AirTag, You're It: Reverse Logistics and Last Mile Dynamics

TL;DR

This paper explores how Bluetooth LE tracking with Apple AirTags can improve reverse logistics and last-mile delivery efficiency, especially in disaster relief, by providing real-time data and simulation insights.

Contribution

It introduces a novel empirical approach using AirTags for tracking cargo movements and applies discrete event simulation to optimize hub-spoke logistics networks.

Findings

BLE tracking enables real-time cargo monitoring

Simulation identifies optimal hub reliance points

AirTags improve logistics flexibility in crises

Abstract

This study addresses challenges in reverse logistics, a frequently overlooked but essential component of last-mile delivery, particularly in disaster relief scenarios where infrastructure disruptions demand adaptive solutions. While hub-and-spoke logistics networks excel at long-distance scalability, they often fail to optimize closely spaced spokes reliant on distant hubs, introducing inefficiencies in transit times and resource allocation. Using 20 Apple AirTags embedded in packages, this research provides empirical insights into logistical flows, capturing granular spatial and temporal data through Bluetooth LE (BLE) 5 trackers integrated with the Apple Find My network. These trackers demonstrated their value in monitoring dynamic cargo movements, enabling real-time adjustments in mobile hub placement and route optimization, particularly in disaster relief contexts like Hurricane Helene. A novel application of discrete event simulation (DES) further explored the saddle point in hub-spoke configurations, where excessive hub reliance clashes with diminishing spoke interaction demand. By coupling simulation results with empirical AirTag tracking, the study highlights the potential of BLE technology to refine reverse logistics, reduce delays, and improve operational flexibility in both routine and crisis-driven delivery networks.