This article focuses on the Internet of Things, or IoT, and its adoption in transport & logistics. We will discuss how it allows businesses to improve safety and security.
Let’s look at the IoT adoption on the market and how this is affecting transportation and logistics. The global IoT-connected devices installed base is estimated to be 30.9billion by 2025. This figure is significantly higher than the 13.8billion expected in 2021. (Statista). In 2020, IoT spending in Travel & Transportation was $40 billion. These numbers will increase in 2021.
IoT and the transport and logistics sector: How can it be used? IoT is an industry that can best be utilized. Let’s examine the following segment.
Internet of Things – Best Usecases for Transportation & Logistics
The availability of small-sized computing chips and wireless networks has made it possible for thousands of products to be connected. RFID, beacons, sensors, drones, etc. IoT devices enable users to scan data and share it with others. Here are a few examples of IoT that can help the logistics and transportation sector increase efficiency.
1. IoT for Warehouse Management
IoT can assist in warehouse management in many ways. Take, for example,
It is a great tool for inventory and asset management. Smart shelves are warehouses that use RFID tags.
b. IoT Wearables can assist warehouse managers in monitoring workers’ health. Wearable devices enable employees to keep track of their health, whereabouts, and how they perform within the facility. DHL’s Advanced Regional Center Singapore has wireless sensors that measure fatigue and can prompt rest breaks as needed. These wearables also send alerts when someone is within range of moving equipment.
c. GPS devices and telematics gadgets allow drivers to track the best route and continually update the ETA. IoT sensors tagged with the goods provide item level visibility. Operation managers have the ability to manage any goods’ condition in a proactive manner.
Smart warehouses are able to draw actionable insight from the data generated via IoT devices. DHL and Amazon are just a few examples of companies that depend on IoT technology for their warehouse management.
2. IoT for Supply Chain Management
The Internet of Things allows you to easily track the location of goods, store them, and then when they will arrive at your destination. IoT is a great tool for managing supply chains in many ways.
IoT devices could be used for tracking goods movement. IoT device can send the location information of goods to be tracked by GPS.
b. Some goods (such as foods or chemicals) need optimal storage conditions. IoT devices can monitor temperature, light intensity or humidity in different areas and set alarms when these thresholds get exceeded. This prevents goods from spoilage and helps to maintain their quality throughout the supply chain.
c. Route tracking and planning can assist in identifying the root cause of delays. This favors contingency plans with alternative routes to speeden the supply chain.
The Internet of Things can optimize supply chain processes. Volvo, Nissan & Decathlon, Dallas Area Rapid Transit – DART (Amazon), and Amazon are just a few examples of companies that use IoT as a tool for managing their supply chains.
3. IoT for Fleet Management
To manage fleets, it takes a lot of effort, time and money. IoT integration can bring fleet operators improved performance and safety standards. Here are some IoT integrations that can be made into fleet management.
a) IoT sensors in vehicles can send automated signals and alerts to fleet management about foreseen problems. These sensors can also relay alerts regarding coolant temperature, engine maintenance, low batteries, and other pertinent information. It is essential to take preventative steps in order to keep vehicles safe over the long term.
b. With IoT it is possible manage vehicles with actionable information. Fleet managers can use sensors to get data that will help them adhere to laws, monitor driving patterns, control vehicle speed, and idling. These insights can be extremely helpful in improving fuel efficiency since driving style and behaviour have an effect on fuel efficacy.
c. Automation is an important benefit of IoT in fleet management. Imagine a vehicle that breaks down mid-trip. An alert is sent to inform the truck’s driver and towing company. This could be a benefit to drivers and fleet managers. It could also send automatic weather warnings to drivers to enable them to reroute so they reach their destination in time.