The Future Logistics & Supply Chain Technologies (2024)

A supply chain is a network of companies that interact with each other to produce goods or services. The relationship between logistics and the supply chain is a complex network that involves many different participants. These participants include manufacturers, retailers, distributors, vendors, and transportation providers. Both industries have come a long way in terms of technology and efficiency over the years.

Recent technological advances in the supply chain and logistics technology have brought about significant changes. The advancements have resulted in the creation of new technologies that are likely to transform how we do business. While physical objects are still the main focus of a supply chain, technologies such as blockchain are changing how we think about logistics and supply chains. Here we will discuss some of the important developments related to future logistics and supply chain technologies.

Also read: The Future of Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry

Table of Contents

Logistics Market Overview

Logistics is the process of organizing and managing the flow of materials, information, and finances in a supply chain. The fact that logistics is an important aspect of supply chain management is evidenced by the fact that it accounts for 11% to 15% of a company’s total costs. Logistics is the set of activities that companies perform to move goods from one point to another. The logistics sector is estimated to account for around 20% of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP). The growing digitization of supply chain processes is part of the reason why this sector has been growing at a steady pace over the last decade.

According to the World Economic Forum report, the logistics sector is expected to grow by 6.4% annually until 2023. This will be driven by increased demand for consumer goods, strong trade links between countries, and improvements in technology such as automation and the Internet of Things (IoT).

What Future Technologies Will Disrupt Supply Chains?

Technology has had a major impact on the supply chain industry. For example, the introduction of barcodes has greatly improved the efficiency of supply chains. The other technologies that have had a major impact on supply chains include Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, Big Data, and Cloud Computing. Supply chain technologies are constantly evolving. Here are some of the future technologies that will disrupt the supply chain industry.

Big Data refers to large datasets that need special tools for processing, analysis, or storage due to their size, complexity, or rate of change. Big Data has been a very important part of supply chains since it helps companies analyze data such as sales trends and customer behavior patterns which are very important factors when making strategic decisions such as planning production schedules or forecasting demand for products, among others. Reputable supply chain software development services are able to integrate Big Data into their applications. This allows companies to use the data for decision-making purposes and create apps that help them achieve their business goals.

Blockchain is a digital ledger in which transactions made using cryptocurrencies are recorded. It is used to record transactions in a way that makes them tamper-proof. This technology is expected to be used by logistics and supply chain companies to solve issues such as supply chain transparency, data security, and fraud. The use of blockchain technology will help to make supply chains more reliable and trustworthy.

Artificial Intelligence is a computer system that is designed to think like a human being. It can learn from its own experience and make decisions independently. This technology will enable supply chain companies to make more accurate decisions. Future supply chain tracking technologies will be based on Artificial Intelligence. Companies can also use this technology to identify potential problems in the supply chain. According to a recent study, about 83% of executives from large corporations are planning to implement Artificial Intelligence in their business processes.

Internet of Things is a system that connects physical objects to the Internet. These objects are referred to as “Things” because they can be almost anything from vehicles, machines, and even livestock and plants. The Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to have a major impact on the supply chain industry due to its ability to collect data from various sources. This data can then be used by companies for decision-making purposes. The Internet has been a major factor in the evolution of supply chain management. It has made it possible for companies to connect with their customers and suppliers easily. Logistics information technology has improved customer satisfaction since customers can now get the products they need when they want them with ease.

Cloud computing is a type of computing in which the processing power and data storage are provided by a third-party service provider. It has been used by supply chain companies for its ability to provide companies with access to the necessary data without having to purchase expensive hardware. This allows companies to access big data and process it promptly. These innovations in logistics and supply chain management have helped companies to be more efficient in their operations and also generate higher revenues.

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How Technology Is Changing The Future Of Logistics

The logistics industry has been one of the most affected industries in the world. The advent of technology has brought about many changes to it. The most vital change that has been brought about is the improvement in the delivery time. The companies have been able to improve their efficiency through technology and digitalization, which has resulted in a reduction in delays and increased profitability. Another key benefit that comes with technological advancements is that it has reduced the cost incurred by companies for transportation. This means that customers can get their goods at lower prices because transportation costs have been reduced. The advanced technology supply chain management has helped companies to reduce the cost of inventory and also the number of employees.

The industry has also been able to achieve a lot in terms of transparency because of technological advancement. The introduction of blockchain has made it possible for companies to be able to track the movement of their products from one point to another. Other companies have gone a step further and have introduced smart contracts, which are agreements between companies and customers. These make it possible for the delivery of products to be done based on the conditions that were agreed upon by both parties. The safety of the products has also been improved by technological advancements. Through the use of sensors, companies can track and trace the movement of their products.

