Barcelona, October 23, 2020.- The present of transport and logistics companies, within any supply chain, is technology to gain competitiveness, efficiency and security. We need to control all sources of information, all types of data, in any format. And then, interpret the large volume of figures and data to extract business decisions, day by day. Here is an Information Age report on different success stories in the implementation of artifical intelligence in supply chain companies:
“The global logistics industry is expected to increase to a value of $3,215 billion by 2021,” said Philip Ashton, CEO of 7bridges. “AI solutions in transport and logistics (T&L) are part of this growth, and will be essential for meeting consumers’ increasingly high expectations.
This article will delve into the many use cases that AI and automation has within the transport and logistics sector at present and going forward.
One kind of AI implementation that has been leveraged within the sector is a way to efficiently read masses of various data types, known as Cognitive Machine Reading.
Asheesh Mehra, group CEO of Antworks, explained: “The Covid-19 pandemic has given rise to a period of difficulty and uncertainty within the logistics and transport industry. Travel and operational restrictions have caused up to 75% of companies to experience significant disruptions to their supply chain operations. However, for those companies that have taken action to digitalise, automation has played a critical role in supporting and maintaining business as usual for processes such as logistics planning and customer billing.
“Cognitive Machine Reading (CMR)-based automation tools are reducing the arduous and time-consuming manual tasks traditionally associated with logistics planning. CMR does this by analysing, extracting and processing both structured and unstructured data formats, to quickly generate highly accurate reports for forecasting and follow-through operations.
“CMR is also transforming how companies process their billing mechanisms, another activity that is typically manually intensive. An example is a global transport and logistics company that managed to increase the accuracy of their billing procedures by up to 80% through CMR automation and reduced processing times by 63%.”
AIoT
A second kind of technology that has been disrupting the transport and logistics sector combines AI with the Internet of Things (IoT).
“The fast inroads made by emerging and new technologies have left transport and logistics companies with a lot of catching up to do,” said Anshuman Singh, vice-president and head of consulting, Europe at Mindtree. “In 2019, we saw an increase in an infusion of IoT into existing scenarios – with most of the challenges around adding IoT/sensor capabilities and enabling intelligence on the edge being resolved under AIoT.
“While the original purpose behind enabling these capabilities may have been to do with early prediction of faults or optimising usage patterns for efficiency, the large volume of data now available from these devices/sensors has opened up new avenues of exploration and optimisation.”
Singh went on to explain that progression occurred in the following three stages:
- Enabling core capabilities on the edge – these included basic sensor development, integration with available devices.
- Collecting the data generated from these sensors and storing them in a structured form on a central data store or data lake – typically on the cloud.
- Realising the synergy between AI/ML and IoT and combining them together into AIoT.
“Focus in this area has also been evolving along with the core technology itself – shifting towards applications of AIoT – away from initial device capabilities/integration. While IoT provided access to a large base of information, AI has enabled the creation of intelligent and energy efficient freight systems, enabling us to excel in energy sustainability, while in pursuit of our goal for greater supply chain orchestration.”
AI in aviation
Bhanu Choudhrie, executive director at C&C Alpha Group, explained how AI has, and can continue to assist operations within aviation, an industry that was particularly impacted by the pandemic due to demand plummeting.
“AI technologies have already been widely adopted across the air transport industry,” said Choudhrie. “From facial recognition at airport passport security to baggage check-in and remote aircraft monitoring, for years these innovations have been streamlining processes, both for operators and customers. However, AI has a much greater potential beyond these current applications.
“AI can play a pivotal role in revolutionising the aviation industry and Alpha Aviation Group is already working closely with both regulators and airlines to develop its potential in supporting the efficiency of air transport and future pilot pools.
“AI and machine learning algorithms excel at recognising patterns and are extremely efficient at collating data from the process of training cadets. As most flight simulators are already equipped with sensors that generate considerable amounts of data, this resource can now be used to assess pilot competency from the onset of training.
“Powerful AI and machine learning systems can analyse hundreds of flight parameters and sort through thousands of hours of simulator data to produce findings that a human coach wouldn’t have been able to determine. For example, AI programmes can evaluate a pilot’s ability as they execute key manoeuvres and create a comprehensive assessment of a cadet’s strengths and weaknesses based on real-time data.”
Supply chain management
A major aspect of transport and logistics operations is managing supply chains, and John Malpass, retail consultancy practice lead EMEA at Teradata, provided insight into how this area can benefit from AI.
“AI presents one of the biggest and most promising technological advancement opportunities facing the logistics and transport industry, not just in terms of robotics to replace manual tasks, but in the way we think about and manage the entire supply chain,” said Malpass. “Using AI to simply improve existing processes will, however, limit the potential value it can deliver. The technology really proves its worth when we use it to transform ways of working and business processes.
