Innovative logistics solutions to save time: 7 shortcuts that help busy managers maximize productivity

Saving Time With Warehouse Accuracy & Automation

Having an efficient warehouse management is key to save time. There are many moving parts and pieces in a warehouse, and innovative tools can be used to streamline workflow for rapidity.

1) Predictive analytics

Both big data and artificial intelligence (AI) buy valuable time in the warehouse by predicting patterns and demand to optimize processes. Accurate forecasts help avoid disruptive inventory backlogs, and cut costs, as well as to make planning easier – and quicker – for warehouse restocking, maintenance, manpower hours and shipping.

2) Smart mobile devices

Mobile devices modernize order fulfillment with unmatched speed, efficiency and precision in the warehouse. Smartphones and tablets synchronize with the warehouse management system (WMS) to simplify inputting and receiving picklist and shipping label information.

Meanwhile, handheld devices are equipped with RFID scanners, automatic identification and data capture technology. This allows pickers so save time, put-away teams and robotics, which means : faster replenishment, higher pulling and profitability.

3) Autonomous mobile robots

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are small, agile robots that quickly move inventory within the warehouse. Time is no longer wasted because sensors and map technology navigate the best routes depending on the task and interpret obstacles to avoid.

With a high level of reliability, AMRs can swiftly sort and calculate stock by identifying packaging information. They also take on repetitive tasks to reduce stress and free up staff, who then can be more productive focusing on strategic activities.

4) Unmanned aerial vehicles

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly called drones, give real-time visibility on warehouse inventory levels. To gain time and prevent errors, drones expertly locate items much faster than humans using optical sensors (cameras) and RFID scanning tags at a distance of tens of meters. They can access hard-to-reach places rapidly, and don’t use precious floor space.

Saving Time With Smart Mobility

Time is a critical factor in today’s distribution channels. Delivery has to be on-time, traceable and according to consumer convenience. In parallel, it must respect rising market trends, environmental regulations and digitization. Smart mobility choices are what make the difference in transporting goods promptly and safely.

5) Route optimization with AI

Used for autonomous vehicles and high-tech driving assistance, AI improves logistics transportation by detecting weather and traffic patterns to better navigate routes and prevent accidents. In addition to reducing time spent in traffic, AI also helps reduce fuel and overhead costs related to deliveries.

To decrease the amount of delays, the Internet of things (IoT) uses real-time data from GPS devices and sensors to provide precise calculations on the location and condition of vehicles and goods. Visibility enhances accuracy and quickness of delivery operations.

IoT intelligence also solves sensitive challenges in the last mile for food and pharmaceutical supply chains, monitoring humidity, temperature, pressure and shock to prevent product damage.

7) Crowdshipping

Crowdshipping for logistics transportation creates synergies that speed-up shipment for faster delivery service in busy city centers, where high demand can be matched with an abundance of available couriers.

For crowdsourced last-mile deliveries, the service or product provider connects with local, non-professional couriers who use their own transportation to ship goods on-demand, scheduled at the customer’s convenience.

Effective Time Management Made Easier

Customers expect a fast flow of service from start to finish in the sales lifecycle. Therefore, seamless running logistics are at the core of a successful and positive customer experience.

Finding strategies for effective time management is becoming easier, with new tools and trends now emerging to facilitate a smoother supply chain. Logistics leaders in all sectors are readily adopting these innovations to spend time more wisely, which is the gateway to better business, happier customers and greater competitivity!
 

To learn more about logistic innovations that can help you save time in your daily job, download our latest white paper : 7 Logistics Trends To Embrace Innovation In 2021!