Optimising transportation and logistics with trackers
GPS trackers specifically used as vehicle tracking systems, can significantly enhance logistics visibility and improve supply chain performance in several ways:
Real-Time Location Tracking
Car trackers provide real-time information about the location of vehicles in the supply chain. This enables logistics managers to have complete visibility over their fleet, knowing where each vehicle is at any given moment. With this information, they can monitor the progress of deliveries, identify delays, and make informed decisions to optimise routes and schedules.
Route Optimisation
By analysing the data collected from car trackers, logistics managers can identify the most efficient routes for their vehicles. This helps in reducing fuel consumption, minimising travel time, and improving overall delivery efficiency. Optimised routes also contribute to reduced wear and tear on vehicles, enhancing their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Delivery Tracking and ETA Estimation
Car trackers allow for accurate tracking of deliveries. Logistics managers can provide customers with real-time updates on the status of their shipments, including estimated time of arrival (ETA). This transparency enhances customer satisfaction and builds trust by providing timely and reliable information about the location and progress of their orders.
Improved Asset Utilisation
Car trackers help in monitoring vehicle utilisation and identifying idle or underutilised assets. This data allows logistics managers to optimise asset allocation, identify opportunities for consolidation, and improve resource allocation. By maximising the utilisation of vehicles, companies can minimise costs and improve the efficiency of their supply chain operations.
Asset Location
To reduce down time, trailers are often uncoupled from the trucks and left behind to be unloaded or stored at a yard when not in use. The national and indeed international nature of supply chain logistics means that lorry trailers could be hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they are needed. In some cases, trailers can be forgotten about or in the worst case lost. Fleet Managers would be able to better manage their trailer fleet if they used specifically designed GPS tracking devices for trailers. As they are typically compact and battery-powered, trailer trackers can be easily installed without requiring a direct power source.
Security and Theft Prevention
Car trackers enhance security by providing anti-theft features. In case of vehicle theft, the tracker can transmit the location information to the authorities, increasing the chances of recovering the stolen vehicle. Additionally, the presence of a tracking system can act as a deterrent to potential thieves, reducing the risk of theft in the first place.
Maintenance and Performance Monitoring
Car trackers can collect and transmit data related to vehicle performance, including engine diagnostics, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs. This data can be used to implement proactive maintenance practices, identifying potential issues before they become major problems. By ensuring vehicles are in optimal condition, logistics managers can minimise downtime and reduce maintenance costs.
Analytics and Insights
The data collected from car trackers can be analysed to gain valuable insights into supply chain operations. By leveraging analytics tools, logistics managers can identify patterns, trends, and areas for improvement. This data-driven approach enables better decision-making, process optimisation, and the implementation of continuous improvement strategies.
Overall, car trackers provide real-time visibility, enable efficient route planning, enhance security, improve asset utilisation, support proactive maintenance, and offer valuable insights. By leveraging these benefits, logistics companies can streamline their operations, reduce costs, and enhance overall supply chain performance.
