Intermodal transportation relies on numerous modes of transportation to ensure there is efficient supply of goods. With technological advancement, the new container tracking devices will enable stakeholders to reap benefits and minimize losses. Depending on the device, there is a wide range of monitors that can be utilized to provide coverage of freight without physical restrictions. With increased utilization of container tracking devices, the international intermodal transport system stands to benefit from enhanced data sources, efficient monitoring, efficiency, and security which is essential to efficiency.
Tracking will positively impact cost-effectiveness. Reliance on Global Positioning System (GPS), ensures that there is a 24/7 surveillance of shipments across borders. As such, tracking devices enhance security which ensures that individuals will not incur additional costs as a result of theft and tempering of goods (Miler, 2015). Indeed, the traditional tracking systems tend to be manual and unreliable. The data collection is also costly since it relies on human capabilities. However, Smart containers can avail data automatically which ensures that different stakeholders can play their role without incurring additional costs (Harris et al., 2015). For example, port operators will be able to use the information to plan for shipments and prepare storage facilities just in time. When containers can be delivered at the right port and in time, owners can save up on costs that would be required to trace and deliver cargo.
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The devices will enhance condition monitoring of goods. The internet of things (IoT) present in smart containers allow individuals to check the condition of their products remotely. Monitoring devices are also attached to the cargo which can determine the humidity, light, and shock (Hricová & Straka, 2014). Through the help of GPS, cargo owners can act promptly based on the analyzed information. The technology can allow the temperature to be adjusted in response to numerous fluctuations in the environment. For instance, the data collected can outline the products that are in good condition so that the owners can act promptly and decide on how to compensate for the loss. Also, Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags enhance the visibility of cargo which improves prompt response based on facts of the condition of products since data can be transferred in short and long ranges. Tracking will ensure that the goods delivered are of high quality.
Devices will enhance security through systems that prevent cargo theft. Tracking incorporates data logging and satellite positioning. Also, the freight owners can rely on data in back office to minimize inconveniences. Through mobile and satellite networks, it is possible to combine the security management and operations management system that links containers to information technology systems (Muñuzuri et al., 2016). Through the use of GPS the suppliers can track the progress of their cargo to prevent hijacking efforts. In high-risk areas, the innovative devices guarantee that individuals can still transport their goods between different countries. In case of disruptions, notifications are provided to clients for decision-making. At the same time, the companies in charge of logistics can get an overview of the cargo to determine inefficiencies and possible blind spots. Through a combination of cargo security and GPS tracking, there is efficient asset tracking between warehouses. The efficiency guarantee that security information is availed through notifications.
The tracking devices avail data that will improve transportation efficiency between different channels. Transportation management systems (TMS) allow tracking, control, and monitoring of cargo at different points including warehouses, rails, and ships (Muñuzuri et al., 2020). The information is also availed in real-time through technologies such as on-board computers. Through automation of some of the processes of the transport system, the goods can move across different modes of transportation via automation (Hidalgo et al., 2018). Also, the barcode technology ensures that workers can collect necessary information which can be accessed remotely making intermodal transport more reliable and convenient. The ability to be aware of where the products are regardless of location will be instrumental. Through appropriate reporting tools, the efficiency of multimodal transport will improve.
The incorporation of augmented reality technology will enhance intermodal transparency on consignment. Through augmented reality (AR) technology, interactions of the real world are augmented through visual graphics (Muñuzuri et al., 2016). Therefore, through web cameras, and mobile devices, information can be displayed so that individuals can decide on whether to purchase a consignment. In warehouses, AR can be incorporated to display information regarding the location which ensures that fraud is minimized at the international level. Ideally, the technology will be instrumental in ensuring that clients can be offered details on when their shipment will be ready for shipment. The technological devices encourages error-free picking conditions since every container is fully automated.
Tracking devices will enhance flexibility to react to changes in the supply chain. Tracking and tracing guarantee that all actors can cooperate and respond to improve collaboration among players. Through availed data, information sharing from the point of dispatch to the point of arrival will be made possible. Tracking devices are part of the Global Intermodal Freight Transport System (GIFTS) framework which aims to integrate transport technologies into one internet platform (Shin et al., 2018). Therefore, through the compatibility of devices, clients can remain connected regardless of the technological device or geographical location. Also, through in-transit monitoring devices such as GPT29, all intermodal players rely on sensors to stream data and communicate their concerns to their counterparts. The application will ensure there is a match between supply such as transport orders and demand which includes drivers and warehouses. The device encourage collaboration, optimality, and minimizes costs resulting from mismatch, and delays.
Conclusively, container tracking devices will be instrumental to positive changes in transport. Through efficient data, clients and organizations can rely on real-time developments of their shipments. The process ensures cost efficiency since security and quality are guaranteed. By reacting to unexpected changes, cargo owners and freight companies can decide on the best approach that ensures end-to-end visibility and optimal performance. As the gains become more apparent, the adaptation of container devices will enhance the logistics operation.
References
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Hidalgo, F., García, O., Muñoz, C & González, C. (2018). Intelligent containers based on a low-power sensor network and a non-invasive acquisition system for management and tracking of goods," in IEEE transactions on intelligent transportation systems, (19), 8.
Hricová, R., & Straka, M. (2014). Opportunity of RFID using for intermodal transport in security of goods. Applied Mechanics and Materials , 718, 162–167. https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.718.162
Miler, R. (2015). Electronic container tracking system as a cost-effective tool in intermodal and maritime transport management. Economic Alternatives , 40-52.
Muñuzuri, J., Luis, O., Pablo C., & José G. (2020). Using IoT data and applications to improve port-based intermodal supply chains. Computers & industrial engineering. (139)
Muñuzuri, J., Onieva, L., Escudero, A., & Cortés, P. (2016). Impact of tracking system for containers in a port-based supply chain. Brazilian Journal of Operations & Production Management , 13(3), 352-359. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.14488/BJOPM.2016.v13.n3.a12
Shin, S., Roh, S., & Hur, S. (2018). Technical trends related to intermodal automated freight transport systems (AFTS). The Asian Journal of Shipping and Logistics . (34),2.
