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Whatever the next crisis, businesses willing to invest in technology to strengthen their supply chains and abandon pen and paper will have a better chance of survival.
FREMONT, CA: The advancement of technology redefines boundaries and reshapes the way the world conducts business. Today, everyone has grown accustomed to everything being available online and instantly accessible. Amazon, the pioneer of lightning-fast delivery, makes it possible to receive a package within an hour of ordering, depending on the
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Additionally, improved technology has increased supply chain productivity by reducing costs and errors. These advancements benefit every logistics industry sector, including trucking, international transportation (by sea and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking. The following are some significant technological advancements that are reshaping the logistics industry's future.
Shipping tracking systems
Some platforms include real-time tracking, which provides shippers with invaluable visibility. Drivers are relieved of the burden of reporting their locations and estimated arrival times. At the same time, shippers can check in on the site of their freight regularly at their convenience. This is especially advantageous and perhaps necessary when transporting goods across borders.
Internet of Things (IoT) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
The Internet of Things presents numerous opportunities for the supply chain, including cost and time savings associated with risk avoidance. Sensors are integrated into cabs, cargo ships, and trains, for example, and connect to a monitoring and tracking system or dispatcher. These sensors process and transmit data to the crew, gaining insight into unknown risks and information. Although the Internet of Things is not a new technology, it impacts the future of logistics by enabling more accurate tracking and delivery of goods in transit.
RFID technology, which has been in use for a few years, is a popular labour-saving method of tracking inventory for businesses. On the product, a tag or sensor is attached, and radio waves are transmitted. The company then receives and processes the data. While barcodes are similar to RFID tags, the superior speed with which information is delivered and processed makes RFIDs more appealing to businesses, and the way technology is evolving. Numerous companies now use RFID tags to monitor containers in their distribution warehouses. RFID tags are already being used in other industries, such as the apparel industry and major theme parks.
GPS Accuracy Enhancement
The days of printing directions from the computer before leaving the house are long gone. Almost everyone now uses GPS, whether it is integrated into their vehicles or their smartphones. The accuracy of these devices has improved dramatically over the years, benefiting not only frustrated, lost drivers but also the supply chain. By tracking trucks' locations and optimising hauls with access to updated traffic data, GPS enables increased productivity and satisfied customers.
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