IoT- Redefining Logistics

According to Siddiqui, Companies have become more open towards cloud-based applications like LogiNext. It is also predicted by a report drafted by Gartner Inc that there will be around 14.2 billion connected devices. “All this will improve the data points captured simultaneously improving location analytics, which, is a major area of interest for all the logistics and transportation sector.”

Nahata adds, “A key trend dominating the supply chain and logistics industry is leveraging IoT to gain greater control of delivery processes. The IoT devices are built-in with sensors, which facilitate easy monitoring of goods through each leg of the supply chain, even in areas with poor connectivity. These sensors generate massive volumes of data like shipment locations, inventory status, etc, which is transmitted back to core supply chain applications. This, in turn, makes it easy for businesses to analyze risks, gain predictive intelligence and make data-driven decisions.”

Nahata emphasizes that with the incorporation of 5G connectivity Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) will take real-time telematics to a whole new level. “According to a report, 5G will be crucial in driving the growth of autonomous vehicles, largescale Internet of Things (IoT) and drones. Other logistics-specific applications like fleet management and predictive maintenance will benefit from this standard and potentially drive greater efficiencies in the supply chain.”

IoT applications in Logistics

Location management

In the logistics domain, IoT can create a smart location management system that will enable companies to easily track driver activities, vehicle location, and delivery status. Once goods are delivered or come to a certain place, a manager is notified by a push message.

Such a solution is an irreplaceable assistant in delivery planning and compilation and viewing of schedules. All changes are instantly detected and reflected in real time. So, IoT technology can be successfully used for improving location management and streamlining business processes.

Tracking Inventory

One of the most important parts of the connected logistics ecosystem is inventory management and warehousing. Once IoT technology comes into use, the employees will be able to successfully prevent any losses, ensure safe storage of goods, as well as efficiently locating an item needed. The minimization of human errors also becomes possible due to IoT.

Self-driving vehicles

Soon, we will become the witnesses of the widespread use and adoption of self-driving vehicles, being tested now. Logistics companies will be the first to take an advantage of their integration into business processes.

While IoT devices are responsible for collecting large data amounts, the  analytics system turns them into smart driving routes and directions. This way, businesses can also minimize car accidents, reduce operating costs and optimize road traffic.

Monitor sensitive goods

Some factories regularly receive shipments of perishable or sensitive goods that only stay fresh for a short time, and/or require specific environmental conditions to maintain quality.

IoT application will help the user tag those perishable materials, thus monitoring the humidity, temperature and other important parameters. This detailed information will notify truck drivers of damaged shipments long before they arrive at the factory or other designated location and get a new shipment when on the way.