The logistics industry faces constant challenges in the efficient management of the transportation of people and products. The need to ensure safety, optimize costs and improve operational efficiency has led to the adoption of innovative technological solutions.
Combining elements such as IoT technologies and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) will transform logistics management.
Challenges in logistics management
Nowadays, safety problems for drivers and passengers have been identified, which are linked to factors such as long working hours, adverse weather conditions and fatigue. In a similar vein, the protection of products being transported due to spoilage, theft and rejections at destination increase operating costs.
Another challenge is operational efficiency, which is complicated by the lack of accurate data and the difficulty of assessing driver performance and the operation in general. Added to this is the lack of integration between different systems, which can cause problems in shipment tracking and inventory management.
Likewise, in a globalized environment such as ours, supply chain management, i.e., coordination and communication between suppliers, carriers and distributors, can be identified as a challenge.
How can technology help?
There are solutions that address the main problems by integrating different technologies. These are hardware and platforms with various functionalities that, combined with data analysis, enable more effective and secure management and simplify decision making.
Some functionalities for transport and logistics
Security
Examples include video recording, data storage and real-time GPS tracking. There are also mobile recorders with collision sensors and interior and exterior cameras that allow continuous monitoring of the vehicle and its occupants. These tools are essential to provide evidence in case of accidents and to ensure safety during the journey.
Driver assistance
The Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) enhances safety through forward collision alerts, blind spot detection and driver behavior analysis. These capabilities enable instant intervention in the event of dangerous behavior, such as fatigue or the use of mobile devices. In turn, they provide a safer environment for both drivers and passengers.
Sensors
The Internet of Things (IoT) application extends management functionalities through sensors that monitor door status, container temperature and vehicle fuel level.
This is crucial to maintain the integrity of goods, especially when transporting perishable or temperature-sensitive products, and to prevent fuel theft.
Analytical and management skills
Once data are obtained from the field, it is essential to have analytical and management tools to make decisions, both now and in the medium term.
Real-time monitoring
This includes live tracking of the position and route of the vehicles, as well as the possibility of two-way communication with the driver in case of emergency or deviations from the planned route.
Data recording and retrieval
It is possible to store video and driving data that facilitates post-event or post-incident investigation and evaluation.
Performance analysis
It consists of a detailed assessment of driver performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) such as fuel consumption, on-time deliveries and driving behavior. This enables more informed management and the implementation of corrective measures.
Route and shift optimization
It is ideal to have tools to plan routes and shifts efficiently, identifying patterns and adjusting operations to maximize efficiency. For example, comparing the planned and actual arrival time of each trip helps managers make informed decisions and improve on-time deliveries.
Alarm management and training
There is the option to configure different types of alarms and generate detailed reports that help identify common problems. This is essential for designing specific training programs and evaluating their effectiveness over time.
What are the benefits of integrating technology for the transportation of people and goods?
First, having advanced systems in place improves people's safety. The combination of ADAS and real-time monitoring reduces the risk of accidents and improves the safety of drivers, passengers and third parties.
Secondly, it improves asset protection, reduces losses and ensures the quality of deliveries. This is linked to the continuous monitoring of door status and temperatures, as the integrity of the goods is ensured.
In turn, these technologies help to optimize costs. Fuel consumption control and early detection of theft allow more efficient management of resources, reducing operating costs.
Finally, decision making is facilitated. The availability of accurate data and detailed analysis facilitates performance evaluation and optimization of operations, improving overall efficiency.
One solution for everything
Modernizing logistics operations based on artificial intelligence, IoT and other technologies is key to remain competitive. In the coming years, this will be the new standard for efficient and sustainable management of transportation lines of all types, benefiting all players in the supply chain and preparing the industry for future challenges.
HikVision, Isbel's technology partner in the development and integration of solutions, offers a robust platform that centralizes different modules and analysis capabilities to address the current challenges of the logistics sector, such as providing greater safety for people and ensuring the quality of deliveries (on time and on budget).