Challenges Faced During The Technological Advancement

Several challenges have been encountered by the industry in terms of technological advancement. One challenge is that there is a lot of competition between companies, which has resulted in some companies having to close down. Another challenge is that it has been difficult for some companies to be able to adopt technological advancements because they don’t have enough capital to be able to do so. Other challenges include difficulty in implementing new technologies, lack of skilled workers, and poor infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, many companies have been able to adopt technological advancements. To be able to adopt these advancements, some companies have had to partner with other companies to be able to implement them. Such partnerships allow for the sharing of resources, which is a huge advantage. Businesses that have been able to adopt technological advancements have been able to diversify their business and also increase productivity.

Future Trends in the Logistics and Supply Chain Technologies

Drones are part of the future of the logistics industry. They will be used for sending urgent medical supplies, such as blood, medicine, vaccines, and other medical equipment, to areas where such items are scarce. They will also be used for delivering goods from one location to another within a short period. Drones are expected to be very useful in remote areas with no good roads that can’t get deliveries from road vehicles because they can land on small landing sites, which means that they don’t need runways or tarmacs.

Also read: 10 Most Profitable Mobile App Business Niche

Advanced logistics software systems will allow companies to track their products as they move through the supply chain, and this means that companies will know exactly where their products are at all times and what is happening to them at every point in time during transit from one location to another. This information is vital for businesses because it allows them to know exactly what is happening with their products so that they can take action if there are any issues along the way or if there is a delay somewhere along the route, which could cause a delay in the delivery of their products.

In the face of a changing world, we must look to the future and adopt new technologies that will drive business value and streamline supply chains. You can’t just take your current processes and expect them to work in the new environment. You must look to new technologies and new ways of thinking to drive your business forward. The evolution of technology and the eCommerce industry will continue to evolve and change the way we do business. New technologies will provide companies with more ways to reach their customers and new ways for customers to interact with brands. The future of supply chain management is bright, and it is up to us as individuals in this industry to take advantage of the opportunities that are presented.

The Future Logistics & Supply Chain Technologies (2024)

FAQs

What do you think is the future of technology in supply chain management? ›

By 2026, more than 75% of commercial supply chain management application vendors will deliver embedded advanced analytics (AA), artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. Improved decision making through the use of AA and AI is a high priority for supply chain users in all markets and industries.

What will be the future of supply chain? ›

Future supply chains will need to be much more dynamic—and be able to predict, prepare, and respond to rapidly evolving demand and a continually changing product and channel mix. In short, supply chains will need to become agile.

What is supply chain technology and why is it important? ›

Supply chain technology makes it easier to evaluate data, gain insights (on things like customer demand, transportation/warehouse restrictions, and supplier lead times), and make decisions that have direct and indirect effects on overall supply chain performance.

How technology can improve supply chain operations? ›

Quickly Note Warning Signals, Solve Issues and Forecast Problems. Used to measure world events in real time, machine learning and big data tools can forecast supply chain issues and provide early warning signals as things start to go wrong, such as weather negatively impacting logistics in some regions.

How technology is changing the future of logistics? ›

Improved technology has also increased productivity in the supply chain, minimising costs and errors. These advances benefit all areas of the logistics industry: trucking transportation, international transportation (ocean and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking.

What technologies are shaping the future of logistics operations? ›

Top 5 Tech Trends in Supply Chain and Logistics Shaping the...
  • Overview.
  • AI and ML.
  • IoT.
  • Computer Vision.
  • Blockchain.
  • Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
  • Bottom line.
28 Mar 2022

What technology is used in logistics? ›

Future Ready Technologies shaping the Logistics Industry. Buzzwords such as Blockchain, Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) are now an integral part of the technology adoption plans of most players in the logistics industry.

What factor will affect your supply chain in future? ›

Economic markets and specifically inflation, geopolitical and trade risks, and the changing global health situation will all impact supply chains.

What are the future challenges for supply chain management? ›

The following are 2022's biggest supply chain challenges faced by product-based businesses from all over the globe.
  • Material scarcity. ...
  • Increasing freight prices. ...
  • Difficult demand forecasting. ...
  • Port congestion. ...
  • Changing consumer attitudes. ...
  • Digital transformation. ...
  • Restructuring. ...
  • Inflation.
17 Mar 2022

What are the goals of supply chain technology? ›

The main goal of supply chain management is to manufacture products and deliver them to the end consumers. However, providing the product is not the only goal; the quality of that product also matters. You should provide consumers with a product that offers the best value possible.

