seems to offer some potential for intermodal applications. Global Positioning Systems seem to offer the ideal tracking and tracing systems for containers and chassis. The systems are relatively inexpensive to implement at least the software and provide instant location information.