Summary: | Kartongbruket AB has a supplier of bale pulp which is transitioning to an RFID marking of its bales. Due to this, new perspectives are requested on an RFID implementation regarding the handling of bales. This study focuses on the inbound logistics process and the pulp bale handling process. Furthermore, traceability-related problems are noted due to the fact that the current scanning methodology does not work with sufficient precision. The coexistence between the current barcode reading system and the RFID reading system is also something that is identified as topic which needs to be studied. This study’s choice of the process industry and the cardboard industry is based on a theoretical gap regarding the above-mentioned concepts and problems in this specific industry. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to be helpful to Kartongbruket AB in their upcoming RFID implementation, and to fill the identified theoretical gaps. Method: This is a case study at Kartongbruket AB. Empirics have been collected through semi-structured interviews with relevant internal actors, where the respondents have been identified using a snowball selection method. The study is of a qualitative nature and the theoretical frame of reference has been created through a literature study. Conclusion: This study concludes that RFID can be used in the inbound logistics process to make stock balances more reliable in several potential ways. In addition to this, it can be concluded that an RFID-based system can lead to a centralized traceability system in the pulpbale handling process where internal actors can gain a greater knowledge base in customer complaints cases. The study's presented implementation model may be used as a support for the upcoming RFID implementation. The study also establishes that the merging model is the most suitable coexistence model for Kartongbruket AB when RFID and barcodes are to be run together in the pulp bale handling process.
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