What is supply chain in simple words? ›

A supply chain is the network of all the individuals, organizations, resources, activities and technology involved in the creation and sale of a product. A supply chain encompasses everything from the delivery of source materials from the supplier to the manufacturer through to its eventual delivery to the end user.

What is logistics and supply chain information technology? ›

Logistics encompasses the activities of inventory management, order processing, warehouse and materials handling and physical distribution. SCM is the design and operation of the physical and managerial systems needed to transfer goods and services from vendor to customer in an effective and efficient manner.

Can you use technology to improve logistics? ›

From last-mile delivery robots and sustainability solutions, to warehouse automated picking systems and predictive optimization software, AI is already making a huge difference in logistics. Shippers, carriers, suppliers, and consumers can all expect to benefit from these logistics technology trends continuing in 2022.

Which technologies will have the biggest impact on supply chain performance? ›

Let's take a look at the technologies that are making the biggest impact on supply chains around the world: Cloud technology and cloud-based commerce networks. Internet of Things. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning.

How do new technologies affect supply? ›

Technological advances that improve production efficiency will shift a supply curve to the right. The cost of production goes down, and consumers will demand more of the product at lower prices. Computers, televisions and photographic equipment are good examples of the effects of technology on a supply curve.

What is the future of logistics industry? ›

Big Data and Networking for Logistics Automation

With ever new software and smarter hardware, more and more data can be collected and exchanged with each other. Based on the respective data, the logistics companies involved can draw conclusions from the past and provide forecasts for the future.

Why is innovation of technology in logistic is important? ›

A lot of innovation in logistics has to do with processes and operational improvements. The best innovations will not only make your operations run more effectively but also make your team happier. In the end, it is your team that is performing the actual processes. They say that if you're not growing you're dying.

How technology is impacting the logistics industry? ›

Technology has reshaped the logistics industry by increasing productivity in the supply chain and reducing costs and errors. All areas of the logistics industries like transportation, international transportation (ocean and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking have benefitted.

What kind of technology that plays critical role in the logistics future? ›

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The implementation of AI software solutions into the supply chain enables to proactively replenish material based on real lead times and supply chain bottlenecks.

What is innovation and technology in logistics? ›

This logistics innovation is the implementation of technology and resources that can be used to manage the fulfillment process, which helps to speed up processes, save time, and reduce human error. Logistics automationis using technology and equipment to help with warehouse operations and fulfillment processes.

What is the purpose of logistics? ›

Logistics is the process of planning and executing the efficient transportation and storage of goods from the point of origin to the point of consumption. The goal of logistics is to meet customer requirements in a timely, cost-effective manner.

What are the new trends in logistics? ›

6 Major Logistics Trends Shaping Logistics Management in 2022
  • Supply chain agility.
  • Automation Complexity.
  • Demands for real-time data.
  • Supply chain transparency for critical collaborations.
  • Less Than Truckload Demand.
  • Digitally Evolving Business.

What are the benefits of effective supply chain management? ›

Important benefits of supply chain management
  • Better collaboration with suppliers.
  • Better quality control.
  • Shipping optimisation.
  • Reduced inventory and overhead costs.
  • Improved risk mitigation.
  • Stronger cash flow.
  • A more agile business.
  • Better visibility and data analytics.
26 Jan 2022

What is the most important factor in supply chain management? ›

Since Supply Chain Management consists of managing the flow of information, products and services across a network of supply chain partners, manufacturing plants, and customers, the most challenging key factor would be an accurate communication.

What emerging supply chain technology do you think will have to biggest impact in supply chain management the next 10 20 years? ›

Track-and-trace solutions, advanced RFID capabilities, and smart packaging are emerging tech trends that will have major impacts on security, governance, and risk management for supply chain leaders and supply chain partners.

Does new technology and emerging trends affects supply chain management? ›

Data science and analytics allow companies to use data to gain valuable insights and revolutionize supply chain management.
...
Other benefits include:
  • Improved asset utilization;
  • Better customer service;
  • Streamlined inventory and supply availability; and.
  • Safer and more reliable work environments.
9 Mar 2020

What is the biggest challenge you are facing in your supply chain? ›

Shippers' Top 5 Supply Chain Challenges:

Keeping transportation costs down. Keeping up with customer/industry demands. Sourcing consistent, reliable carrier capacity. Keeping up with the latest technology solutions and demands.

