Challenges in Fresh Logistics

Fresh logistics is a high-risk area – especially when it comes to processing, storing, and transporting perishable goods such as food or pharmaceutical products. A missed BBD control, a broken cold chain, or faulty picking can quickly lead to major losses and dissatisfied customers.

To minimize such risks while increasing efficiency, companies need a digital solution that is not only reliable and transparent but also integrates seamlessly into existing warehouse and retail structures. COSYS offers exactly that: a comprehensive system for fresh logistics that merges software, hardware, service, and business intelligence into one powerful concept.

BBD Capture Made Easy – with COSYS MHD Control

COSYS‘ BBD software is specifically tailored to the needs of fresh logistics. It starts right at the goods receipt: Items are captured via barcode scan, and the best-before date is either entered manually or read automatically using OCR technology. This intelligent text recognition reliably reads printed BBDs on packaging – regardless of format or layout.

Captured data is centrally stored and linked to the respective storage locations. Throughout the storage process, automatic notifications can be triggered when products near expiration. This gives companies the opportunity to implement measures such as markdowns, targeted sales, or reallocation in time.

A major advantage is the transparent analysis: All BBD data can be clearly viewed and filtered by department, product group, or location via the browser-based COSYS WebDesk. Tasks such as BBD checks, price adjustments, or write-offs can also be managed and tracked from there.

Zebra MC9400 – The Ideal Hardware for Tough Environments

Reliable mobile data collection hinges on having the right hardware. The Zebra MC9400 is the latest generation in the proven MC9000 series – tougher, faster, and more flexible than ever. Designed specifically for industrial use in warehouse and fresh logistics, it features Wi-Fi 6E and 5G connectivity, making it ideal for large cold storage facilities.

A standout feature: Its new scanning engine reads barcodes from up to 30 meters away – perfect for tall racks. It is also available in models suited for cold environments and hazardous areas, and includes features like biometric facial recognition, hot-swappable batteries, and OCR Wedge for automatic label data capture.

COSYS seamlessly integrates the MC9400 into its software solution – including device configuration, user management, and maintenance. Companies receive a fully ready-to-use system for mobile operations.

A Complete System for the Entire Supply Chain

What sets COSYS apart from other providers is the all-in-one service approach: In addition to BBD control, COSYS also offers software modules for warehouse management, transport logistics, retail operations, and internal logistics (IBT). All modules can be flexibly combined and are based on a unified data platform.

COSYS also provides a wide range of hardware: Alongside mobile computers like the Zebra MC9400, the portfolio includes label printers, handheld scanners, and even autonomous robots. The accompanying services – from selection and setup to support – ensure smooth operations and quick response times.

This offering is further enhanced by business intelligence dashboards that deliver key figures at the push of a button: Which items expire regularly? Where do avoidable losses occur? Which warehouse zones perform best? These evaluations enable data-driven decisions and contribute to continuous process optimization.

Use Case: BBD Control in a Food Logistics Warehouse

A mid-sized food logistics company supplies supermarkets and gastronomy outlets with fresh products daily. Previously, BBDs were often checked only during picking – too late to react to expiring goods. Since implementing COSYS’ BBD control solution, everything is digital: At goods receipt, staff scan products using the Zebra MC9400. The software automatically detects the BBD via OCR and assigns it to the corresponding storage locations and batches.

When a product approaches its expiration threshold, the system alerts the user. In the WebDesk, these items are clearly filtered, allowing sales teams to initiate targeted discount campaigns. In the first month after implementation, spoilage was reduced by 42%. At the same time, product availability improved thanks to system-supported FiFo picking. The company now saves costs and significantly improves customer satisfaction.

Conclusion: Smart Systems for Smart Fresh Logistics

Fresh logistics is no place for half-hearted solutions. To consistently guarantee freshness, minimize losses, and ensure customer satisfaction, businesses need a well-thought-out system – flexible, scalable, and secure.

With COSYS’ BBD control, the ultra-rugged Zebra MC9400, and a comprehensive package of software, hardware, services, and data analytics, COSYS delivers just that: digital, efficient, and 100% reliable. Try it out yourself with our free demo app – available in the Play Store and App Store.