Title: A simple RFID cost model for the container shipping industry

Authors: Frank-Christian Harder; Stefan Voß

Addresses: IWI – Institute of Information Systems, University Hamburg, Von-Melle-Park 5, 20146 Hamburg, Germany. ' IWI – Institute of Information Systems, University Hamburg, Von-Melle-Park 5, 20146 Hamburg, Germany

Abstract: Radio frequency identification (RFID) refers to the use of a transponder or tag affiliated with an object for the purpose of identification and tracking using radio waves. While conceptual ideas and potential applications are widespread, its use within maritime shipping still needs to be advanced. That is, the shipping industry still seems to be hesitant regarding RFID investment decisions. This paper proposes a simple cost model, which is applicable for RFID investment decisions. We show that under reasonable assumptions RFID may provide moderately quick ROI and we discuss relevant factors to be used in business scenarios. In particular, the construction and the origin of these factors are explained, thus allowing an understanding that RFID usage may have real business impact in maritime shipping.

Keywords: radio frequency identification; RFID applications; RFID implementation; cost modelling; container shipping; maritime shipping; decision support; RFID investment; business impact; containers.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2012.046194

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2012 Vol.4 No.2, pp.172 - 181

Published online: 14 Aug 2014 *

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