Jul 21, 2022

It is not uncommon for multiple businesses to carry the same product, which is why customer loyalty is now founded on more than just product availability and price. Additional factors such as personalization and order tracking have also become defining qualities, yet one of the most important gamechangers in online-shopping has been seamless returns. An estimated 92% of customers stated they will return to a business offering seamless returns, while 58% say they expect a no-questions-asked return policy. As a result, a transparent reverse logistics system is now a centerpiece in securing customer loyalty.

Fortunately, modernized visibility solutions are now focusing on tracking incoming products from multiple avenues, whether from different storefronts, manufacturers, or returns. As the supply chain continues to evolve more dynamically, competitive visibility solutions prioritize mobility, communication, and simplicity in order to welcome changes and accelerate order processing with minimal errors.

Bringing it all together with Heartland and Zebra

Developing intelligent visibility solutions for years, Heartland continues to partner with Zebra to maximize mobility, simplify communication, and protect workflow simplicity to empower positive customer experiences. This is accomplished by…

1. Streamlining inventory management and picking through one RFID system – As inventory comes into your facility, it must be quickly identified and stored to prevent misplacements and eventual product shrinkage. Automated data capture with tools such as RFID scanners and readers provide fast real-time scanning since readers can capture over 40 barcodes at once. Furthermore, captured data can be used to update inventory counts and status in real-time, allowing workers to quickly find what they need from anywhere in the facility.
   
2. Implementing effective communication channels – Whether in a storefront or in a distribution center, communication systems like Zebra’s Workforce Connect unifies workers with real-time alerts and push-to-talk features deployed directly from their current Zebra handhelds. Furthermore, Heartland’s AlwaysConnected teams strengthen communication channels by minimizing network disruptions, so teams can be readily notified of delays, new returns, or high-priority orders, all via the same device assisting with picking routes.
   
3. Facilitating technology adoption through user-friendly platforms – Pencil-and-paper systems still dominate a vast majority of business operations, yet they also enable costly errors that can diminish customer satisfaction. On the other hand, Android’s enterprise-ready operating system decreases learning curves since it combines familiarity with business performance. Likewise, RFID readers and supporting mobile devices should leverage future-forward features such as glove-friendly touchscreens, push-to-talk, user-friendly operating systems, and even accessible tech support for seamless troubleshooting and updates.

Reliable mobility solutions effectively provide your reverse logistics system with real-time visibility to accurately track inventory.  Contact our teams to explore more ways to automate visibility without disrupting workflows with Heartland.