Top 8 Technologies Used in Transportation Management Systems
Having an efficient transport management system is crucial for all companies handling logistics. People ordering packages from all over the world get them at their doorstep without any issues. How?
This is due to technological upgrades implemented in the transportation and logistics sectors. From robotic delivery to reduced costs, seamless operations, and customer satisfaction, transportation management solutions are achieving it all.
Let us focus on the top 8 technologies used to advance transportation management systems.
Top 8 Technologies Transforming Transportation Management Systems
Here is a closer look at the top 8 technologies that are revolutionising transport management in businesses:
Blockchain
Blockchain simplifies the complexities of the supply chain through automation, reducing delays, cutting costs, and preventing fraudulent activities. Its transparent nature enhances security, trust, and traceability throughout the chain.
For instance, if you look at Insanely Good or Pluckk’s marketing, you will see that they use blockchain technology to maintain farm-to-fork transparency.
IoT Integration
IoT (internet of things) enables real-time tracking and monitoring of vehicles, containers, and cargo through sensor integration. The constant exchange of data between devices allows for the utmost transparency in warehouse operations.
The sensors can alert managers about potential issues, inventory stocking, picking and packing orders, and more.
Cloud Computing
Cloud-based transport management solutions offer scalability, accessibility, and cost-efficiency. Businesses can access real-time data from anywhere and collaborate seamlessly with partners.
They can create detailed reports and automate data flow, provide transparency in routes, and permanently control order load status. This reduces the time spent in warehouses, and the fleet can keep moving seamlessly, connecting suppliers and carriers.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
AI helps the TMS system by reducing accidents and enhancing safety by giving real-time information to the driver. ML algorithms analyse vast datasets to optimise routes, load planning, and predictive analytics of factors like:
- Traffic conditions
- Weather
- Potential hazards
- Disruptions in the supply chain
Robotics
Robotics in transport management systems automates repetitive, manual tasks such as data entry, invoice processing, and documentation management. This reduces errors and frees up time, enhancing productivity and efficiency within the workflow.
Advanced robotics can also help transport goods within warehouse premises. They load, unload, pick, and put away products in respective inventory sections.
Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles have revolutionised transportation management solutions by eliminating the need for human drivers. They can operate around the clock, reducing labour costs and increasing asset utilisation.
They also offer enhanced safety features, optimised routing capabilities, and improved fuel efficiency. Moreover, these are e-vehicles, which significantly have less carbon emissions than traditional fleets.
GPS Tracking
The advanced GPS allows the central transportation management system to track the fleet’s real-time location. This enables any quick rerouting needed to avoid supply chain disruption. For instance, if one of the trucks gets into an accident, companies can promptly act when they know the location and time of the accident.
Advanced Analytics and Reporting
Transport management solutions use advanced analytics and reporting to extract actionable insights. The TMS system collects data from various sources, such as IoT sensors, telematics, historical data on supply chains, and more.
These data help them identify areas of weakness, optimise resource utilisation, and make informed decisions based on accuracy.
Final Thoughts
To remain competitive in the logistics business, you must get your hands on an adaptive transportation management system. With Quinta as a trusted partner, you can get TMS solutions that are unique to your business needs.
Our TMS system empowers organisations to streamline operations, reduce costs, increase compliance, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. As a comprehensive warehouse solutions provider, our transport management solution aims to optimise different operations.