Leveraging real time tracking to increase transportation visibility

The supply chain is a complex network of processes that require careful management to ensure that goods are delivered efficiently and effectively. One of the key challenges facing supply chain managers is ensuring transportation visibility, or the ability to track shipments in real-time. Real-time tracking allows managers to monitor shipments and respond quickly to any issues that arise, which can improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the supply chain. 

What is real-time tracking? 

Real-time tracking refers to the ability to track shipments in real-time using technology such as GPS tracking devices or mobile applications. This technology allows supply chain managers to monitor the location, status, and condition of shipments as they move through the supply chain. 

Real-time tracking provides a wealth of data that can be used to optimize the supply chain. By monitoring the movement of goods, managers can identify potential bottlenecks and take steps to reduce delays and improve efficiency. Real-time tracking also allows managers to quickly respond to any issues that arise, such as a delay caused by a traffic accident or a change in delivery location. 

Benefits of real-time tracking 

Real-time tracking offers a number of benefits for supply chain managers, including: 

1. Improved Visibility: Real-time tracking provides managers with a complete view of the supply chain, allowing them to monitor shipments as they move through the system. 
2. Enhanced Efficiency: Real-time tracking allows managers to identify and respond quickly to any issues that arise, reducing delays and improving efficiency. 
3. Reduced Costs: Real-time tracking can help reduce costs by optimizing the supply chain and reducing the need for manual intervention. 
4. Improved Customer Service: Real-time tracking allows managers to provide customers with accurate and up-to-date information on the status of their shipments, improving customer satisfaction. 

How to leverage real-time tracking to increase transportation visibility 

To leverage real-time tracking to increase transportation visibility in the supply chain, supply chain managers can take the following steps: 

1. Choose the Right Technology: There are a variety of real-time tracking technologies available, including GPS tracking devices, mobile applications, and RFID tags. Managers should select the technology that best meets the needs of their organization. 
2. Implement Real-Time Tracking: Once the technology has been selected, managers should implement real-time tracking across the supply chain. This may involve installing GPS tracking devices on trucks or using mobile applications to track shipments. 
3. Monitor the Data: Real-time tracking generates a large amount of data that can be used to optimize the supply chain. Managers should monitor this data regularly to identify potential issues and take steps to address them. 
4. Optimize the Supply Chain: Real-time tracking can be used to optimize the supply chain by identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Managers should use this data to make adjustments to the supply chain and improve efficiency. 
5. Improve Customer Service: Real-time tracking can be used to improve customer service by providing customers with accurate and up-to-date information on the status of their shipments. Managers should use this data to communicate with customers and provide timely updates on their shipments. 

Real-time tracking is a powerful tool for increasing transportation visibility in the supply chain. By leveraging this technology, supply chain managers can monitor shipments in real-time, identify potential issues, and optimize the supply chain for efficiency and cost savings. Real-time tracking also allows managers to improve customer service by providing accurate and up-to-date information on the status of shipments. 

By following the steps outlined in this article, supply chain managers can successfully leverage real-time tracking to improve transportation visibility and optimize the supply chain.