What are the seven new trends in supply chain technology area? ›

Some of these trends include adopting big data, AI, sustainability, and omnichannel marketing. They are trends that go to show the vital role of technology in supply chain management. The use of such technology has grown beyond stock taking, order, and delivery.

What is the impact of technology in supply chain management? ›

Because technology and automation for the supply chain utilize real or near real-time data, companies have greater visibility and can track activities better. This helps improve collaboration and communication with key vendors and reduces cost through better vendor contract management.

What emerging supply chain technology do you think will have to biggest impact in supply chain management the next 10 20 years? ›

Track-and-trace solutions, advanced RFID capabilities, and smart packaging are emerging tech trends that will have major impacts on security, governance, and risk management for supply chain leaders and supply chain partners.

What technologies will be interesting to supply chain management in the next 5 years to come? ›

The Four Technologies Shaping Next-Gen Supply Chains
  • Cloud Computing and AI.
  • Robotic Process Automation.
  • Internet of Things.
  • Cloud Computing and AI.
  • Robotic Process Automation.
  • Internet of Things.
5 Sept 2021

What are the new technology and emerging trends in supply chain management? ›

7 Best Supply Chain Technology Trends & Innovations
  • Internet of Things.
  • Artificial Intelligence.
  • Augmented Data Intelligence.
  • Warehouse Automation.
  • Robotics.
  • Last-Mile Delivery.
  • Utilization of Supply Chain Management Software.

Why is technology important in logistics? ›

Supply Chain Reactions

Improved technology has also increased productivity in the supply chain, minimizing costs and errors. These advances benefit all areas of the logistics industry: trucking transportation, international transportation (ocean and air), supply chain management, and shipment tracking.

What are the goals of supply chain technology? ›

The main goal of supply chain management is to manufacture products and deliver them to the end consumers. However, providing the product is not the only goal; the quality of that product also matters. You should provide consumers with a product that offers the best value possible.

Which technologies will have the biggest impact on supply chain performance? ›

Let's take a look at the technologies that are making the biggest impact on supply chains around the world: Cloud technology and cloud-based commerce networks. Internet of Things. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning.

Which technology will enhance the efficiency of supply chains? ›

Machine learning leads to increased productivity and accuracy to keep costs low and operations running efficiently. The programming of machines to sense problems and send data make it easier to maintain tools and avoid lapses in production.

What are the major challenges and issues facing supply chains in the future? ›

Supply chain challenges in 2022
  • Material scarcity. Insufficient inputs have been a concern since the pandemic began, due to an abrupt rise in consumer demand like never before. ...
  • Increasing freight prices. ...
  • Difficult demand forecasting. ...
  • Port congestion. ...
  • Changing consumer attitudes. ...
  • Digital transformation. ...
  • Restructuring. ...
  • Inflation.
17 Mar 2022

How technology and automation is improving the efficiency of supply chain management? ›

The Benefits of Supply Chain Automation
  1. Decreasing operating costs. ...
  2. Increasing productivity. ...
  3. Increasing Volume. ...
  4. Improving accuracy. ...
  5. Improving time savings. ...
  6. Integrating with large suppliers. ...
  7. Improving compliance.

What technology is used in logistics? ›

Future Ready Technologies shaping the Logistics Industry. Buzzwords such as Blockchain, Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) are now an integral part of the technology adoption plans of most players in the logistics industry.

What factor will affect your supply chain in future? ›

Economic markets and specifically inflation, geopolitical and trade risks, and the changing global health situation will all impact supply chains.

How do you see supply chain changing over the next few years? ›

These are the top supply chain management trends as we move through the next few years:
  1. Post-pandemic Resilience. ...
  2. Blockchain. ...
  3. Digital Supply Chain Twins. ...
  4. Supply Chain as a Service (SCaaS) ...
  5. Circular Supply Chains. ...
  6. Cloud-based Products. ...
  7. AI and IoT. ...
  8. Robots and Automation.
17 Oct 2022

How important is logistics in improving the efficiency and reducing the costs in business? ›

Importance of Logistics

In business, success in logistics translates to increased efficiencies, lower costs, higher production rates, better inventory control, smarter use of warehouse space, increased customer and supplier satisfaction, and an improved customer experience.

What is emerging technology in logistics? ›

Trends such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, the internet of things (IoT), blockchain technology, and supply chain integration can be quite useful in ensuring that you are ahead of the pack.

How can technological resources be used to improve supply chain efficiency? ›

By harnessing a combination of technologies like AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics, companies can automate warehouse operations, improve delivery times, proactively manage inventory, optimize strategic sourcing relationships, and create new customer experiences that increase satisfaction and boost sales.

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