“Operating at the epicenter of this transformative change with AI is data. Integrating disparate data from the end to end supply chain and orchestrating it through automated analytics capabilities will enable new insights based approaches to optimise and operate the supply chain. Approaches which will allow users to think holistically about how the supply chain is managed in ways they have never been able to before.
“Using the combination of integrated data and predictive real-time automation, users can renovate and rethink outdated, manually intensive business processes. If implemented correctly, artificial intelligence will introduce new game changing capabilities which will drive a whole new way of working across the logistics and transport sectors delivering transformational and lasting change.”
Lastly, AI is capable of monitoring weather conditions in order to help find ways round coinciding problems, according to Peter Van Merode, vice-president, 3PL industry strategy at Blue Yonder.
He explained: “AI can play a key role in identifying potential transport and logistics disruptions, using information such as weather and expiration date of products in combination with machine learning (ML) to minimise problems, or avoid them altogether.
“For example, if AI spots that rough seas might potentially lead to a port being closed, ML can then be used to help retailers navigate the problem by advising another route to take. This is crucial as a delay to a boatful of vegetables arriving could lead to them having a shorter shelf life, or even perishing before they reach the store.
“Avoiding these kinds of logistical problems helps with efficiency while also dramatically cutting waste, ultimately helping retailers to increase profits.”
Transportation and Logistics Software
- Volocopter And DB Schenker Announce First Blueprint For VoloDrone Operations
Barcelona, July 27, 2021.- Industry Europe has published this interesting initiative by DB Schenker with a large drone for logistics operations. All an innovation whose development we will see shortly, at the same time, that the reaction of its competitors. - Sustainable logistics: Walmart will reduce CO2 emissions from the transport fleets from its suppliers
Barcelona, July 20, 2021.- Walmart, the American supermework chain, has launched an initiative in its supply chain to reduce CO2 emissions from the transport fleets of its suppliers. A sustainable project that perhaps believes trend, both in the United States, and in other regions. Supplychaindive has published the details of this boost to the environment: - After 100 days withheld: Ever Given, ship that blocked Suez Canal, sets sail after deal signed
Barcelona, July 13, 2021.- AndSoft Social Media reported the entire operation to release the Ever Given ship. It was world news in all countries because it affected foreign trade, supply chains, millions of losses, increases in logistics prices, fines, etc. However, the ship Ever Given was held in the Suez Canal until her responsibilities were … - Prices to ship containers from Asia to the U.S. and Europe are rising at a historic pace as cargo owners
Barcelona, July 6, 2021.- Wall Street Journal has published an analysis on the international prices of the SUPPLY CHAIN in maritime transport. The data, in the Post Covid19 era, are the following: - European Partnership to make Zero-Emission Waterborne Transport a reality before 2050
Barcelona, June 29, 2021.- Cyprus Shipping News has published the following information about the carbon footprint of maritime transport and the European plans to reduce it to 0 from 2050: - The importance of tracking deliveries for a purchase in constant digital transformation
Barcelona, June 22, 2021.- Moving a finger, touching a screen of a computer device, buying a product and receiving the date on which you will receive it at home seems magical. But today e-commerce is a success thanks to logistics professionals and professionals in information management software companies. Tracking deliviries is another software “miracle” with … - Keys 2021: The Situation of Freight Transport in South Africa
Barcelona, June 15, 2021.- The structural problems of freight transport are similar, regardless of the country. Warehousing Logistics International magazine has published a report on transport in South Africa and some of its backlogs or improvements are well known in Europe. - Wall Street Journal: Why the global chip shortage is hard to overcome
Barcelona, June 8, 2021.- - Competitive advantages of an integrated logistics management
Barcelona, June 1, 2021.- The company JCTrans has carried out an analysis on the strategic objectives of integrated logistics management. A different vision of such a complex situation. - USA: Scarcity of pallets and large increase in prices throughout 2021
Barcelona, May 25, 2021.- The American economy has a shortage of pallets and their prices have increased considerably. This is how The LoadStar magazine has published it, which explains the details of this negative situation for exporters: - Freight train trips between China and Europe soared 70 percent on a yearly basis to 3,345 rides in the first quarter of this year
Barcelona, May 18, 2021.- New Silkroad Discovery has reported in detail the evolution of freight traffic in rail transport between Europe and China in recent weeks. These are the data: - Transport + Drone: Test with loads of 100 kg
Barcelona, May 11, 2021.- Different transport and logistics companies continue to carry out tests to verify the viability of the drone as a tool for the last mile. Perhaps the drone, whatever its size and autonomy, is not useful in any urban or rural area. However, in certain geographical circumstances it can become an efficient …Continue reading Transport + Drone: Test with loads of 100 kg
- Business to business trade activity grew by 10% in the first quarter of 2021, but a recent surge in order volumes is creating fresh challenges for suppliers
Barcelona, May 4, 2021.- Manufacturing & Logistics IT Magazine has published an analysis with the latest short-term data on the world movement of goods. Figures that show the trend in the coming months for the vast majority of economies and their supply chains. - Big data presents supply chain and warehouse managers with an unprecedented opportunity to acquire real-time visibility of goods in transit and part of inventory
Barcelona, April 27, 2021.- The information of the supply chain in data must be processed, understood, valued and extracted from business decisions. Otherwise, having millions of data every minute is a waste of time and resources. Below, SnapFulfil CEO Tony Dobson reflects on Big Data and Logistics. - Russian airship manufacturer Aerosmena is to launch its lenticular-shaped 600 tonne payload airship in 2024
Barcelona, April 20, 2021.- According to The Aviation Industry Hub, the aircraft has been designed to perform transport and logistics tasks regardless of ground infrastructure with no need for ports, roads, waterways, airports, airfields, railways, hangars or runways. Aerosmena said the “flying saucer” design will make the airship easier to manoeuvre and landing in a … - Post-pandemic reflection: Out-of-stock stores in cities?
