RFID Cage
How does RFID enable faster dock-to-stock processes?
- 9/9/25 | Asked by Aarna P.
How RFID Enables Faster Fulfillment
Dock-to-stock is one of the most critical metrics in distribution and warehouse operations. It measures how long it takes for products to move from the receiving dock to being available in inventory. The faster this process, the quicker businesses can fulfill orders, restock shelves, and keep operations running smoothly.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology accelerates dock-to-stock by automating data capture and eliminating manual bottlenecks. Here’s how:
RFID vs. Traditional Shipping & Receiving
While barcodes require workers to scan each item one at a time, RFID captures entire shipments in seconds. The difference is especially clear when you compare step-by-step processes side by side:
| Step | Traditional Barcode Process | RFID-Enabled Process |
|---|---|---|
| Receiving | Workers scan each carton or pallet individually (line of sight required). | RFID readers capture hundreds of tagged items at once with no line of sight. |
| Validation | Manual audits required to verify shipment accuracy. | System automatically compares reads against purchase orders in real time. |
| Put-Away | Workers rely on printed lists or manual updates. | WMS updates instantly; workers get guided put-away instructions. |
| Labor Needs | High labor hours, especially for large inbound volumes. | Significantly reduced labor due to automation. |
| Dock-to-Stock Time | Hours to days depending on shipment size. | Minutes to hours, often up to 90% faster. |
Beyond Dock-to-Stock: Additional Benefits of RFID
Faster receiving is only the beginning. Once RFID is in place, warehouses and fulfillment centers gain advantages across the board:
- Cycle Counting Made Easy: RFID enables near-instant cycle counts, replacing time-consuming manual audits.
- Improved Order Accuracy: With inventory updated in real time, picking errors and stockouts are dramatically reduced.
- Better Space Utilization: Accurate visibility into where goods are stored helps maximize warehouse space.
- Enhanced Customer Service: Fewer mis-shipments and delays mean happier customers and fewer costly returns.
Together, these benefits extend RFID’s value well beyond the dock, streamlining the entire supply chain.
💡 Tip: Every operation is different. To see how much time and money RFID could save in your dock-to-stock process, try our RFID ROI Calculator . In just a few clicks, you’ll get an estimate of your expected labor savings, accuracy improvements, and payback timeline.
Where to Start
For warehouses looking to speed up dock-to-stock, the best starting point is often a pilot project at the receiving dock. By tagging a subset of inbound shipments and using an RFID portal or tunnel, you can quickly measure improvements in accuracy, labor savings, and throughput. From there, it’s easy to scale RFID across put-away, picking, and shipping. Tools like EdgeMicro make it simple to launch a proof-of-concept with minimal investment and start seeing value fast.
Contact us to see how RFID can cut your dock-to-stock time by 90%