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Editor's Note: Take a look at our featured best practice, Landed Cost Calculator for Australian Imports (Excel workbook). This landed cost calculator is an advanced Microsoft Excel ? spreadsheet that can be used to calculate the total landed cost of importing goods into Australia No need to waste time reinventing the wheel this spreadsheet has evolved from many years of practical use and ongoing development by a [read more]
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The supply chain is one of the most essential processes for our current way of living as a civilization. As consumers and business owners we depend on the transport of products. More importantly, we also depend on the quality and speed of said transport.
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we all got a peek at the chaos that might ensue if the flow of logistics and transportation would be affected even by a little. And while this was just a momentary situation, it goes to show just how much we depend on accurate logistics and transportation systems.
Luckily, due to modern technologies, we can make sure that hiccups like these are easily solved and even anticipated. Nowadays, fleet companies use smart tracking devices and integrated systems that completely transform the supply chain by offering a better understanding of how things interconnect.
In this article, we will take a better look at how state of the art tracking systems can make logistics management easier.
Nowadays, trucking companies install a wide range of devices that follow ELD compliance rules and regulations. These devices use IoT systems to stay interconnected with the main database in order to send and receive real-time data on various aspects such as delivery progress, state of the route, accidents, traffic jams, and so on.
This way, the fleet manager and other interested parties can keep track of the delivery process but can also adjust various elements to speed the delivery and optimize the route. In addition, if a route management system is included in the mix, drivers may receive clear instructions as to which route to take, where to go first, and how to drive in order to optimize delivery and reduce time spent on the road.
Besides tracking, devices like smart dashboard cameras can be used to keep the truck out of trouble and prevent reckless driving. They do so by monitoring and analyzing both the driver’s behavior and traffic conditions (such as weather, driving pattern, other participants, and more). As a result, there are fewer accidents caused by distractions or fatigue. This means better insurance premiums, fewer costs in repairs, and safer roads.
There are lots of things that can go wrong in the supply chain and every bump in the road can translate into delayed deliveries or damaged goods. Such situations can create friction with the customers, which can make them change suppliers.
However, if you use smart tracking devices and an efficient route optimization software solution, it will become easier to predict and prevent any problems. This also means fewer delays, less damage on the road, and customers who feel they can rely on their supplier. Moreover, if you share the tracking information with the customers, they will be able to follow their delivery which increases their trust in your company’s capacity to keep its promises.
So, by implementing smart solutions you ensure the loyalty of your customers and open the door for new business opportunities.
The digital transformation of businesses started a long time ago but nowadays it’s close to impossible to last in a competitive market without it. The supply chain system is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive industries in the world, and smart technology helps you get a competitive advantage.
In addition, the use of intelligent devices and software tools helps reduce costs, increase customer retention and loyalty, and keep the roads safer for everyone. Moreover, we are only a few years away from trucks that can drive by themselves, so it helps to be prepared when it comes to the implementation of new technologies.
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