DB Schenker Uses High-Tech Stickers for Shipment Tracking

Tracking technology as a sticker: As the first logistics provider from Europe, DB Schenker offers global tracking of freight shipments with the new tracking adhesive label from high-tech developer Sensos. The disposable label can be attached to containers, pallets, or individual boxes, allowing for more accurate tracking of individual shipments during land, sea, and air transport.

(Essen) David Pollender, Product Owner Business Development IoT at DB Schenker: “Tracking technology now fits into a millimeter-thin sticker. The label is so small and lightweight that it can be used for shipments of any size. In conjunction with DB Schenker’s IoT solution connect2track, the label provides optimal visibility of the cargo. This significantly improves our existing offering for our customers and makes shipment tracking even more flexible and secure.”

Aviv Casto, CEO of Sensos: “We are committed to transforming the world of supply chains by providing unlimited transparency at the package level. Our solution enables data-driven execution and optimizes logistics for various use cases. We are grateful to have had DB Schenker as a development partner from the very beginning to achieve the market readiness of our product.”

The Sensos label transmits real-time data on location and temperature via mobile networks. If the shipment is opened during transport, the customer is alerted. The design of the sticker enhances security for valuable shipments, as it is discreetly designed and the tracking remains undetected.

The disposable label is equipped with a lithium-free battery, which emits significantly less CO2 during production than conventional batteries. Despite its small size, it achieves runtimes of up to six months. Additionally, due to its lightweight, the label consumes less energy during transport, and returns are no longer necessary.

DB Schenker was one of the first development partners of Sensos, a corporate company of Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation. As part of this process, the global logistics provider co-defined requirements for the tracking label and tested prototypes during a trial phase in land and air freight.

DB Schenker’s Internet-of-Things platform connect2track enables customers to monitor the location and condition (e.g., temperature and humidity) of their shipments. It provides a continuously calculated estimated arrival time based on real-time data, increased security through opening alerts, and efficiency gains through supply chain optimization.

Photo: © Sensos & DB Schenker