HOW ARE ORGANISATIONS DIGITALISING SHIPPING CONTAINERS?

The 21st century has ushered in a new era of technological advancement, and the shipping industry is no exception. With the emergence of digital technologies, organizations are now able to more efficiently and effectively manage their supply chain operations, including the digitalization of shipping containers. This move towards a more digitized approach has revolutionized the way organizations handle their logistics, allowing them to better track, monitor and optimize their operations. 

What is the Digitalization of Shipping Containers?

Digitalization of shipping containers involves equipping traditional cargo-carrying vessels with modern sensor technology that can detect and transmit data back in real-time. This allows companies to track their cargo more accurately and efficiently than ever before. 

Data such as location information, temperature readings, humidity levels, and other relevant metrics can be collected and monitored remotely via a centralized management system. This allows companies to better manage their supply chain operations and ensure that shipments arrive on time, in the right condition, and at the right cost.

Ways in Which Companies are Digitalizing Shipping Containers? 

Ever since the emergence of digital technologies, companies have been leveraging them to make their logistics operations more efficient and effective. This includes the adoption of various technological solutions that can help digitalize shipping containers. 

These include the following:

Smart Sensors

Installing smart sensors onto containers that can detect and transmit data in real-time. It includes, for example, temperature readings, humidity levels, location information, and other relevant metrics. This allows companies to track their cargo more efficiently and monitor for any discrepancies or quality issues. 

Management Software

The use of smart container management software to automate the tracking and monitoring of shipments, providing a centralized platform for all stakeholders to view the information in one place. Typically, this would include shipment data such as arrival times, delivery status, and other relevant metrics. 

Barcodes

Utilizing smart container technology such as barcodes and RFID tags to track containers more accurately and facilitate a smoother supply chain process. For instance, RFID tags allow containers to be tracked more accurately and provide an extra layer of security. 

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology helps facilitate an immutable and secure digital ledger of transactions within the supply chain. This includes, for instance, tracking the transfer of goods and ensuring that all stakeholders are aware of its status at any given time. 

Automation

Using smart container technology to automate the delivery process, allowing for faster and more efficient deliveries. Now, companies can be alerted when a container is near its destination, helping to reduce delivery times and provide real-time updates on shipments. 

Analytics

Leveraging smart container analytics platforms to analyze data collected from smart sensors, providing insights into how shipments are performing and helping companies make informed decisions about their supply chain operations.

What are the Benefits of Digitalized Shipping Containers?

Digital shipping containers offer a variety of benefits, including the following:

Increased Visibility and Control 

The primary benefit of digitalized shipping containers is increased visibility and control over a company’s supply chain operations. By having access to real-time data, companies can better track and manage their shipments, identify potential problems as they arise, and take corrective action as needed. This means that companies can move goods more efficiently and cost-effectively, while also reducing the chances of delays or errors.

Improved Safety and Security

Another key benefit is the potential for smart container technology to improve safety and security. Smart containers are fitted with enhanced security features such as tamper detection and smart locks, which can alert companies to any suspicious activity and help protect against theft. In addition, smart container technology has the potential to improve cargo safety by monitoring temperature and humidity levels, preventing goods from becoming damaged or spoiling while in transit.

Enhanced Customers Personalized Experience 

Furthermore, the data collected through digitalized shipping containers can be used to better understand customer needs and preferences, helping companies provide a more personalized experience. For example, companies can use the data to predict customer demand and adjust their supply chain operations accordingly.

Increased Automation and Efficiency

Lastly, smart container technology can greatly reduce the amount of paperwork and manual processes associated with traditional shipping operations. By automating many of the administrative tasks related to shipping, smart containers can streamline supply chain operations and help companies save time and money.

All in all, digitalizing shipping containers provides organizations with a number of useful benefits and can help them better manage their supply chain operations.

Conclusion

Digitalized shipping containers have revolutionized the way companies manage their supply chain operations, offering increased visibility, control and safety over their shipments. This transition towards smart container technology has been an important step in the digitalization of the shipping industry, and is set to continue growing as organizations reap the benefits it brings. As smart container technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting applications in the future.