As we enter 2024, the logistics and supply chain industry faces a number of challenges that demand innovative solutions. Ongoing global supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have thrown the sector into crisis. Major vulnerabilities are highlighted in lean and just-in-time inventory management systems, prompting a reevaluation of supply chain resilience. Sustainability concerns are also taking center stage, with increased emphasis on environmentally friendly practices and the need for greener transportation options.
Moving into 2024, the logistics sector is aiming to be leaner, cleaner, and more flexible. Fortunately, technological advancements are providing a platform from which the sector can reinvent itself. Join us as we look at the logistics sector’s vision for 2024, and the six key technologies that will bring businesses closer to their ideal operating model.Â
Where is Logistics Going in 2024?
Transforming from the cumbersome operational models of the past is a major priority for the logistics sector, and with this in mind, there are key initiatives that will differentiate between companies that thrive and grow, and those that will become uncompetitive and redundant.Â
Carbon-Light Supply Chains
One significant change in the industry is the adoption of carbon-light supply chains. With an increasing global emphasis on environmental sustainability, businesses are recognizing the need to minimize carbon emissions and reduce their overall environmental impact. Supply chain is responsible for a large proportion of any company’s carbon footprint, and there is a sharp focus on this area to bring businesses in line with emissions requirements.Â
For example, major retail giants like Amazon and Walmart are investing heavily in electric and hybrid vehicle fleets for transportation, significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, companies across the supply chain are leveraging smart sensors to optimize storage conditions, minimizing waste and environmental impact.Â
Asset-Light Logistics
Another pivotal trend is the move towards asset-light logistics. In this model, businesses minimize their ownership of physical assets such as trucks or distribution centers and instead focus on managing and coordinating the flow of goods and information. Without the constraints associated with owning and maintaining physical assets, they can achieve unparalleled scalability and flexibility.Â
An excellent example of this trend is demonstrated by tech-driven companies like Uber Freight, which acts as an intermediary connecting shippers and carriers through digital platforms, showcasing the adaptability of the asset-light model to rapidly changing market conditions.
Elastic Logistics
Complementing the shift to asset-light models is the concept of elastic logistics. The dynamics of market demand are ever-changing, and technology-driven logistics solutions are enabling businesses to dynamically scale their operations based on fluctuating demand. Elastic logistics requires the perfect coordination of technology, the right supply chain operations, and agile human resources.Â
A prime example of elastic logistics in action is demonstrated by industry giant Amazon. During peak seasons like Black Friday or holiday periods, Amazon dynamically scales up its operations by hiring temporary staff, optimizing distribution networks, and strategically placing inventory in fulfillment centers. This responsiveness ensures that logistics operations remain finely tuned to market changes.
Last-Mile Delivery
In addition to these trends, a critical focus in 2024 is the integration of technologies for last-mile delivery. As consumer preferences evolve and e-commerce continues to grow, businesses are investing in innovative solutions and technologies to make the last leg of the journey as efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly as possible. This involves deploying advanced route optimization algorithms, leveraging real-time data for efficient delivery planning, and exploring alternative delivery methods, including autonomous vehicles and drones.Â
For example, companies like DHL are exploring autonomous delivery robots to enhance last-mile logistics in urban areas. These robots, equipped with advanced route optimization algorithms, navigate through city streets to deliver packages efficiently.Â
6 Trending Technologies for Logistics in 2024
The logistics industry has far to go to reach the levels of efficiency, scalability, and adaptability that will keep companies competitive in 2024 and beyond. The implementation of cutting-edge technologies will be the (emissions-free) fuel that will catalyze vision into action. Here are six of the major technologies that will continue to change the face of logistics in 2024. Â
1. Generative AI in Logistics
Generative AI involves algorithms that generate new and meaningful data based on patterns and information from existing datasets. In logistics, generative AI is instrumental in optimizing route planning, scheduling, and enhancing predictive analytics for precise demand forecasting. By analyzing historical delivery data, the system generates optimized routes that factor in traffic conditions, road closures, and real-time events.Â
Generative AI relies heavily on effective location services to generate real-time geospatial data. These Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) typically rely on various technologies such as GPS (Global Positioning System), RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification), and Wi-Fi, to provide accurate and up-to-the-minute location data.
