India’s transportation sector has undergone a paradigm shift in recent years, driven by technological advancements that have revolutionised the way goods are transported and delivered. With the help of a transportation management system (TMS), businesses can now automate and optimise their logistics operations, resulting in greater efficiency and cost savings.
As we move towards a more digitally-enabled future, it’s essential to keep up with the latest trends in TMS technology to stay competitive in the market. In this article, we’ll delve into the top technological trends that are expected to transform the transportation management system landscape in India. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready to explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
Top 10 Futuristic Technological Trends Transforming the Capabilities of a Transportation Management System in India
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is set to revolutionize the transportation industry by providing real-time insights and predictive analytics to improve decision-making. AI-enabled advanced transport management software can analyze data from various sources, such as GPS data, weather reports, and traffic updates, to optimize routes, reduce delivery times, and enhance overall efficiency.
For instance, logistics giant DHL is using AI-enabled TMS to optimise its global transportation network. The system uses machine learning algorithms to predict transportation volumes, identify bottlenecks, and optimise delivery routes.
- Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) is another technology set to transform the essence of a transportation management system in India. IoT can enable businesses to track and monitor shipments in real time, using sensors and other connected devices. IoT can also enable businesses to optimise routes, improve safety, and reduce costs. Additionally, IoT can provide real-time visibility into shipment status, which can improve customer service.
Take the example of the Indian startup Route Mobile which has developed an IoT-enabled transportation management system that provides real-time visibility and predictive maintenance insights for fleet operators. The system uses IoT sensors to monitor vehicle health and identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
- Cloud-Based
Cloud-based transportation management systems offer several benefits over traditional on-premise systems. They are more flexible, scalable, and accessible, allowing businesses to access their logistics data from anywhere in the world. Cloud-based TMS also offer better data security, as all data is stored on remote servers that are backed up regularly.
Rivigo, one of India’s fastest-growing logistics startups, uses a cloud-based transportation management system to manage its entire logistics operations. The system provides real-time visibility into its entire supply chain, enabling Rivigo to optimise its delivery routes, reduce transit times, and improve customer satisfaction.
- Integrated Planning and Execution
An advanced transportation management software can integrate planning and execution, enabling a seamless transportation process from start to finish. By automating processes, logistics managers can quickly respond to changes in transportation demands and manage routes in real-time. This integration of planning and execution also helps to reduce operational costs and increase overall efficiency.
One prominent example of integrated planning and execution is Mahindra Logistics, who partnered with Oracle Transportation Management to optimise its logistics operations. By integrating planning and execution, Mahindra Logistics reduced manual intervention, improved delivery times, and increased customer satisfaction. The company also achieved a 30% reduction in transportation costs and improved on-time delivery performance by 15%.
- Automation and Robotics
Automated TMS can help reduce manual labour and enhance operational efficiency. Robotics can be used to automate the loading and unloading of goods, and even for last-mile delivery. Automated TMS also improves safety by minimising the need for manual intervention in the transportation process.
One notable example of automation and robotics in TMS is Flipkart, which uses robots to sort packages in its warehouses. By automating its sorting process, Flipkart reduced its order processing time by 70% and increased its delivery speed by 15%. Flipkart’s investment in automation and robotics has helped the company to become India’s largest online retailer.
- Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics helps logistics managers to anticipate issues before they occur, enabling them to proactively mitigate risk and optimise transportation processes. This technology can analyse historical data to identify patterns and predict future events, such as peak transportation periods or potential delays.
One practical application of predictive analytics in TMS is demonstrated by Delhivery, India’s leading logistics company.
By leveraging machine learning algorithms, Delhivery has been able to optimise its routing and scheduling processes, resulting in a 40% reduction in delivery time and a 50% increase in delivery accuracy. Predictive analytics has helped Delhivery to streamline its logistics operations and deliver a better customer experience.
- Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology offers several benefits for transportation management systems, including increased transparency, enhanced security, and reduced operational costs. It allows logistics managers to track goods from their origin to their final destination, ensuring complete visibility throughout the transportation process.
In 2018, Mumbai-based logistics company ABG Logistics partnered with Shipnext, a blockchain-based shipping platform, to digitise its logistics operations. By leveraging blockchain technology, ABG Logistics was able to automate its documentation processes and increase transparency in its supply chain. The company also reduced its operational costs and improved delivery times.
