With the advent of technology, the ways in which a business functions are changing. Today everything is done via the internet. Whether you want to track orders or place new ones, everything is available at a tap of a keypad. Many well-known online delivery sites are a great example of this process.
You order a certain item and you get it within a few days of the order placement. Technology advancement also increased the efficiency of supply chains, where errors are minimized. This benefits all the areas of logistic industry such as the transport (national and international) through ocean or air, warehousing and distribution process, truck transport, shipment tracking, etc.
Below I have mentioned a few technological advancements being used in the logistics industry.
1. Tracking system
Before, customers would receive an estimated delivery date, and usually, it would fluctuate so knowing the exact date of delivery was not possible. Shipping companies today are using the tracking system, enabling a person to track their item from the time it has left the warehouse, to the time its dispatched and picked up for shipping. Everything can be tracked through a mobile/computer screen 24x7. The tracking system has all the necessary requirements of a person, whether it is the delivery person’s contact information or the current location of your package.
2. GPS Accuracy
We no longer live in a generation where you have to open floor sized maps in order to figure out the route to a particular location. GPS has come into the picture and it largely helps the lost drivers and also the supply chains profit a lot from this technology. You can locate your truck location and even improve your speed and the time it takes by getting updated on the traffic data which comes with the GPS and Google Maps present today. This increases your customer satisfaction and enhances your productivity.
3. Social Media
Social media is the new normal. Today everyone is present on social media. And wherever the customers are more, that’s where you have to establish your business and that is what the logistics industry is doing which leads them to earn good profit. Because of social media, the industries are able to communicate with their customers and develop a healthy relationship. Hence, developing a loyal customer base. Whether it is communication or passing any new information about your business, letting people know about the new schemes and development in the industry; social media is a great platform for such transmission.
4. IoT (internet of things)
The Internet of Things is connecting everyone easily through a Wi-fi or internet connection. Iot is helping supply chains by reducing their costs and avoiding their risks. Sensors are being placed inside packages, cabs, and trains of cargo, etc. These sensors help in transmitting the information and that helps to prevent any kind of jeopardy to the cargo. Shipping companies are using Iot largely for their benefit.
Thus, to improve your efficiency and remain competitive in the market, keeping up with the latest technology can help you immensely and prove fruitful in the long run.