RTLS enhances the model's ability to produce contextually relevant and location-aware outputs, ranging from location-specific recommendations to geospatially informed creative content (such as geographical features, local landmarks, cultural elements, or other location-specific attributes).
2. Cloud-Based Tech Solutions
Cloud-based solutions involving the delivery of computing services, including storage, processing, and analytics, over the Internet are becoming increasingly critical for companies trying to implement more agile supply chains. In logistics, these solutions are crucial for real-time location tracking, visibility, and collaborative data sharing. Cloud-based solutions in logistics bring together different elements of the supply chain, offering a centralized platform for real-time data exchange, analytics, and decision-making.Â
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a prime example of cloud-based solutions in logistics. AWS provides scalable and flexible cloud infrastructure that supports real-time location tracking, data analytics, and collaborative data sharing across the vast Amazon supply chain.Â
3. Robotics and Automation in Warehousing
Robotics and automation in warehousing involve the use of machines, such as robotic arms and autonomous vehicles, to perform tasks traditionally carried out by human workers. Location sensors are used to provide real-time data on the placement and movement of goods, and this data is then used by robotic machinery to execute their tasks. For example, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) within a warehouse receive information from RTLSs and use this to navigate through predefined routes, ensuring efficient transportation of goods.Â
Alibaba's Cainiao Smart Logistics Network is revolutionizing warehousing with robotics. Their automated warehouses use robotic arms and conveyor belts to pick and pack items efficiently.Â
4. Augmented Reality (AR) Applications in Logistics
AR overlays digital information, such as images, text, or 3D models, onto the real-world environment that a user sees. In logistics, particularly in warehouse operations, AR is applied to optimize tasks like order picking, packing processes, and training programs for logistics employees. Using highly efficient RTLS, AR systems can provide step-by-step guidance through the warehouse and display critical information about stock, enabling employees to navigate their environment and make decisions quickly and efficiently.
For example, DHL warehouse employees wear AR glasses that are equipped with cameras and sensors to capture the real-world environment. This digital information, including visual cues, such as arrows or highlighted paths, is overlaid onto their field of vision in real-time directing them to the exact location of items within the warehouse.
5. Data Analytics
Data analytics involves the use of algorithms and statistical techniques to analyze large sets of data for insights and decision-making. In logistics, data analytics is crucial for real-time monitoring of assets, predictive maintenance algorithms, and location-based analytics. These analytics make heavy use of data generated from RTLS that provide real-time geospatial data about products, assets, and people. This data is integral for monitoring the movement of assets, optimizing routes, and assessing the impact of location-specific factors on overall logistics operations.
FedEx, for example, uses data analytics for real-time monitoring of assets through its SenseAware platform. This platform collects and analyzes data from shipments, providing real-time insights into the movement of packages. This analysis is used to make decisions about their operating models.Â
6. Autonomous Vehicles and Drones
Autonomous vehicles and drones are unmanned technologies capable of performing tasks, such as transportation or delivery, without direct human intervention. They are most often used for last-mile delivery, transporting packages directly from distribution centers to customers' doorsteps. This can be particularly beneficial in urban areas, reducing delivery times and costs. Drones and AVs are also used in warehouses for tasks such as inventory management, stocktaking, and material handling.Â
RTLSs are used to provide real-time location data that inform precise navigation and coordination instructions, allowing these technologies to navigate through dynamic environments, avoid obstacles, and optimize routes for efficient transportation and delivery.Â
Walmart is experimenting with autonomous vehicles for goods transportation. They are testing self-driving trucks that can optimize routes based on real-time traffic conditions, reducing fuel consumption and delivery times. Drones are also being employed for last-mile deliveries, enhancing delivery speed and reducing the environmental impact of traditional transportation methods.
Start at the Beginning. Start with Deeyook
While you may need to prioritize, there’s no need to choose - these technologies work together to maximize supply chain functioning and create the optimal logistics operating model. There is a clear starting point, however. All of these technologies are dependent on real-time and accurate geospatial data to function effectively.
Ensuring that you have the best RTLS in place is a fundamental base on which to introduce other technologies into your supply chain and warehouse. Start 2024 off by making sure you are using the best in real-time tracking technology. Deeyook uses cutting-edge technology to ensure you can locate everything, anywhere, anytime. Revolutionize location tracking in your company with Deeyook’s next-generation, real-time solution that will lay the foundation for the integration of all 2024’s top technologies.