Integration of RFID-Enabled Smart Shopping Carts for Real-Time Product Scanning and Billing using Arduino and React Framework

In today's era, traditional shopping encounters inefficiencies, with over 70% of consumers dissatisfied due to slow checkout processes, resulting in an average of 2.5 hours hypothetically wasted by waiting in queues. Streamlined shopping experiences are vital for both consumers and retailers, as traditional stores face challenges like long queues, billing errors, and time-consuming item scanning. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for improving the shopping experience and staying competitive in the retail industry. This paper presents the development of a modern, user-centric smart shopping cart design that integrates Radio- Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and Arduino Uno, incorporating components such as the EM-I8 module, RFID tags, LCD display, and ESP32 Wi-Fi module. The system empowers users to scan items, view item details, generate digital bills, featuring a two-fold scanning mechanism for adding and deleting items. Through the utilization of React.js, Node.js, and MongoDB, a centralized website is created to interface with the smart cart, while ESP32 Wi-Fi module establishes connection for seamless synchronization between hardware and web interface for real-time viewing of scanned items. Moreover, online payment integration allows users to conclude their shopping experience effortlessly. This solution aims to deliver an automated and efficient shopping journey, prioritizing user convenience and stress-free experiences.