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RFID in the textile industry – Everything you need to know

RFID – Increasing efficiency and transparency in the fashion industry

The fashion industry faces the challenge of continuously optimizing its logistics and sales processes. One technology that has proven to be particularly efficient in this regard is RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification). RFID enables the contactless and automated recording of inventories in real time, which leads to a significant increase in efficiency in the supply chain.

The advantages of RFID

  • Optimized inventory control
    RFID offers precise inventory management by tagging all items and recording them in real time. This enables more precise inventory tracking, the avoidance of overstocks or shortages and the optimization of reorders.
  • Increased efficiency in logistics
    While conventional barcodes have to be scanned individually, RFID scanners can scan hundreds of items simultaneously. This speeds up incoming goods, stock transfer and shipping processes considerably.
  • Protection against shrinkage and counterfeiting
    RFID technology can effectively detect unauthorized withdrawals in the warehouse or theft in retail stores. The technology also enables seamless traceability, which ensures the authenticity of products.
  • Seamless integration into omnichannel strategies
    RFID facilitates the networking of online and offline channels. Real-time inventory data makes it possible to provide customers with precise information on the availability of an item in stores or warehouses at any time.
  • Automated processes in the store
    Intelligent fitting rooms with RFID automatically recognize items and can suggest alternative sizes or colors. Self-checkout systems can also be easily implemented using RFID, avoiding long queues.

What really matters when it comes to chips, memory and range

How is an RFID tag constructed?

  1. Adhesive: The adhesive secures the tag to an object, depending on the application with specific requirements for the adhesive.
  2. Carrier material: The thin substrate holds the antenna and the chip together.
  3. Antenna: The antenna transmits and receives data and is usually made of conductive material such as copper or aluminum.
  4. Microchip: The microchip (or integrated circuit/IC) stores the data and processes the communication with the reader. It is attached to the antenna.
  5. Cover laminate: A layer of paper or plastic that ensures printability, protection against moisture and UV radiation and gives the tag rigidity.
  6. Encapsulation: A protective layer of materials such as epoxy or resins that protects the inlay from environmental influences such as dust and moisture.

Frequency ranges

RFID tags use different frequency ranges that influence the range and speed of communication. The most important frequency ranges are

  • Low frequency (LF) Frequency 125 kHz to 134.2 kHz I Range: a few centimetres to 1 meter I Application: animal identification, access control
  • High frequency (HF) frequency 13.56 MHz I Range: up to 1 meter I Application: contactless payment cards, smart cards, libraries
  • Ultra-high frequency (UHF) frequency 860 MHz to 960 MHz I Range: up to 12 meters or more I Application: warehouse management, logistics, supply chains
  • Microwave frequency (MW) Frequency 2.45 GHz or 5.8 GHz I Range : up to 100 meters I Use: special applications such as vehicle tracking

Each frequency range has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the application that requires it (e.g. range or data rate).

Types of memory in RFID tags

Class 1 Gen 2 RFID UHF tags have a standardized and precise memory structure. A Gen2 RFID tag mainly has the following memory types:

  • EPC memory: Contains a unique ID (electronic product code) This area is usually read-only or write-protected
  • TID memory: Saves a fixed serial number of the tag that cannot be changed. It is read-only
  • User memory: Additional, modifiable data can be saved here, such as information on a product or status. This area is readable and writable.
  • Kill command memory: Enables the tag to be deactivated permanently (kill command). This area can only be written to once.
  • Access control memory: Protects certain memory areas with a password to control access.

These storage types enable the flexible use and security of the Gen2 tag in various applications.

RFID standards

RFID standards exist to ensure that RFID tags and readers can communicate with each other worldwide. They ensure compatibility, interoperability and security. Without standards, different devices and systems would not be able to work together, which would limit the use of RFID technology. Uniform standards also ensure the reliability and efficiency of RFID systems, which is important in many areas such as logistics, retail and healthcare.

There are many RFID standards that differ in their frequency, range and applications. The most important and widely used standards are ISO/IEC 14443 (HF), ISO/IEC 15693 (HF), ISO/IEC 18000 (UHF) and the EPCglobal Gen2 standard for UHF RFID. Each standard is designed for specific requirements and areas of application, from logistics to animal identification and contactless payments.

Labels for RFID technology

The picture shows a hangtag from Bornemann labels with an integrated RFID layer.
The picture shows a woven label from Bornemann with an RFID layer applied to the back. The right side of the label is folded over so that the RFID layer can be seen.
The picture shows a hangtag from Bornemann-Etiketten with an RFID sticker applied to it.
The picture shows a woven label from Bornemann with an integrated RFID chip

What is the difference between RFID and NFC?

The main difference between RFID and NFC lies in the range, the areas of application and the technology. NFC is a special form of RFID technology that was developed for close range.

Checklist: RFID implementation in your company

The use of RFID technology in a company is a complex matter. Precise planning in advance is essential to ensure that the process runs smoothly and cost-effectively. The following points should definitely be included in your planning:

✅ Define the area of application: Which process would you like to optimize through the use of RFID technology? Production, warehouse, stores or the entire supply chain? What is the exact operating environment? This includes aspects such as temperature, humidity, etc.
✅ Clarify technical requirements: Range, reading accuracy and material requirements. Which frequency band is suitable for your application? What memory capacity does your chip need? Where will the RFID tag or inlay be attached? What is the product made of? Will the product be exposed to extreme temperatures, mechanical stress, etc.?
✅ Check the infrastructure: How is the RFID tag read? Are RFID readers and interfaces available or required? What about security aspects? Is there a need for encryption or password protection?
✅ Ensure integration into existing systems: ERP, merchandise management, e-commerce
✅ Calculate budget and ROI: Cost-effectiveness and long-term savings potential. What is your budget, what are the costs for hardware and software, what quantities of labels are required?
✅ Ensure future-proofing: scalability for expansion and new markets

With this checklist, companies create the basis for successful RFID integration and maximize the efficiency of their processes.

RFID as a competitive advantage in the fashion industry

RFID technology offers fashion companies a powerful solution to optimize processes, reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction. Companies that rely on this technology benefit from precise inventory management, reduced stock-outs and an improved shopping experience. In the face of increasing competition and rising customer expectations, RFID is increasingly becoming the standard in the industry. Early implementation can therefore offer a decisive competitive advantage.

Are there any work processes in your company that can be made more efficient through the use of RFID? We will be happy to provide you with comprehensive advice on the various options! Simply contact our expert Dirk Poggemeier and arrange a non-binding initial consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!