Autonomous Driving and Logistics: The Effects
Even you are not an ardent follower of new technical advancements there is still a good chance that you have heard about the concept of autonomous vehicles. In recent times, these have received a lot of attention in the technology world as big players like Google and Apple have started taking a keen interest in making it a reality. With constant changes in the global markets, new and unconventional ideas are being discussed and thought about and not just in a hypothetical sense.
Machines that can drive themselves are soon to become a reality in sea, land and air cargo delivery. This technology is set to change the dynamics of how goods are shipped over long distances. As you can anticipate, this change will be a ground-breaking advancement. It will probably change the processes currently associated with warehousing, supply chain management and several other critical features of logistics.
Different Types of Autonomous Transport
Trucks
Automated trucks replacing truck drivers have been a part of the future plans of the logistics industry in India for several years now. This shift is expected to bring about drastic changes in the logistics and freight transportation world. These labor-saving vehicles will adapt fast and help companies in cutting big costs. However, the industry is not just looking at individual automated trucks but entire convoys which will be connected to each other through GPS, sensors, Wi-Fi and cameras.
Cargo Ships
The automation of cargo ships will be an important advancement in long distance movement of goods. One of the best advantages of this will be the drastic reduction in costs. Every vessel travelling on water needs at least 20 personnel who require food, housing, and payment. A self-driving vessel will do away the costs of maintaining personnel on the ship, or in any case certainly cause a reduction. These ships will redefine the shipping as well as the logistics industry and bring down container shipping rates.
Fork Lifts
In warehouses too, the self-driven concept will be utilized. Forklifts that work themselves will be a much more efficient way to carry out receiving and putting away goods. This will increase productivity and also allow the collection of accurate data about the size of the load that was picked and stocked, the location etc.
Anticipated Benefits of Self Driving Vehicles:
- The introduction of vehicles that drive themselves will help the logistics industry do away with some of the current issues that it is facing. For instance, the technology will make transportation much more efficient and speedy.
- In countries such as India, the unavailability of sufficient infrastructure is a major issue that 3PL shipping and logistics companies have to deal with. However, with the precision of automotive vehicles, the coverage area will increase. The logistics industry will be able to cater to a wider customer base.
- Self-driving vehicles will not only benefit to road transportation but also in warehousing in India. Machines that can work themselves are set to revolutionize warehouse management. They will optimize stocking, loading and unloading of goods, thus saving time and ensuring safety.
One effect of automotive logistics vehicles is that it will certainly bring down the costs drastically. This is a highly interesting development in some countries where logistics account for a significant percentage of the cost of products.
