The logistics industry is set to evolve over the next few years. There are a number of innovative electronic freight management technologies that will definitely make transporting commodities more efficient. PortCity in Savannah GA and other full-service logistics brokers are using these technologies to help gain an edge in delivering the best logistics solutions to their clients. Here is a closer look at how digital technologies are helping change the shipping industry.
Nanotechnology and Logistics
While metals will likely remain an important part of ship structures, the implementation of nano-scale manipulation will impact the making of ship structures going forward. Analysts believe that using magnesium or calcium particles could help strengthen welds. The coating will also help protect vessels. Shipping companies can also enhance the fuel economy by using advanced steel, glass fiber, and aluminum composites. There are rumors that self-repairing materials are being created, which could reduce equipment downtime and increase safety.
Robotics in Commercial Shipping
Analysts have predicted that robots will eventually be used more than ever in commercial shipping. They include: learning robots that mimic a human ability to correct mistakes and determine the best ways of accomplishing tasks and industrial, load-handling robots. These automatons could also help detect and prevent emissions and pollutants. The robotic technologies will work in conjunction with the onset of “big data” usage and the Internet of Things. Additionally, this new technology will help reduce the amount of human interaction with potentially dangerous processes.
Autonomous Shipping Systems
Autonomous vehicles are starting to show up in many transport-related industries. In the future, many analysts expect to see both autonomous surface and underwater vessels. The vehicles will likely be inexpensive and used in different gas and oil operations. Also in the works are different types of air and land vehicles that are equipped with renewable energy harvesting devices, sensing capabilities, and advanced propulsion systems.
Wireless Freight Monitoring
New sensor technology will eliminate the importance of a hands-on presence in remote locations. Sensors will collect data and then transmit the information on demand, allowing, among other things, shipowners to enhance the maintenance on their vessels. Maintenance needs, weather conditions, freight status and position can all be transmitted to almost anywhere in the world with satellite and other means.
Big Data
Big data will help reduce the total operating costs. The vast quantities of information on almost any metric will also help companies create new business models and become more efficient. Big data gives shippers the opportunity to see which routes will lead to the biggest yields, impacting production and warehousing of raw materials. With more products being available online, consumers have more granular control over what they buy and how they receive a purchase. This is why more organizations are turning to big data to help them make important decisions. Big data also results in fewer errors during the delivery and pickup stages
Electronic Freight Management (EFM)
Electronic Freight Management is a collection of powerful on-demand software solutions. EFM helps makes things easier for shippers and drivers by streamlining the supply of drivers and available equipment to transport loads on the appropriate routes and dates. Shippers can receive competitive rates and favorable schedules by the availability and distribution of on-demand information.
EFM allows companies to avoid using a middleman, allowing drivers to quickly upload delivery confirmation through a handheld device. This helps shippers receive good freight rates because the capital requirements are lower. In the future, analysts predict that trucks will be able to use sensors to help determine the maximum amount of freight that they can handle. The technology will help create a new line of communication between shippers and truck operators.
PortCity is on top of the all the changes to the logistics industry here in Savannah and globally. Go with PortCity when you need cutting edge solutions to your shipping needs. Call us today at 912-298-7150.