Asset Tracking with BLE: Improving efficiency in logistics and production

This article is part of our series about [Bluetooth](/performance/system integration) Low Energy. You can find the comprehensive guide here: The ultimate guide to [BLE](/services/system integration) App Development in Germany (2026)

Asset Tracking with BLE: Improving efficiency in logistics and production

In modern logistics and manufacturing transparency is the key to efficiency. Knowing where tools, materials, vehicles and load carriers are in real time can make the difference between a smooth process and costly delays. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) has established itself as one of the leading technologies for the Real-Time Location System (RTLS). Compared to alternatives such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) or WLAN, BLE offers a convincing combination of accuracy, energy efficiency and above all low costs for infrastructure and tags.

How does BLE-based asset tracking work?

The basic principle is simple: small, battery-operated BLE tags (also called Beacons) are attached to the assets to be tracked. These tags send a signal at regular intervals. A network of fixedly installed receivers (gateways or locators) captures these signals. Using the received signals, the position of the tag is calculated and visualized on a digital map or in a software system.

Technology for position determination: RSSI, AoA and AoD

The accuracy of the location depends heavily on the method used:

Method Accuracy Description

RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) Space/zone level (3-8 meters) The simplest method. The position is estimated on the basis of the signal strength measured by several receivers. Good, but inaccurate.

AoA (Angle of Arrival) Under 1 meter Receivers with special antenna arrays determine the angle from which the signal of the tag arrives. A precise position is calculated by triangulation of several angles.

AoD (Angle of Departure) Under 1 meter The counterpart to AoA. Here the locator sends a signal, and the day (e.g. a smartphone) calculates its position on the basis of the angle of incidence. Ideal for indoor navigation.

For most industrial applications where precise location is required, AoA and AoD are the technologies of choice. They were introduced with Bluetooth 5.1 and allow a sub-meter accuracy.

Application Cases in Practice

• Tool tracking in production: Expensive special tools are provided with tags. Employees find them immediately by app, search times are eliminated, and losses are reduced.

• ** Tracking of load carriers (pallets, containers):** In the logistics, the tracking of load carriers allows optimization of the goods flows and better utilization of the warehouse.

• Flotte Management (Gabelstapler, AGVs): Real-time tracking of vehicles helps to avoid collisions