Any forward-thinking business owner will understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve, especially in the ever-evolving logistics industry. But how will emerging trends and technologies shape the future of logistics in Liverpool?
Several cutting-edge technologies and trends are just taking off and will help streamline operations and minimise environmental impact. From autonomous vehicles to robotics, these game-changing innovations are poised to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and give companies in the North West a competitive advantage.
So let’s look at some emerging technologies and trends set to transform supply chains from the mid-2020s onwards.
Autonomous Vehicles and Drones
The adoption of self-driving trucks and delivery drones will revolutionise the logistics industry in Liverpool and the rest of the United Kingdom over the next decade. Autonomous vehicles will increase efficiency by reducing human error and enabling 24/7 operations. Meanwhile, drones will facilitate last-mile deliveries in congested urban areas, improving delivery times and reducing traffic congestion.
You may have already seen drone trials held by leading companies such as Amazon and Google, and it’s only a matter of years before drones become commonplace in last-mile logistics. They will also have a place in the warehouse as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), performing tasks such as stock finding.
Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Analytics
IoT devices will play a crucial role in tracking shipments and monitoring the condition of goods throughout the supply chain. Real-time data collected from these devices can be analysed using advanced analytics tools, enabling logistics companies to optimise routes, minimise delays, and prevent damages.
With billions of data points generated on every journey, big data analysis (often led by machine learning algorithms) will play a key role in the supply chain. By analysing data collected from IoT devices and other critical touchpoints (including smart road infrastructure), logistics companies will be able to improve efficiency, secure cost savings, and deliver (pardon the pun) higher customer satisfaction.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics
In logistics, AI can be leveraged to optimise routes, manage warehouse operations, and facilitate predictive maintenance. Even the explosion of advanced language models like ChatGPT has applications in the logistics industry, including streamlined communications and automated customer service.
Robotics, on the other hand, will transform warehouse automation, with robots performing tasks such as picking, packing, and sorting. This innovation will increase efficiency, reduce labour costs, and free up employees for higher-value tasks.
Sustainable Logistics
The logistics and transport sector contributes just over a third of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, making it the largest-emitting sector in numerous developed countries. Given the current environmental concerns, regulations will drive the adoption of green technologies and practices in the logistics industry.
This includes the development of ISO 14083, a much-anticipated International Standard offering the first universal method for logistics emissions accounting. Considered a game changer for climate action, the forthcoming standard is expected to support the industry globally in its carbon reduction efforts.
As many companies relying on logistics providers make carbon neutral and net zero pledges, they will increasingly turn to their suppliers to secure reduced emissions up and down the value chain.
Upcoming advances in green practices include using electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles for transportation, optimising packaging to reduce waste, and leveraging renewable energy sources to power warehouses and distribution centres.
Remain at the Forefront of Liverpool’s Logistical Landscape
While many of the technologies and trends mentioned above are still in their infancy or have not yet been rolled out commercially, at TWA Warehousing & Distribution, we have always been at the forefront of Liverpool’s logistics landscape.
We will continue to implement forward-thinking technology and solutions to better anticipate and fulfil the needs of our customers.
We are experts in warehousing, fulfilment, transportation, and supply chain management, offering value-added services such as picking and packing, container devanning, and onward logistics. So if you want to future-proof your commercial operations in the North West from our Liverpool base, contact us today. We look forward to discussing your needs in more detail.