Barcelona, April 13, 2021.- Manufacturing Logistics IT magazine has considered what might happen if the supply chain changes in city stores. From the experience and how the stores worked in 2020, short-term changes and improvements can be drawn. - Import / export segmentation between China and Europe, supply chains and modes of transport
Barcelona, April 6, 2021.- IHS Markit has published extraordinary information on supply chains between Europe and China. Very useful data, graphs and valuations to know the export potential of China, which may already be the world’s leading economic power, ahead of the USA. - 77% of surveyed manufacturers have implemented an IIoT solution, with 20% more planning to do so
Barcelona, March 25, 2021.– According to Manufacturing & Logistics IT magazine, the IoT is dominating today’s markets. People spend more than $100 billion a year on smart home devices, but commercial adoption is even more impressive. The industrial IoT (IIoT) not only supports modern manufacturing, but also drives it. - Urgent Video Tutorial on Lean Six Sigma
Barcelona, March 14, 2021.- - How do I digitize my transportation company ?>>>> Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Barcelona, March 11, 2021.- The Logistics Management magazine has published an analysis on the reasons that a transport company has to hire a TMS: Focused on creating efficiencies, improving supply chain visibility, managing costs, and providing higher levels of customer service, a growing number of shippers continue to invest in transportation management systems (TMS) every year. - Chaine du froid connectée : le défi de la synergie des solutions
Toulouse, le 9 mars 2021.- Conscient des enjeux actuels du transport et de la logistique, le groupe Dispam, spécialiste français du transport frigorifique, a fait confiance à AndSoft pour repenser complètement ses procédures, et faire de la traçabilité intégrale des marchandises l’un des piliers de ses standards économiques. - Maersk announced it plans to launch the world’s first carbon-neutral liner vessel in 2023, which will have a methanol engine
Barcelona, March 4, 2021.- What consequence does decarbonisation have for maritime transport prices? The English television BBC has published a report focusing on the Danish company Maersk and its immediate plans to abandon fossil fuels. - The electrification of mobility accelerates and rushes the first official deadlines
Barcelona, March 3, 2021.- Bloomberg has published a report on the adoption of electric motors in different modes of transport, including by country: Looking beyond passenger cars, several ‘killer apps’ are emerging for electrification in the 2020s. Two- and three-wheeled vehicles (scooters, mopeds, motorcycles, tuktuks and rickshaws) and municipal buses are already going electric quickly …Continue reading The electrification of mobility accelerates and rushes the first official deadlines
- Logistics Management: The #logistics keys to face the uncertainties of the different economic sectors
Barcelona, February 24, 2024.- The Logistics Management magazine has published a great analysis on the challenges that logistics professionals face in the coming months. Here is a summary: - FitchRatings: Different modes of transport in Europe will recover at unique rates
Barcelona February 13, 2021.- According to FitchRatings, the recovery of the different modes of freight transport (road, rail, air and maritime) will follow a different rhythm. Air traffic is most affected by travel restrictions and will take until 2024 to recover to 2019 levels, putting pressure on airlines and airports. Although these sectors will improve …Continue reading FitchRatings: Different modes of transport in Europe will recover at unique rates
- Forbes: Advantages of Integrating Artificial Intelligence with Business Management Software
Barcelona, February 4, 2021.- The economic magazine Forbes has published an analysis by David A. Teich, an expert in AI, about the benefits of implementing artificial intelligence solutions with current solutions to manage the information of any type of company. For example, in the administration of commercial contracts. - Innovation of an intermodal rail solution for Kraft Heinz products in Europe
Barcelona, January 24, 2021.- The current situation invites us to seek new logistics solutions to gain efficiency. For this reason, we liked reading this case study about the manufacturer Kraft Heinz. - The British Ports Association: “The UK is definitely leaving the EU’s Customs Union and Single Market which means major changes for cross border trade”
Barcelona, January 14, 2021.- Merchandise trade between the UK and the EU will change significantly from the next few months. Public Administrations and private carriers’ employers haven´t yet calculated the true impact of Brexit. But, without a doubt, carriers and supply chains with the UK will undergo a change in processes, taxes, routes, etc., the … - Amazon is buying 11 used Boeing 767-300 jets from Delta and WestJet, the first time it has bought rather than leased
