GPS-supported tracking in large size bearings logistics – Schaeffler expands smart box system

2025-06-30 | Schweinfurt

• GPS trackers collect location and environmental data for optimized logistics processes
• Large bearings in the wind power sector can be traced more precisely
• Around 300 GPS trackers already in use at Schaeffler

Schaeffler is now focusing on digital traceability in the logistics of large size bearings. The focus is on expanding the existing smart box system to include GPS-based positioning technology. The new function will be used as part of a proof-of-concept in the field of large bearing applications for wind power with the aim of being able to trace products more precisely and to use resources along the supply chain more transparently.

"Thanks to GPS tracking, the smart box becomes an intelligent information carrier. The real-time transparency makes it possible to monitor warehouses seamlessly during transport. This enables us to make logistics processes even more efficient, sustainable, and safer," emphasizes Slawomir Maiczek, who is responsible for the project at Schaeffler's Bearings & Industrial Solutions Division.

Reusable transport boxes for large size bearings
Schaeffler introduced the smart box system back in 2021. The so-called smart boxes are modular reusable transport containers designed for the shipment of rolling bearings with a large outer diameter. They replace disposable boxes and support the resource cycle thanks to their reusability. The boxes are based on the dimensions of a Euro pallet and can be stacked. The uniform design enables simplified warehousing and reduces the complexity of packaging and return transport.

GPS tracking for optimized logistics
Adding GPS trackers to the system has several advantages. The focus is on tracking the physical location of the boxes, especially with regard to turnaround times, downtimes and return processes. The information obtained from the trackers allows data-supported control of delivery and return logistics.

In addition to positioning, the trackers also record other physical variables such as temperature, humidity and acceleration. This data provides information about environmental conditions and possible effects during handling and transport. This can be used to derive how the product is handled along the supply chain.

A total of around 300 GPS trackers are currently in use at Schaeffler. The focus is on the transport of main bearing applications in the wind power sector. The asset tracking solution comes from the German provider SmartMakers. The GPS trackers enable precise positioning and regularly send data to an IoT platform.

The tracking system has been extensively tested and continuously optimized at Schaeffler during ongoing operations for two years. The combination of modular packaging solution and IoT tracking offers a scalable approach to process optimization in industrial freight transport.