IoT, or the Internet of Things, is growing in popularity throughout industries, notably transportation. Individual parcel tracking is critical to shipping businesses such as FedEx and UPS. IoT-enabled tracking in the logistics and shipping industries delivers real-time data about trailers, containers, and shipments, allowing businesses to make better decisions. This technology is critical for fleet operators and shipping businesses such as FedEx and UPS.
The benefits and three ways in which logistics and shipping companies are as follows:
1. Fleet tracking at the truck and vehicle level
For fleet firms, the vehicle is the main emphasis. Information about a truck’s location, maintenance, and fuel usage is vital for effective fleet management. Many fleet firms employ vehicle tracking systems using GPS telematics tracking devices and fleet management software to track the whereabouts of each truck in their fleet.
Adding a HOS Elog app for the ELD mandate will result in a fleet management system that is ELD-compliant.
2. Asset tracking at the trailer or container level
Companies that send products rather than simply convey them may require the capacity to track cargo at the container or trailer level. A wireless, battery-powered GPS telematics device is added to the containers to achieve this.
Trailers or containers are often left unattended at job sites or docking ports for days at a time, which makes them a prime target and the most vulnerable to cargo theft. Providing a telematics device to a trailer or container enables visibility of the asset as well as quick detection of any unauthorized motion, vibration, or activity.
3. Parcel/package-level tracking
Businesses want a hybrid tracking system that employs GPS, GSM, WIFI, and Bluetooth IoT asset tags to track shipments at the package level. Attaching these tags to each shipment gives visibility and control by displaying pickup and drop-off timings, the last location, and the date and time. The IoT asset tags require a gateway, which can be a telematics device installed on the trailer or container or a connected connection to the vehicle. The second option provides a comprehensive tracking system with visibility at all stages of the shipping process, including GPS position, ELD, fleet dashcams, parcel monitoring, and controlling temperatures for temperature-sensitive goods.
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How does the IoT connection help solve fleet management issues?
1. Faster Real-time Tracking and Visibility
IoT sensors installed in cargo containers give real-time information such as location, temperature, and humidity. Fleet managers may monitor the whole cargo process remotely, giving them greater control and insight over their assets. With today’s IoT technology, logistics organizations can track and monitor each piece of equipment and put it online, providing a comprehensive real-time picture of their whole operation.
2. Enhanced Route Optimization
Fleet managers may use IoT-powered analytics to optimise routes in real time. Factors like traffic congestion, weather conditions, and closures to traffic may be dynamically included, allowing for more effective route planning and reduced fuel usage.
3. Predictive Maintenance
IoT-enabled devices can track the health of cars and equipment in real time. By gathering data on engine performance, tyre pressure, and other vital metrics, predictive maintenance plans may be developed, avoiding unexpected breakdowns and optimising fleet operations.
Advantages of IoT connection for fleet management
1. Temperature Control for Temperature-sensitive Goods
Real-time temperature and humidity monitoring guarantees that perishable commodities remain within the required temperature range during transit, reducing the risk of deterioration. A driver-connected system enables the driver to respond immediately once a temperature deviation is noticed.
2. Geofence Alerts
GPS technology enables geofence notifications to be sent when a cargo deviates from its planned route or enters prohibited zones, allowing for real-time remedial measures.
3. Data-Driven Decision Making
IoT sensors’ comprehensive data analytics help to optimize transit routes and protocols, resulting in cost savings and simplified logistical operations.
Conclusion
IoT asset tracking is about more than simply keeping track of your assets; it’s about maximizing the potential of your resources and ensuring they perform as efficiently and productively as possible.
