Millions of returnable transport items (RTIs) such as containers, bins, pallets, racks, and kegs move through the global supply chain, providing the most fundamental way parts, materials, and finished goods reach their destination.

Standardized, reusable containers have become increasingly popular among manufacturers and their trading partners to transport goods and drive efficiency throughout a supply chain. Returnable containers, which come in various shapes and sizes, are provided to supply chain partners to simplify the transportation of parts and materials from a supplier to an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and between OEM plants.

Because these containers are durable and reusable and require little to no maintenance, they offer many benefits to manufacturers and suppliers, including reducing waste and cost, increasing efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness, and fulfilling "green" initiatives by reducing waste. However, the issues associated with managing these containers pose many challenges for manufacturers.

These containers exist within large, multi-supplier supply chains. Lack of disciplined process and poor visibility into the location and movement of these containers can create significant levels of container surplus and waste. Up to 30% of containers in manufacturers' supply chains are in excess, underscoring the need to streamline these processes and gain visibility into the movement of containers.