Barcelona, January 10, 2021.- Amazon has decided to buy planes, rather than rent them, taking advantage of the economic crisis of COVID-19 for airlines. Amazon continues its career to be one more logistics operator, along with traditional brands such as Fedex and UPS, as we already reported here four years ago. - Gartner: IT RoadMap for #Cibersecurity
Barcelona, January 4, 2021.- A world in full digital transformation of companies and homes needs competitive, demanding and efficient cybersecurity protocols. The Gartner Technology Consultant certifies this with this analysis and the following keys: “Faced with a range of obstacles, from slowing budget growth to dissatisfied boards, business and security leaders are being challenged to … - Lockdown of Thousands of Truckers in Dover: Heroes, resilience
Barcelona, December 24, 2020.- The news agency Reuters has published the following information about the thousands of trucks trapped in Dover, on the border between France and the UK. Reuters: Stanislaw Olbrich, a 55-year-old truck driver stranded 24 miles north of Dover after much of the world shut borders to Britain, just wants to get …Continue reading Lockdown of Thousands of Truckers in Dover: Heroes, resilience
- 10 recommendations to automate your warehouse, today: Technological and human
Barcelona, December 14, 2020.- Technological solutions are the first step of any automation in the supply chain and more specifically, in a warehouse.However, there are more variables to manage and plan. Above all, with the training and added value of each professional involved. Here we read the recommendations of John Rosenberger, Director of iWAREHOUSE GATEWAY and Global …Continue reading 10 recommendations to automate your warehouse, today: Technological and human
- Maritime transport between Asia and Europe increases its prices by 25%
Barcelona, December 4, 2020.- Despite the global economic recession, maritime traffic has started to increase its prices, at least between Asia and Europe. This has been reported by the publication Splas247.com: As analysts have been predicting, spot rates on the Asia-Europe container tradelane shot up today, playing belated catch-up with the booming transpacific. - Let’s talk about the management of emotions in the #transportation and #logistics sector
Barcelona, November 25, 2020.- It is a good time to consider how emotions are managed today by the managers of transportation and logistics companies, within a global pandemic. - As the logistics arm of Alibaba’s ecosystem, Cainiao has introduced several cutting-edge technologies throughout its network
Barcelona, November 15, 2020.- Alibaba, together with Amazon, is one of the technological giants of electronic commerce, today and tomorrow. Its logistics innovations are of interest because they advance future processes in transportation and the supply chain. The Economist has published the following report on the logistics operator Alibaba. - Asia and the Pacific countries have made great efforts to maintain their ports operational while protecting transport and port workers
Barcelona, November 8, 2020.- The maritime transport of goods must recover the previous traffic and routes of the stoppage of world supply and demand during last spring. And to check if the current uncertainty translates into a new global confinement of consumers at home in the coming weeks until the arrival of an efficient vaccine … - Success stories of the implementation of artificial intelligence in #logistics, #transportation, #supplychain
Barcelona, October 23, 2020.- The present of transport and logistics companies, within any supply chain, is technology to gain competitiveness, efficiency and security. We need to control all sources of information, all types of data, in any format. And then, interpret the large volume of figures and data to extract business decisions, day by day. … - #Coronavirus #EU: Commission lists key steps for effective vaccination strategies and vaccines deployment
Barcelona, October 15, 2020.- Today…we aren´t going to talk about transport, logistics, software, technological solutions…The uncertainty of the global Covid19 pandemic is so decisive for urban mobility and the transport of goods between countries that today We will talk about the desired solution to Covid19. The European Commission today reported on the strategy for future … - IRU: #COVID-19 border restrictions: lessons to learn
Barcelona, October 7, 2020.- The IRU has highlighted the situation of the borders for the transport of goods, as a consequence of the quarantines between different countries. That is to say, with the pandemic still at its peak in some parts of the world, and with fears of a second wave in others, unilateral border …Continue reading IRU: #COVID-19 border restrictions: lessons to learn
- #Covid19: Estimated 18% average decline in annual turnover for goods transported by road
Barcelona, September 24, 2020.- The global pandemic of the Coronavirus Covid19 remains, increases its expansion in many countries and does not have a near end. Its economic consequences are unprecedented in the last 100 years. However, we have to learn to live with this situation and conjuncture. The transport and logistics sector is one of …
