RFID Tag
An RFID tag is a tag equipped with an IC chip and an antenna that can read and write unique information without contact using radio waves, and is used for product identification, inventory management, and logistics tracking.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
RFID is an automatic identification technology that uses radio waves. An RFID tag contains an IC chip that stores identification information and an antenna used to communicate with a reader. Because it can identify individual items, it is used for information management of apparel products, such as inventory, shipping and receiving, and sales.
Barcodes are basically read one by one with the printed side facing the reader. By contrast, RFID tags can be read in batches without contact if the method and operating conditions are suitable. However, the reading distance and accuracy vary depending on the tag, reader, and installation environment.
Position in Product Development
Introducing RFID tags is not completed just by deciding on accessories; it is an effort that connects planning, production control, sewing, inspection, logistics, and sales operations. In the early stage when product specifications are finalized, organize the intended use, the data administrator, the reading location, and whether or not removal is required.
In apparel, there are single-use types attached to hang tags, as well as methods of integrating them near woven labels or care labels. Sewn-in types may allow information to be used even after purchase, but skin feel, wash durability, and sewing position need to be considered together with the product design.
- Decide the identification unit at the planning stage. Clarify whether it is by color and size or a unique number for each item.
- List the tag shape, attachment position, front and back, sewing method, written data, and inspection method in the specification sheet.
- Before mass production, perform reading tests on the actual product, packed condition, and carton-packed condition for logistics.
Implementation Process and Practical Points
First, clarify the implementation purpose, such as improving inventory counting efficiency, matching inbound and outbound shipments, understanding store inventory, and managing returned items. The required reading distance, identification number design, tag shape, reader placement, and system integration differ depending on the purpose.
When ordering tags, confirm the scope of responsibility not only for the tag itself but also for data numbering, writing, verification, and on-site attachment or sewing. For order quantities, include spares for mass production and measures for writing defects or attachment defects, and establish an operation that prevents duplicate management numbers.
- Tag application and usage period
- Numbering system for products, colors, sizes, and individual items
- Tag attachment position and whether removal is possible
- Reading devices, packaging format, and the effects of metal accessories or moisture
- How data is transferred in production, logistics, and sales
Ordering and Quality Considerations
With RFID tags, communication conditions may change due to metal accessories, liquids, moisture-containing materials, overlap between tags, bending, or pressure. It is important to verify missed reads and unintended duplicate reads under conditions that reproduce the actual product, folding method, bagging, and carton packing.
For sewn-in types, confirm durability against washing, drying, dry cleaning, friction, and bending in line with the intended care instructions. For hang tag types, add to inspection items whether the tag is damaged, the attachment position is shifted, writing is missing at shipment, or it needs to be disabled or removed at the time of sale.
An RFID tag is a medium for recording information and does not replace the product's own care labeling or washing instructions. When it is handled together with personal information or purchase information, confirm the collected information, purpose of use, access permissions, and storage method with the relevant departments.
Differences from Similar Terms
An IC tag is a general term for tags that use an IC chip, and it is sometimes used with almost the same meaning as RFID tag. Strictly speaking, IC tag may also include contact-based types, so specifying the communication method and application in purchase orders and specifications helps prevent misunderstandings.
An NFC tag is one type of tag that uses the Near Field Communication standard. It is often intended for reading with smartphones, whereas RFID is a broader concept that includes different frequency bands and operating methods depending on the application. A two-dimensional code, on the other hand, is a display read as an image, and its mechanism differs from an RFID tag, which communicates by radio waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should an RFID tag be decided in the product specifications?
Because it affects inventory management and logistics operations, it is important to consider it from the stage of firming up planning and production plans, rather than just before ordering accessories. Decide the identification number, attachment position, writing responsibility, inspection method, and linkage with reading devices early, and test with the actual product before mass production.
Can RFID tags be used for washable garments?
Even with tags marketed as wash-resistant, durability varies depending on the garment material, attachment method, and washing or drying conditions. It is necessary to consider bending, friction, heat, detergent, and other factors at the sewn-in position, and to carry out washing tests and reading checks that match the care conditions of the product being adopted.
Can RFID tags and barcodes be used together?
Yes, they can be used together. RFID may be used for contactless batch reading, while barcodes may be used for visual confirmation and connection to existing operations. However, it is important to unify the numbering rules and the person responsible for data updates so that both codes correctly reference the same product information.
