RFID vs Barcode: Comparison, Advantages & Disadvantages

800-900 MHz and higher. UHF RFID is typically used in large warehouses and distribution centers that need to track and identify multiple items at once.

Systems that use UHF RFID are not as mature as those used by LF and HF RFID frequencies. A standardized global bandwidth has not yet been determined, and the frequency range varies by country. The U.S. currently uses a higher UHF bandwidth than Europe.

Common applications for UHF RFID include shipping and receiving, end-to-end manufacturing, and industrial asset management. Unlike LF or HF, UHF offers a much longer read range of up to 30 feet in the right conditions. UHF wavelengths also allow data to be transferred more quickly, which means large volumes of product can be moved faster.

When receiving pallets or large cases, UHF RFID technology can speed up the process. A designated dock door can be equipped with RFID readers that are tuned to the same bandwidth as the tags on the items being received. With proper implementation to minimize interference, it can provide an accurate, efficient way to move items through the supply chain.

In these examples, RFID has clear advantages over barcodes when it comes to durability and longevity, security and efficiency. But this technology has disadvantages, too, and there are situations where barcoding is far more practical.

Learn more about RFID trends and future applications.