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

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.17447 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2502.17447/

## Key facts

- No citing papers in the map yet (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 6 of its 33 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 3 Feb 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 6 of 6)

- [AirGuard -- Protecting Android Users From Stalking Attacks By Apple Find My Devices](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2202.11813/) (2022)
- [A Tagging Solution to Discover IoT Devices in Apartments](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2210.06676/) (2022)
- [I Tag, You Tag, Everybody Tags!](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2303.06073/) (2023)
- [Stop Following Me! Evaluating the Effectiveness of Anti-Stalking Features of Personal Item Tracking Devices](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2312.07157/) (2023)
- [Securing the Invisible Thread: A Comprehensive Analysis of BLE Tracker Security in Apple AirTags and Samsung SmartTags](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.13584/) (2024)
- [AirTags for Human Localization, Not Just Objects](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2410.02329/) (2024)

## Abstract (arXiv)

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.