New Advancements in IoT in Supply Chain
The world of supply chain is getting smarter. The Internet of Things (IoT) is a new frontier in the way we get the products we want to the place we want them.
As companies continue to integrate IoT into their supply chains, they’re finding that it offers many benefits:
- More accurate inventory tracking
- Reduced operating costs through better equipment management
- Improved safety due to better equipment tracking
- Better customer service because of increased efficiency
As a general concept, IoT is when physical devices can be controlled remotely and communicate with each other. In the world of supply chain, that means that warehouses can be fully automated, cargo containers can track themselves on a map as they move, and every level of the supply chain can be streamlined to improve everything from customer experience to efficiency.
Here are just a few ways IoT is making supply chains smarter:
- LED lighting in large warehouses and fulfillment centers allows for intelligent lighting that adjusts based on who’s there and what activity is happening at any given time. This improves productivity and also cuts down on energy waste.
- Sensors in cargo containers allow for real-time tracking of items and delivery times, so businesses can tell when something will arrive before it even leaves its starting point.
- Fully automated warehouses mean there’s no need for labor—you don’t have to worry about hiring workers or managing their schedules. You also don’t have to worry about things like inventory mistakes or work-related injuries or illnesses.
- Tracking inventory: Smart tags can be placed on products to track their location at any time throughout their journey.
- Predicting maintenance: IoT devices can detect wear and tear on equipment before it happens based on variables like temperature or humidity levels.
- Monitoring weather: The IoT allows for real-time monitoring of weather conditions along certain routes or across certain areas that can be used by shipping companies to adjust their routes accordingly.
To summarize
With the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT), businesses in all sectors have been able to make use of cutting-edge technology to streamline operations, increase productivity, and improve customer satisfaction. This also includes the supply chain industry.
IoT plays a huge role in supply chain management, allowing companies to see and understand just how their products are moving through the system. Hence, IoT is also changing the way that these supply chains function and operate for good.