The evolution of technology is pushing the boundaries and changing how the world does business. One of the main purposes of technology innovation is to make tasks cheaper and more efficient. That is particularly the case in the logistics arena, where technology improves the quality of service and the satisfaction of customers.
Improved technology has decreased costs and errors, and increased also increased productivity through the years. Benefiting all of the logistics industry: trucking transportation, international transportation (ocean and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking. Here is a quick look at some modern technology that’s paving the way for the future of logistics.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Many devices are now made with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities and sensors, from cell phones and refrigerators to ceiling fans. Wi-Fi and the internet connects everyone to everything, which is why it’s called Internet of Things.
In logistics and other industries, IoT is reducing costs and delay by connecting machines and systems for faster communication. For example, in factories, IoT technology allows managers to quickly check overall status of machines, energy consumption, and product flow.
Sensors are built into cargo ships, trains, etc., and connect to an alarm system or dispatcher that is monitoring and tracking. These sensors process and transmit the information to the crew who then gains insight into hidden risks and knowledge.
All this makes potential problems quickly identifiable, reducing waste and potentially bigger problems down the line. In the end, it will save companies both time and money.
Drones
We’re currently headed to computer driven unmanned vehicles and the logistics industry wants a part of it.
A few years ago, drones were mainly used for military strategies and ability to spy without human risk. These days, drones are used for everyday activities, whether it’s taking breathtaking sceneries or filming large crowds. It’s even used now for logistics. Amazon announced their new delivery service right to doorstep by drones, called Amazon Prime Air.
When fully utilized, drones can improve several tasks. Saving gas and manpower in rural deliveries and can even help with the security in ensuring the safety of the employees and businesses
App Base Autonomous Vehicle
One current tech innovation that penetrated freight brokerage is an Uber-like system in which a mobile app could help match shippers and drivers. cutting out the middleman, which will decrease cost of shipping. There are mobile apps in South East Asia currently running this system.
In the future, freight could jump on to autonomous vehicle, making shipping items across the country more efficient and safer. Autonomous cars are already a reality and we’ll be seeing trucks not that far ahead. Uber has made long hauls using autonomous trucks in Arizona. It wasn’t completely driverless, a safety driver was in it to monitor the computer.
It’s still a long way for autonomous vehicles to take over, but it might take shorter than we expected.
GPS & Tracking Systems
Before, customers booked shipments, received an estimated delivery date and then just wait without any assurance if it’ll be delivered on time. Today, thanks to advance softwares customers have access to tracking systems 24/7. Monitor and manage shipments even at the comfort of our homes.
The advanced accuracy of GPS allowed customers the exact locations of their shipment in real-time. Thanks also to improved GPS drivers are able to know the fastest route to take to ensure the goods are delivered on time.
Social Media
Currently there are 3.196 Billion active social media users. All industries including logistics is utilizing social media for their operations. Using different platforms to communicate faster to customers and convey urgent information. It became more convenient for customers to reach out using social media so it’s important for the logistics company to be present in all the major social media platforms
The logistics industry just like all industries is not immune to the advances in technology. As tech continues to progress, the industry has to be competitive and enhance efficiency, and keep up. The logistics industry is reaping benefits from the these innovations and will continue to grow as more advances are made.
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