Since the beginning of civilization, mankind has needed to transport items from one location to another. As 
we evolved, we became better at getting things to where they needed to go. Improved equipment and resources meant that we could get more items to more locations with less effort. Advancements in technology allowed us to hastily get items to more destinations. However, nobody had imagined the world would rely so heavily on logistics services as it has in the past few months.
In the last 100 years, we have seen a dramatic shift in technology. This has allowed us to wave goodbye to horseback and welcome modern transport methods such as trucks, trains, ships or aircraft. The advanced world of today demands that items are moved from a location, stored in a warehouse and then distributed. The world relies on trade, and logistics is at the heart of any trade deal.
With the recent pandemic, logistics services has become even more in high demand with everyone needing to purchase their goods online due to the current lockdown. This situation has magnified the huge importance of this industry in helping to keep things running as smoothly as possible in time of crisis.
Let us imagine a world without logistics – it would be chaotic, even more chaotic than life currently feels at present. Logistics has helped us to evolve as people. Improvements in logistics services help the world run smoothly and means that we can enjoy essential and luxury items from all across the globe. This industry connects the world, it always has and it always will.
The era of Ecommerce
Buying items online has become an easy process. It means that we can buy goods in a matter of minutes and have them delivered in no time at all. At times like these the warehouses that store our goods and the distribution network that gets them to us has seen a dramatic change with an increase in pressure. The resilience and forward thinking of this industry has made it possible for those at home to continue with at least some normality of obtaining the things they need when they need it. Logistics by definition is the art and science of obtaining, producing and distributing material and product in the proper place and in proper quantities.
The rise of Ecommerce has meant a greater demand for reverse logistics. Reverse logistics is a way to handle the returns, re use, recycling or disposal of goods. Software has enabled us to control and manage reverse logistics at a more cost-effective and efficient manner.
How business intelligence and technology has helped improve logistics services
Business strategy and intelligence have helped progress the distribution process during this period. Business logic in combination with new technology enables us to plan, implement and control efficient forward and reverse flows as well as the storage of goods via warehouse or other means.
Logistical evolution means that we can get goods to exactly where they need to be as well as track the journey. Technology has helped us to map the most efficient ways of distributing goods.
More thought goes into logistics today than it previously has before. A popular concept is the seven R’s of logistics. These focus on getting the Right product in the Right quantity in the Right condition in the Right place at the Right time to the Right customer for the Right price.
Business logic is applied when selecting the mode of transport. Selecting the most efficient combination in the distribution process improves the value for customers. When inventory is not on the move, it may need to spend time in a warehouse. Warehousing plays a vital role in the logistical cycle. The storage of goods in warehouses has enabled us to plan the journey of goods and deliver a better service.
The future of logistics is very exciting as we make further advancements in technology. Machine learning will likely play a greater role in logistics. It could well be possible that logistics becomes a fully automated process.
If you would like a quote for the logistics of your goods then give us a call on01279 452468 and we can help your business continue to operate online during these strange times.
