FedEx has announced the launch of SenseAware ID, a lightweight sensor-based logistics device that delivers a new level of precision tracking.
As part of the preliminary roll-out, SenseAware ID sensors are being applied to First Overnight shipments in the US domestic FedEx Express network. SenseAware ID will enhance the safety, protection and timeliness of deliveries – key attributes for packages that comprise crucial contents together with life-saving pharmaceutical drugs and emergency clinical supplies.
The enhanced location visibility furnished by this technology will create possibilities for FedEx clients to redefine their supply chain via real-time updates on a package’s location within the FedEx Express network.
“Package tracking and visibility are more important now than ever, as businesses have become increasingly reliant on timely deliveries,” said Robert B Carter, Executive Vice President And Chief Information Officer, FedEx Corporation. “Created by our innovation teams at FedEx, SenseAware ID was designed to give our customers the precise level of tracking they’ve been looking for, enabling them to optimise their supply chains and make any necessary adjustments during the journey of their shipments.”
SenseAware ID uses a lightweight, compact sensor that transmits precise package location data every two seconds via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to WiFi access points or established gateway devices throughout the FedEx Express network. Packages equipped with the SenseAware ID sensor are tracked hundreds of times versus dozens of times with traditional package scanning protocols, which provides an unprecedented amount of real-time data about the location of the shipment.
The exact location statistics supplied through SenseAware ID is a vital differentiator for healthcare enterprise clients, and FedEx expects to apply this new technology with the much anticipated COVID-19 vaccine shipments.
The enhanced package visibility statistics provided by SenseAware ID will give FedEx healthcare customers the possibility to closely monitor and proactively protect shipments using additional FedEx healthcare services, including cold-chain storage, thermal blankets and temperature controlled containers while using the FedEx First Overnight service, ensuring the critical and timebound shipments are delivered quickly and safely.
A preliminary round of clients in healthcare, aerospace and retail industries will obtain access to the enhanced statistics in November 2020. FedEx expects to extend the access to this precision location data to additional customers throughout the first half of 2021.
