Junction 4 Pallets & Tracworx unveil real-time solution

Junction 4 Pallets and Tracworx have launched a new digital traceability solution designed to improve the management of reusable plastic containers.

The collaboration between Junction 4 Pallets, a UK-based provider of returnable packaging and logistics services, and Tracworx, an Irish digital tracking specialist, combines the core competencies of both firms. The solution combines Junction 4 Pallets' expertise in packaging design, logistics, asset maintenance, and repair with Tracworx's asset-tracking technology, which has previously been used for kegs, pallets, and other returnable transport items.

The new offering provides logistics operators with real-time information about their reusable plastic container (RPC) inventories. This is expected to help reduce incidents of theft and asset loss, speed up turnaround times, and improve asset utilisation across supply chains.

With the system in place, companies can reduce in-transit theft by maintaining detailed chain-of-custody records, which help safeguard assets and deter unauthorised use. Features include alerts for suspicious activities, such as unexpectedly long transit times.

Operationally, the real-time tracking and associated analytics can increase asset reuse rates by up to 20%, thus limiting the need to invest in additional containers. Assets can be tracked throughout their lifecycle, and users can make better-informed operational decisions without the administrative burden of manual inventory checks.

The approach also supports sustainability initiatives. By tracking asset lifecycle data, operators are notified when repairs or maintenance are required, helping to extend the usable life of reusable plastic containers, reduce waste, and contribute to circular economy strategies.

The technical backbone of the solution is a mix of robust digital tracking tags, a network of handheld and fixed scanners, and an intuitive, cloud-based platform from Tracworx. The solution is designed to be scalable and easily integrated, with compatibility for existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) and warehouse management systems via open APIs. Companies also have the option to integrate further IoT sensors to enhance tracking and data insight capabilities.

Steve Raybould, Reverse Logistics Lead at Junction 4 Pallets, highlighted the results made possible by the combined solution. "Combining Junction 4's industry-leading experience in reusable packaging solutions and logistics management with Tracworx's powerful digital tracking expertise delivers a transformative solution. Customers now benefit from optimised asset usage, increased security, and substantial sustainability improvements."

Chris Kelly, CEO of Tracworx, commented on the ongoing development of Tracworx's services. "Our proven success managing digital tracking solutions for kegs and pallets is now scaling into RPC management. By collaborating with Junction 4, we provide a solution that significantly reduces asset loss, enhances operational efficiencies, and promotes sustainability in a straightforward, scalable way."

Target users of the new system include logistics operators, third-party logistics companies, and pallet-pooling providers that oversee large fleets of returnable transport items. The food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and FMCG sectors are also identified as beneficiaries, particularly those aiming for improved asset management and lower operational costs.

The partnership also intends to support businesses pursuing sustainable operations by providing the tools to implement and monitor circular economy practices within their supply chains.