Logistics giant FedEx has launched a lightweight sensor-based device that improves precision tracking and is ready for Covid-19 vaccine distribution.

The enhanced location visibility provided by SenseAware ID should create opportunities for FedEx customers to reimagine their supply chain through real-time updates on a package’s location within the FedEx Express network.

It can improve the safety, security and timeliness of deliveries, key attributes for packages that contain critical contents such as life-saving pharmaceuticals and emergency medical supplies.

The detailed location data provided is a critical differentiator for healthcare industry users, and FedEx expects to use this technology with anticipated Covid-19 vaccine shipments. The rollout is well-timed as FedEx continues to move life-saving pharmaceuticals and medical supplies for healthcare customers throughout the USA.

“Package tracking and visibility are more important now than ever, as businesses have become increasingly reliant on timely deliveries,” said Robert Carter, executive vice president at FedEx. “Created by our innovation teams at FedEx, SenseAware ID was designed to give our customers the precise level of tracking they’ve been looking for, enabling them to optimise their supply chains and make any necessary adjustments during the journey of their shipments.”

FedEx has long been a pioneer in sensor-based logistics, providing tracking of urgent and high value shipments for over a decade through its proprietary SenseAware portfolio. SenseAware ID is the latest innovation in this sensor technology, designed to make sensor-based logistics more accessible.

It uses a lightweight, compact sensor that transmits precise package location data every two seconds via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to wifi access points or established gateway devices throughout the FedEx Express network. Packages equipped with the sensor are tracked hundreds of times versus dozens of times with traditional package scanning protocols. This provides real-time data about the location of the shipment.

As part of the initial roll-out, sensors are being applied to First Overnight shipments within the US domestic FedEx Express network. An initial round of users in the healthcare, aerospace and retail industries will receive access to the enhanced data in November.

FedEx expects to expand access to this precision location data to additional customers throughout the first half of 2021. It will eventually be made available for a broad range of premium FedEx Express services.

The enhanced package visibility data provided should give healthcare users the opportunity to monitor closely and proactively protect shipments using additional FedEx healthcare services, including cold-chain storage, thermal blankets and temperature controlled containers. It is expected to play a critical role in the distribution of Covid-19 vaccines using the FedEx First Overnight service, helping ensure these sensitive shipments are delivered quickly and safely.