UPS rolls out RFID tech across US network for real-time tracking

United Parcel Service announced that it is rolling out radio frequency identification package sensing technology across its U.S. small package network to enhance visibility and reliability, with the system now deployed in delivery vehicles, facilities and more than 5,500 The UPS Store locations are included in this rollout, which is part of UPS's broader Network of the Future strategy.

The rollout makes UPS the first major logistics provider to implement RFID technology at scale across an integrated network. The company said it has invested more than $100 million to develop and deploy the technology, marking a significant step in its digital transformation efforts.

“We’re lighting up customers’ supply chains in real time with RFID, enabling precise tracking, faster insights, a smarter network and smarter packages,” said Matt Guffey, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer. “This is the most significant visibility advancement in the past decade at UPS and in our industry.”

The company said the shift from traditional scanning to sensing represents a natural evolution in logistics operations. While scanning has been the industry standard since the early 1990s, RFID enables automatic detection of packages throughout the network without the need for manual scans, improving service continuity and operational efficiency.

“With RFID embedded into labels, on our vehicles and in our loading bays, customers benefit from clear visibility during the entire shipping process from pickup to delivery, with no manual scanning required. The result is commerce that is smarter and predictable,” Guffey added.

UPS said the technology simplifies logistics for customers by managing operational complexity internally, eliminating the need for additional systems or technical expertise. RFID pickup sensing confirms when packages are collected and in the company’s possession, while continuous sensing throughout the network provides real-time updates on shipment progress.

The enhanced data capabilities also allow UPS to respond more quickly to disruptions such as weather events and other unforeseen conditions, improving reliability and transparency. The company added that RFID technology is already in daily use, supporting millions of packages across its network.

UPS, which reported revenue of $88.7 billion in 2025, operates in more than 200 countries and territories and employs approximately 460,000 people globally.