Logistics transformation for secure shipping – How DataMatrix codes accelerate the handling of general cargo – Faster and more precise – Image: Xpert.Digital
Focus on security and speed: DataMatrix codes are changing logistics
DataMatrix codes in general cargo handling: Transformation for speed and security in logistics
In modern logistics, DataMatrix codes are increasingly being used to revolutionize less-than-truckload (LTL) handling processes. This technology not only enables a drastic acceleration of processes but also increases the security and traceability of shipments through precise and detailed information. The use of digital twins in conjunction with sophisticated scanning systems marks a turning point in the logistics industry.
Related to this:
Function and advantages of DataMatrix codes
DataMatrix codes belong to the family of two-dimensional barcodes and have become particularly established in industrial production and increasingly in logistics. Unlike conventional one-dimensional barcodes, these 2D codes can store significantly more information in a small space. While classic barcodes such as the EAN barcode can only encode a product identifier, DataMatrix codes allow for the storage of additional information such as serial numbers, country of origin, expiration dates, and more.
The technical characteristics of these codes offer crucial advantages. DataMatrix codes feature sophisticated error correction based on the Reed-Solomon algorithm, enabling complete code readability even with up to 50% damage. This error tolerance was originally developed for NASA space projects and ensures high reliability under a wide range of conditions. International standardization by ISO/IEC 16022 guarantees standardization and broad applicability.
Another key advantage is their small size. DataMatrix codes can be displayed very small and still scanned reliably, which is beneficial for both small products and large quantities. Their fast machine readability prevents delays in logistics and significantly increases process efficiency.
Digital twin in general cargo handling
A prime example of the advanced use of DataMatrix codes in general cargo handling is the @ILO project by logistics provider Dachser in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML). At the transshipment warehouses in Unterschleißheim near Munich and Öhringen near Heilbronn, a fully automated and real-time digital twin of all packages, assets, and processes is generated.
Each package bears a 9.5 x 9.5 centimeter Data Matrix code on its top. Several hundred optical scanning units in the ceiling area of the halls capture the entire floor and continuously provide data for the digital twin of the transshipment warehouse. @ILO stands for “Advanced Indoor Localization and Operations” and describes the digital twin that will, in the future, provide fully automatically generated, real-time data for every palletized shipment in the European Dachser transport network.
At the @ILO terminals, packages are automatically identified and recorded in the transport management system upon entering, during transit, and upon leaving the transshipment warehouse. Manual barcode scanning at goods receipt and dispatch is no longer necessary. This significantly reduces the workload for employees and considerably speeds up processes.
Speed and efficiency through automation
The implementation of DataMatrix codes in general cargo handling leads to a significant acceleration of processes. Automated data capture eliminates time-consuming manual scanning, resulting in considerable time savings, especially when several thousand pallets pass through a typical general cargo handling warehouse daily.
The 2D matrix code enables much faster and more accurate data capture compared to conventional barcodes or QR codes. Thanks to its denser information encoding, more data points can be stored in a single code, significantly reducing capture time. This allows warehouse staff to process orders faster and minimize data entry bottlenecks.
The system significantly accelerates the inbound and outbound processes, as packages are scanned without manual intervention. This leads to higher throughput and enables more efficient operation of the warehouse overall.
Increased safety and error reduction
In addition to increased speed, the use of DataMatrix codes also offers enhanced security in general cargo handling. Automated data capture minimizes human error. Warehouse employees no longer need to manually enter long number combinations; instead, the data is scanned directly from the code. This drastically reduces the risk of errors, leading to increased accuracy and fewer returns and complaints.
The meter-accurate, real-time tracking of all pallets in the often football-field-sized transshipment warehouses also increases the transparency and security of goods handling. The storage locations of shipments and the position of forklifts can be visualized in real time and displayed on websites, apps, or mobile displays, along with guidance information for internal transport.
Related to this:
Tailored and detailed information
A key advantage of DataMatrix codes lies in their ability to store and transmit precise and detailed information. DataMatrix codes transmit the same shipment information as the currently used NVE barcodes, but offer space for additional data.
2D matrix codes offer the possibility of storing a wealth of information in a small area. In addition to conventional order details such as article number, quantity, and delivery address, additional information like serial numbers, country of origin, expiration dates, and more can be accommodated in a single code. This enables improved traceability and quality control in the warehouse.
AI-based algorithms interpret the data captured every second by optical scanning units to automatically identify, locate, and, in the future, measure all packages. This real-time data provides up-to-date information on the location of each package, benefiting employees, drivers, and staff in dispatch and customer service.
Future prospects and industry-wide development
The @ILO project by Dachser and Fraunhofer IML is part of a larger trend in the logistics industry towards digitized and automated processes. If a positive decision is made in principle regarding the rollout, Dachser plans to gradually implement the technology in all of its major transshipment facilities in Europe.
Across all industries, a migration from one-dimensional to two-dimensional codes is underway. With the increasing information needs of customers and business partners along the supply chain, and the digitization of many processes, the demands on data carriers are rising. One-dimensional barcodes like the EAN barcode are reaching their limits, as they can only contain a very limited amount of information. The solution lies in two-dimensional barcodes such as the GS1 DataMatrix or the GS1 Digital Link in QR codes or DataMatrix formats.
DataMatrix codes: The key to more efficient logistics processes
The use of DataMatrix codes in general cargo handling marks a significant advancement in the logistics industry. By combining sophisticated scanning systems with these information-rich 2D codes, digital twins are created, enabling a new level of transparency, speed, and security in logistics processes.
The advantages are numerous: automated processes reduce manual labor and error rates, accelerated inbound and outbound processes increase efficiency, and the detailed information enables precise tracking and control of all packages. With increasing digitalization and the growing need for information along the supply chain, DataMatrix codes and similar technologies are becoming indispensable tools for forward-thinking logistics companies.
Related to this:
We are here for you - Consulting - Planning - Implementation - Project Management
☑️ Our business language is English or German
☑️ NEW: Correspondence in your native language!
Konrad Wolfenstein
I and my team are happy to be available to you as your personal advisor.
You can contact me by filling out the contact form here simply call me at +49 7348 4088 965. My email address is wolfenstein@xpert.digital:or
I'm looking forward to our joint project.
