AIDC Solutions Are Redefining Distribution Center Efficiency—and How You Can Benefit
Distribution centers (DCs) are the foundation of modern retail fulfillment. In a landscape defined by speed, precision, and customer expectations, DCs largely shape how quickly and accurately inventory flows across the entire retail network. As fulfillment complexity grows, there is no room for bottlenecks, blind spots, or outdated systems.
Today’s DCs must do more than move goods—they must be dynamic hubs that can respond instantly to constant change. From shifting order volumes and tighter SLAs to labor shortages and fragmented systems, distribution operations face immense pressure. But many still rely on manual, disconnected workflows: 52% of organizations report that their order fulfillment processes remain largely or entirely manual1. These inefficiencies continue to hinder real-time responsiveness and limit the ability of DCs to scale operations during demand surges.
It’s time to rethink distribution execution. By using AIDC technologies, retailers can automatically capture accurate, real-time data at every step—realizing real-time visibility, triggering automation processes, and enabling more connected operations that turn their DCs into intelligent, high-performance fulfillment engines.
How AIDC Solutions Help Drive DC Efficiency
Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technologies—including barcode scanning, RFID, mobile computing, and thermal printing—help digitize workflows and enable real-time visibility across all DC processes.
Below is a breakdown of key DC processes, their operational requirements, how AIDC solutions support them, and critical focus points for success:
| DC Process | Operational Requirement | AIDC Solutions | What to Focus On |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receiving and Putaway | Accurate inbound tracking and location assignment | Barcode/RFID scanning and mobile computers with cloud-based verification | Ops: Ensure accurate item check-in and location tagging. IT: Integrate with WMS and receiving systems. |
| Inventory Management | Real-time stock visibility and zone accuracy | RFID handhelds, fixed readers, durable label printing, and cloud inventory updates | Ops: Maintain zone-level accuracy and replenish fast-moving SKUs. IT: Sync data consistently with inventory and ERP platforms. |
| Order Picking | Guided workflows and reduced picking errors | Mobile computers with task prompts, barcode/RFID validation, and mobile label printing | Ops: Enable efficient pick paths and reduce errors. IT: Connect picking workflow to order management systems for real-time updates. |
| Packing | Order accuracy and shipping label precision | Stationary or mobile thermal printers and order system integration | Ops: Avoid packing mismatches and labeling delays. IT: Ensure data flow from Order Management System to printers. |
| Shipping | Final validation and carrier-ready labeling | Final scan verification, thermal label printing, and data sync with shipping apps | Ops: Confirm shipment accuracy and timing. IT: Integrate with carrier systems and tracking APIs to support end-to-end visibility. |
| Returns Processing | Accurate inspection, routing, and restocking | Barcode/RFID scanning, mobile relabeling, and cloud-based routing and disposition | Ops: Streamline inspections and relabeling. IT: Automate return data flows back to inventory and CRM. |
To illustrate, improving inventory accuracy and visibility with RFID requires choosing devices that are rugged enough to withstand tough DC environments. A handheld RFID reader—such as the RFR900 or RFR901—paired with the S50 enterprise mobile computer works well for cycle counts. For greater automation, fixed RFID readers such as the FR900 can be placed at key checkpoints to track inventory movement automatically. If RFID tags go missing or become unreadable, the Alpha-40L RFID mobile printer allows staff to relabel on the spot. Explore solutions for other DC operations and get detailed recommendations with our Retail Solutions Guide.
Unlock Execution Across Every DC Workflow
With the right AIDC solutions, retailers can enable faster decision-making, better resource allocation, and scalable operations—from receiving to returns. TSC Auto ID delivers reliable mobile devices, barcode printers, and RFID solutions trusted by leading retailers. Modern DCs shouldn’t just be more efficient—but smarter, more integrated, and ready to scale with tomorrow’s retail demands.
Are you ready to build more efficient, agile DCs? Watch our webinar for expert recommendations on solution selection or contact our experts directly.
1 Bridget McCrea, 2025 Automation Survey: Diving deep into the warehouse automation trends, February 1, 2025, https://www.logisticsmgmt.com/article/2025_automation_survey_diving_deep_into_the_warehouse_automation_trends?utm_source=chatgpt.com