Customers who rely on modern logistics firms to ship cargo seamlessly from one place to another sometimes fail to appreciate the sophistication of real-time logistics and supply chain monitoring technologies. Many firms utilize tracking to obtain “Big Data” inputs. This automated process ultimately contributes to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the enterprise.
Why Real-Time Tracking Matters
Why have cutting-edge logistics enterprises invested so extensively in tracking systems? The ability to monitor fleet operations in real time supplies a variety of benefits. Just consider a few of these advantages:
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Real-time tracking helps identify high traffic routes and peak demand periods;
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This process significantly reduces pilferage;
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Managers utilize real-time tracking systems to respond quickly to unexpected delays or problems along the road;
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Real-time tracking permits greater employee and manager accountability;
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Feedback from real-time tracking systems optimizes the performance of logistics software (ultimately enhancing revenues).
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Radio calls and other communications documented with transcription services can be synced to tracking data to scrutinize incidents and zero-in on exact time frames.
An Illustration
Perhaps one of the clearest examples of the benefits of the use of so-called “Big Data” stems from the adoption of real-time tracking inputs within the trucking industry. Today, new generations of robust GPS truck tracking software programs enable fleet managers to maintain close contact with drivers along the road. This technology enables dispatchers to direct drivers away from routes experiencing weather closures or accident-related delays towards alternate roads before slowdowns occur in a delivery pipeline. This increased safety cuts down on accident rates and delays, thereby helping to reduce costs ranging from general liability insurance premiums to refunds for damaged goods.
Additionally, by permitting the tracking of cargo loads with specificity, many logistics programs optimize the use of resources. A trucking company with the capability of monitoring trucks on the road more easily evaluates opportunities to combine partial loads at designated locations to increase revenues. Just a few decades ago, many trucking firms could not always determine reliably whether or not their dispatched trucks had deviated by several miles from the anticipated pickup and delivery routes, a situation which might make accepting a partial load more expensive. Today, many companies know the exact locations of cargo and vehicles at all times with the assistance of accurate GPS tracking software, and they can evaluate profitable pickup and delivery stops.
Real-Time Inputs Contributing to Big Data
By compiling accurate real-time tracking inputs from multiple vehicles transporting cargo, today’s fast logistics software programs create huge streams of data. These feeds contribute to the preparation of “Big Data” intelligence databases, which in turn assist a multitude of systems users. Consider many fleet managers maintain tracking systems: trucking companies, railroads, marine vessels, and air cargo carriers. The feedback from these diverse sources helps inform logistics programs serving freight shippers and their customers.
The results of data tracking permit shipping companies to supply realistic estimates for customers concerning anticipated shipment delivery dates, for example. They also promote more cost-effective services. For instance, managers can evaluate any “bottlenecks” which occur in modern transportation networks and arrange for additional or alternative freight carrying services more easily.
Real-Time Tracking and “Big Data” Benefit Customers
The ability to respond quickly to transportation problems enhances the dependability of logistics firms today. They utilize the combination of real-time tracking and “Big Data” computerized analysis to assist customers in obtaining less expensive, more efficient, and more dependable shipping services. Customers (and freight transportation companies themselves) both ultimately benefit from this improvement.
© 2018, Allen Smith. All rights reserved.
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