Automation and security advancements, such as autonomous vehicles and automated systems, are transforming commercial logistics operations by improving efficiency and tracking. Technologies like RFID labels and video surveillance enhance real-time monitoring and streamline access control, freeing operators for other tasks.
With shifting trade routes, increasing consumer expectations, and technological developments, the commercial and logistics sector finds itself at a turning point. But with the industry in flux, there is an opportunity to rewrite traditional processes and perceptions to uncover new areas of growth and efficiency, particularly in security.
Historically, security has been seen as a reactive function that was needed to protect goods, equipment, buildings and people. With advances in AI and automation, security technology is expanding beyond this to add value across supply chains, operations, customer service and more.
Efficiency Gains Through Automation
One of the most significant changes is automation and security for commercial logistics operations. Automated picking systems, conveyor belts, access control and even autonomous vehicles promise to improve efficiency and speed up processes. What once was a sci-fi storyline is now a reality in many warehouses and factories with automatic barcode scanning and RFID labels on shipments, providing real-time tracking of parcels, and video surveillance scanning for possible intrusion or unexpected vehicles in loading bays. Automatic access control, for example, opening a barrier or door for pre-authorized individuals and vehicles, is now possible, freeing up operators to focus on other activities.
Over three-quarters (76%) of logistics leaders report suffering from a labor shortage, with 37% of these causing a significant negative business impact. Automation can improve the shortfall by taking over some repetitive tasks, such as monitoring access and movements around a depot.
With automation taking over mundane, repetitive tasks, team efficiency is improved, labor costs are reduced, human error can be avoided, and processes are sped up. That’s not to say that humans will be replaced completely by automated systems, however. Combining automation with human oversight, for example, an operator stepping in to verify that the system has detected a suspicious event or unauthorised individual, is key to unlocking the potential of automation in logistics.
As more organizations strive to cut their carbon footprint, green logistics strategies like eco-friendly packaging, optimized routing, and energy-efficient smart warehousing have become standard practice. Intelligent video and connected sensors can help improve routing, track vehicles and shipments in real-time, and optimize fleet management. Over time, data on busy traffic areas or times of day can inform fleet management and improve waiting times at a depot. It can also be used to set expectations with consumers around when their parcel will be delivered.
Access control integrated with heating, lighting and ventilation systems can improve energy efficiency, with building controls automatically switched on when a door is opened and an individual enters a building (and likewise, off, when the system detects that they have left).
Modern supply chains are intricate webs of suppliers, transporters, and distribution centers. Real-time data on inventory levels, transport status, and warehouse conditions is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. Tracking shipments through connected sensors and intelligent video solutions allow logistics companies to pre-empt and rapidly respond to help reducing operational disruptions in commercial facilities, such as congestion, updating customers with accurate information about their delivery times.
Tracking inventory levels can minimize losses while also ensuring e-commerce information is accurate as to product availability. Unifying all sensor, vehicle and video data into a single seamless view will help operators understand, at-a-glance, shipment information, stock levels, vehicle location, and potential disruptions to troubleshoot.
Taking this a step further, video analytics can help identify equipment that may be malfunctioning or about to malfunction, preventing unexpected downtime. Vehicle and equipment usage can also be tracked to inform maintenance schedules.
With higher volumes of valuable goods moving through supply chains, theft, fraud, and vandalism are growing threats that could derail a shipment and cause customer dissatisfaction. Using a unified security system for alarm monitoring, access control, video verification, and other connected devices ensures that operators are thoroughly updated on everything happening across real-time supply chain monitoring for logistics facilities and buildings. AI can continuously scan for events that require human input, alerting operators to potential intruders, theft, vandalism or other suspicious behaviours.
Health and safety can be improved with systems tracking forklifts and other hazardous equipment around human workers and issuing alerts for possible danger. Access control can be used to prevent people from accessing restricted and unsafe areas unless authorized and trained to do so.
If an event does occur, investigations are more data-driven with the video, access control and other sensor data collected and consolidated in a single security system. It is also easier to access and analyze such data in one dashboard.
Cybersecurity and connected systems in modern supply chains are another increasing concern. Working with a trusted security vendor will give you peace of mind that your video, access control and other connected systems are as protected as possible against evolving cyber threats.
From automation to sustainability, the commercial and logistics market is evolving quickly. Businesses that remain flexible, embrace technology, and focus on sustainable practices will be well-positioned for success in the coming years. Leveraging security technology in innovative and value-added ways will take your organization from good to great, building a reputation for superior customer service, on-time shipments and accurate inventory.
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