RFID and NFC Explained

Transforming Moving and Home Inventory

If you’ve ever tapped your phone to pay for coffee, scanned a badge to enter an office, or tracked a package online, you’ve already used technology similar to RFID and NFC—even if you didn’t know it.

In the moving and relocation industry, these technologies are becoming powerful tools for tracking inventory, reducing loss, improving accuracy, and giving customers peace of mind. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, and why they matter—without the tech jargon.

What Is RFID?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification.

At its simplest, RFID is a way for objects to identify themselves wirelessly.

 How RFID Works (In Plain English)

  • A small RFID tag is attached to an item

  • A reader sends out a radio signal

  • The tag responds with its unique ID

  • The system records that the item is present

There’s no need to scan a barcode or see the label—RFID works automatically and at a distance.

What makes RFID Unique?

  • Can be read from several feet (or more) away

  • Can scan multiple items at once

  • Does not require line-of-sight

  • Tags can be embedded in labels, stickers, or even inside objects

What is NFC?

NFC stands for Near Field Communication.

You can think of NFC as a short-range cousin of RFID.

How NFC Works

  • An NFC tag is placed on an item

  • A phone or device is held very close (usually within an inch)

  • The tag transmits its information instantly

If RFID is great for scanning lots of items quickly, NFC is ideal for intentional, one-by-one interactions.

Key Characteristics of NFC

  • Extremely short range

  • Often uses smartphones

  • Great for confirmations, check-ins, and customer interaction

  • Common in contactless payments and access cards

Dan Lammers

As co-owner of Ace Relocation Systems for the past 30 years, Dan has led the Ace’s national operations with a focus on operational excellence and technological innovation. Under his leadership, the company has seen significant advancements in efficiency and customer satisfaction, driven by his commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in logistics.

His technology-focused approach has been a key driver in modernizing logistics solutions and enhancing data-driven decision-making processes throughout the moving industry. Dan brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Relosy, helping drive our solutions to meet the needs of the industry. 

Dan holds a BS in Business from San Jose State University.

Larry Lammers

As co-owner of Ace Relocation Systems for over 30 years, Larry has spearheaded the company’s growth and technological advancement. His leadership has expanded the Ace organization to 10 branches nationwide, making them a leader in the moving industry. He also serves on the boards of Atlas World Group, Inc. and Atlas Van Lines (Canada) Ltd., contributing to broader industry innovations.

Larry’s focus on implementing cutting-edge technology helped modernized Ace’s technology ecosystem, which set the stage for industry modernization as a whole.  Larry acts as special adviser to Relosys, providing deep industry knowledge and process expertise to our business to ensure it aligns with industry needs.

Larry holds a BS in Business from San Jose State University.