How Technology is Changing the Future of Logistics

 

Hello everyone,

This is Vembu Raj T, pursuing my MBA second year in Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore. Todays my blog is on topic “How Technology is Changing the Future of Logistics”. From this blog we would know about the five big technological developments that are transforming the logistics industry 's future.

Technological evolution is pushing the boundaries and changing the way the world does business. Today, for instant access, we're used to everything being online and right at our fingertips. Is it possible to receive a package less than an hour after ordering? Now it is possible depending on where you live, via Amazon, the pioneer of fast-paced delivery services. Improved technology has also improved supply chain efficiency, minimizing costs and mistakes. These advances benefit all areas of the logistics industry: trucking transportation, international transportation (ocean and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking.

Here are five big technological developments that are transforming the logistics industry 's future.

1.      Radio Frequency Identification (RFID):

A common labor-saving way for businesses to monitor their inventory is RFID technology, which has also been in use for a few years.  A tag or sensor is placed on the product and radio waves are sent out. The information is then received and processed by the organisation. Barcodes are similar to RFID tags, but the superior speed of information delivery and data processing of RFIDs is more attractive to companies and the way technology travels. Today, many companies are using RFID tags in their distribution warehouses to monitor containers. Other industries are already using RFID tags, such as the apparel industry and major theme parks.

2.      Automotive trucks and drones:

With trucks not too far behind, autonomous cars are already a reality. Embark and Uber have both used autonomous vehicles for long hauls, with Tesla launching a truck this year. Although it wasn't fully driverless, it is a major move in this revolutionary technology with a driver in the passenger seat to control the machine and has the ability to improve productivity in the distribution phase.

Amazon have revealed the future of drones, called Amazon Prime Air, bringing deliveries right to the door. Because of regulatory measures and related costs, drone deliveries are still a few years away, but the prospect of not having to sit around over a four-hour period waiting for a delivery is very tempting.

3.      Shipment Tracking Systems:

Customers previously booked orders, obtained an approximate arrival date, and then, unless they wanted to make a phone call, were left in the dark. Today, advancements in the Internet and software give consumers 24/7 access to shipping and tracking systems. Not only does this boost the customer experience, but it also saves the business time and money.

4.      Enhanced GPS Accuracy:

Completely gone are the days when before you left the house, you printed out instructions from the screen. Nearly everybody uses GPS today, whether it's built-in on their cars or mobile phones. Throughout the years, the precision of these instruments has improved dramatically, not only helping angry, lost drivers, but also enhancing the supply chain. The advanced GPS accuracy makes it possible to increase efficiency and satisfy customers by monitoring the positions of trucks and improving transportation through access to updated traffic data.

5.      Social Media:

The power of social media is optimizing the logistics industry and operations as a whole. These networks are becoming the fastest and most powerful way for businesses to connect with consumers, rapidly sharing urgent information, industry news, and customer responses. 59 percent of Americans who have a social media account believe, according to Hootsuite, that customer service via social media has made it easier to address questions and concerns.