- Mobile-First
Mobile-first TMS solutions enable logistics managers to access data from any location, improving communication and real-time decision-making. With the growing use of smartphones, mobile-first TMS software can help logistics managers manage transportation processes on the go, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing efficiency.
Taking precedence of TMS software, a platform was developed by Bangalore-based logistics startup Locus. The company’s mobile-first solution enables logistics managers to manage their transportation operations remotely, reducing manual intervention and enhancing efficiency. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, Locus has been able to optimise routing and scheduling, resulting in a 40% reduction in operational costs for its clients.
- Use of Autonomous Vehicles
By leveraging the best transportation management system software, companies are increasingly integrating autonomous vehicles into their logistics operations.
Autonomous vehicles can provide real-time tracking, enabling businesses to monitor the status of their shipments at all times. This can help companies identify potential bottlenecks in their logistics operations and take corrective action to prevent delays. Autonomous vehicles can also reduce transportation costs, as they do not require a driver or other personnel to operate. This can help businesses lower their overall logistics costs and improve their bottom line.
One company that is making significant strides in the use of autonomous vehicles is Mahindra Logistics. The company has partnered with REE Automotive to develop a modular electric platform for autonomous vehicles. The platform can be customised to meet the specific needs of businesses, enabling them to optimise their logistics operations using autonomous vehicles.
- Last-mile Delivery
Last-mile delivery is a critical component of any logistics operation, as it involves delivering products to customers’ doorsteps. Transportation management systems (TMS) are increasingly being used to optimise last-mile delivery operations, enabling businesses to deliver products faster, more efficiently, and with greater accuracy.
The capabilities of the transportation management system enables businesses to track shipments in real-time, optimise delivery routes, and communicate with customers throughout the delivery process.
Let’s discuss the case of BigBasket, India’s leading online grocery delivery service, which uses a transportation management system to optimise its last-mile delivery operations.
The system enables BigBasket to track the location of its delivery vehicles in real-time, optimise delivery routes based on traffic conditions, and provide customers with accurate delivery times. As a result, BigBasket has been able to improve its delivery efficiency, reduce delivery times, and increase customer satisfaction.
FAQ: Transportation Management System
How does transportation management software integrate with other logistics technologies?
Transportation management software can integrate with other logistics technologies such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. The integration allows for seamless data exchange, reducing manual intervention and improving overall efficiency.
How can TMS software help with compliance regulations in India?
TMS software can help businesses stay compliant with regulations such as Goods and Services Tax (GST), e-way bills, and vehicle documentation requirements. The software can automate compliance processes, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.
How does TMS software help with environmental sustainability?
TMS software can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint by optimising routes, reducing empty miles, and improving fuel efficiency. These optimization techniques result in reduced emissions and contribute to a more sustainable transportation system.
How does transportation management system software help with supply chain visibility?
TMS software provides businesses with end-to-end visibility of their supply chain operations. The software can track shipments in real time, providing businesses with accurate delivery times and the ability to make informed decisions regarding their logistics operations. This visibility helps businesses reduce delays and improve customer satisfaction.
How does TMS software help with supply chain visibility?
Transportation management system software provides businesses with end-to-end visibility of their supply chain operations. The software can track shipments in real time, providing businesses with accurate delivery times and the ability to make informed decisions regarding their logistics operations. This visibility helps businesses reduce delays and improve customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of this article, it’s clear that transportation management systems (TMS) are the backbone of logistics operations in India, and the industry is set to experience some significant changes in the coming years. With the integration of innovative TMS solutions businesses can leverage the latest technologies to optimise their logistics operations and gain a competitive edge.
From the use of autonomous vehicles to real-time analytics and machine learning, the transportation industry is rapidly evolving, and it’s essential to keep up with the latest trends and best practices. As businesses strive to improve delivery times, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction, the effective use of a transportation management system will undoubtedly play a critical role.
At the forefront of this revolution is QodeNext, a technology partner with the expertise and experience to help you navigate the rapidly evolving transportation landscape. Their advanced transportation management software is designed to provide real-time insights into your logistics operations, helping you optimize your routes, reduce delivery times, and improve overall efficiency.
Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, the team of experts at QodeNext can work with you to develop a customised solution that meets your unique needs and delivers tangible results. So if you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve in the transportation industry, look no further than QodeNext. With QodeNext as your technology partner, the future of logistics is bright!
