Connectivity Technologies in Logistics

The 21st century has put an end to cumbersome maps, manual calculations, and planning without the ability to monitor transport processes in real time.

New technologies have transformed the logistics industry, turning it into one of the flagships among innovative segments.

Yes, today the best solutions are emerging from transport providers of all types and sizes. Even a company specializing in last-mile delivery can have its own multilayered digital infrastructure, equally beneficial for staff and clients.

Today, we will learn about technologies for the logistics sector, particularly those that integrate the industry’s infrastructure solutions into a single ecosystem.

Modern Challenges – Modern Solutions

Currently, it is no longer enough to simply operate significant volumes of daily shipments. The level of competition is increasing, which means constant races between brands offering logistics services.

First and foremost, we are talking about the technological component that directly impacts UX and the efficiency of processes. That’s why it is an inseparable part of modern logistics:

• Improvement of logistics operations.
• Broader opportunities for planning activities.
• Online risk management.
• Acceleration of application processing.
• Accuracy in data handling.
• Minimization of errors and the influence of the human factor.
• Synchronization of all equipment.
• Complete control over transport, personnel, and cargo.
• Exceptional and instant reporting.

Those who possess such capabilities can adapt more quickly to market realities and offer partners and clients an optimal collaboration experience. Let’s take a closer look at communication technologies and some related solutions.

5G, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet

Connecting to networks, both local and global, is not a trend but a necessity for both ordinary users and businesses. For the latter, it also provides the opportunity to build an efficient corporate infrastructure, connecting equipment and smart devices.

These technologies enable innovations such as VR/AR, the automation of logistics hubs and warehouses, telemetry in all its forms, and more.

By the way, all subsequent technologies and possibilities depend on the seamless connection of the logistics business's infrastructure to the network.

Fleet Management

Just imagine being able to monitor corporate transport from a single dashboard. All information, such as idling time, engine operation, exact geolocation, and data from various sensors, flows to the dispatch center in real time.

This and other data can be used for instant calculations of cargo delivery times, as well as to forecast and design optimal routes considering road conditions, congestion, and more.

Real-Time Tracking of Goods

Instantly displaying the position of a customer order on a map? This is no problem if you combine IoT devices with GPS and 5G.

Moreover, with specialized equipment, it is possible to monitor, for example, the temperature microclimate in refrigerators, tankers, and even control it remotely.

Management of Cross-Docking Operations

A large fleet can be a challenging issue, especially when it comes to establishing a seamless process for loading and unloading vehicles. However, this is entirely feasible with modern technologies.

For instance, simple tracking of trucks is sufficient for planning the sequence of their servicing by warehouse facilities, distributing transport across various hubs, etc.

Tracking Current Situations on Routes

Combining different methods of route monitoring and gathering information from truck equipment, including recorder logs, will help dispatchers efficiently organize transport processes.

Communication technologies play a critical role in this regard. Thanks to 5G, it becomes possible to instantly receive incoming data about the current state of roads and model alternative routes, calculate delays, etc.

Big Data та Cloud

The same 5G, Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth allow the logistics business to interact with enormous volumes of information. However, processing this data requires significant computational power, which can only be provided by cloud platforms and Data Lake systems.

Data collected from open and corporate sources can be used for predictive analytics, risk assessment, and planning the load for each individual vehicle and warehouse, etc.

IoT in Transport Processes

In addition to directly tracking truck movement, IoT devices (connected to the infrastructure via 5G) can significantly ease the lives of drivers, dispatchers, technical support staff, and even clients.

For drivers, this means the ability to monitor the condition of transport and cargo directly while on the road.

Dispatchers can track and control various systems, such as refrigeration equipment.

Technical support personnel can quickly diagnose faults and the status of various vehicle components by reading data from devices and equipment on board.

Clients receive comprehensive information about the location of goods, estimated arrival times, and more.

Opportunities for Interaction with AI

All of the above can already provide an innovative UX for all direct and related participants in logistics processes. However, integrating AI into the infrastructure further optimizes the operational component of the business.

In particular, the system will monitor the current status of each cargo, automatically collect and process data, plan routes, and manage loading and unloading processes, among other tasks.

A Touch of Futurism

The bandwidth of communication channels increases annually, and new technologies and equipment emerge. Very soon, we may see vehicles on the roads with remote drivers or even fully autonomous vehicles.

Yes, as soon as 5G and GPS coverage reaches 100% of the area serviced by a provider, they will be able to automate at least some of the logistics processes and vehicles, reducing operational costs and improving business profitability.

Therefore, it is essential to keep a pulse on technological advancements, monitor the development of communications, and strive to maintain the infrastructure of your business up to date.

Do you have your own cases or predictions?

Share them in the comments!