The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is  ideal for logistics and transportation companies because this is an industry that relies on many physical “things” that are literally in motion all the time. All of these things can be connected through sensors and ultimately the internet to uncover amazing insights into processes allowing companies to improve their efficiency, streamline operations and solve issues quicker which at the end of the day leads to reduced shipping costs and faster delivery times – benefiting the end customer.

IoT for logistics and transportation, an industry that is already implementing connected systems and will continue to do so at a rapid pace over the next few years.

Application of IIoT in logistic

U.K. food distributor JJ Food Service is one of company integrating IIoT in logistic. The London-based company had to depend on its drivers to record temperatures inside their vehicles each time they made deliveries to ensure that product temperatures complied with regulations. The company, whose eight distribution centers serve more than 30,000 businesses, went live on an automated IoT logistics system that monitors the temperature of goods carried in delivery vehicles. Now Bluetooth-enabled sensors in each refrigerated truck send temperature readings to an app on the driver’s IoT-connected smartphone. Drivers and dispatchers are alerted if temperatures fall below certain levels. The company is using IoT logistics technology to make its business processes more efficient and intelligent and improve its service offerings. Moreover in terms of legal compliance, customer service, recordkeeping, stock reconciliation, everything is happening behind the scenes without the drivers or delivery person worrying about it.

Benefits when the logistic industry embraces IIoT

1. Warehousing & Inventory – Warehouses of course contain “things”, which need to be counted, moved, and ultimately transported to their destination. IoT-based robotic systems instead rely on sensors and data to grab items efficiently and accurately. The falling costs of sensors such as RFID devices is making widespread monitoring of items at the pallet or individual item level much more feasible.
2. Temperature and humidity sensorscan also be in place within the warehouse. If a heat wave strikes for example, sensors would let managers know when items are at risk from warping, and air conditioning could be automatically adjusted. Humidity levels can be especially damaging for electronics, and IoT sensors can spot improper packaging or potentially broken HVAC equipment that needs to be addressed quickly.
3. Safety Implications -There are several safety gains that companies can realize with IoT implementation throughout the supply chain. One area of significant safety concern is with the usage of forklifts which are the cause of 1 in 6 workplace fatalities.  While much improvement could be realized with better training, IoT can provide forklift drivers with several improvements. For example, sensors could be combined with cameras to allow forklifts to actively scan for hard-to-see objects that might cause collisions.
4. Sensors could also help managers totrack the contents of truckload shipments, and to spot items that are restricted and should not travel together. Laptop computers and strong magnets for example, or chemicals that can be combustible. Armed with all of the IoT data, companies can create various rules that govern the shipping of materials in order to increase safety for drivers, pickers, and the end customers.
5. Cost Reductions and Revenue Gains– The cost reductions that are associated with IIoT for logistics come throughout the process. Human labor costs can be reduced significantly when automated order picking and processing are put in place with IIoT. Within the warehouse, accurate IIoT can prevent machines from going off track and possibly disrupting other machines and operations in the chain. Delays can mean missed shipping deadlines and canceled orders, which further raises overall costs.

Are you looking to improve the efficiency of your supply chain. Learn how Anglo African team can help you to implement an IIoT strategy for you logistic needs. The Anglo African team is fully committed to helping you in achieving your industrial new vision to drive operations to the fullest potential. For specific queries, get in touch with Navin by calling on: 2331636 or via e-mail at navin.mautbar@infosystems.mu .