Abstract: A sensor-based bag counting system for monitoring bag use at a check out stand or the like. The preferred embodiment teaches a scale, pressure switch, or like sensor unit which integrates with a bag rack to sense the load generated by a bag as it is loaded and use same to count the bags at they are removed from the rack, and compile data including the number of bags per customer per transaction, the average amount or product per bag, the amount of bags packed overweight or underweight, and other data which can be used to for instructional purposes, monitor bag usage, or calculate the deposit to be charged the customer for the bags used, for example. tracking, managing, dispensing and recycling bags, particularly retail and grocery-type bags such as t-shirt bags and the like. An RFID based bag monitoring and management system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An RFID-based system for tracking, managing, dispensing and recycling bags, particularly retail and grocery-type bags such as t-shirt bags and the like. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a system wherein there is employed at a T-Shirt bag fabrication facility an RFID tag dispensing system for affixing an RFID tag to the thermoplastic film utilized in forming a T-shirt bag, which bag is formed into a stack. The RFID tag is associated with the bag at the time of manufacture, and information pertaining to said bag is saved in a central computer, which is subsequently used in shipping and management of the bag(s). A sensor bag rack is provided for supporting the bag pack during dispensing and use of the bags at the checkout counter, which supports the bag during loading and is configured to relay data on said bag as it is removed from the rack for placement in the customers cart, or otherwise provided to the customer.