As the logistics sector evolves and reaches new levels, a wave of technological advancement is expected in 2024, accelerating digitisation and process automation. Nevertheless, there will continue to be factors such as economic uncertainty and political instability that will continue to challenge normal supply chain flows.
So, with so many trends emerging in logistics, how can you maximise your business’ potential to succeed in the coming year? Read this article to find out more.
- Real Time Data and Information Requirement
- Logistics and tracking systems integrated;
- Real-time cargo tracking and tracing;
- Automated delivery of updates and information on shipping location and delivery times.
In this way, customers are kept informed throughout the process and are able to plan their business more efficiently.
- Increased demand for LTL solutions
Demand for less-than-truckload (LTL) solutions has increased with the growth of e-commerce and the need to deliver orders faster. This means that a truck can be filled with very small goods from different customers. In addition to customers only being charged for the space they occupy in the truck, the haulier can fill the truck faster.
- Greater Accuracy in Demand Forecasting
In the last few years – 2020, 2021 and 2022 – there have been events that have disrupted the entire supply chain and have proven that the logistics scenario is full of uncertainties and interruptions. It has never been more important to analyse sales history, taking into account periods related to product seasonality and market trends, price and economic fluctuations, competitive performance, etc., in order to better predict expected demand and thus better manage resources (i.e. people, raw materials, schedules) and operate more efficiently.
- Digitalization Will Continue to Deeply Shape and Transform the Industry
While digitalisation in transport is already a reality, process automation is expected to increase further, improving tasks such as real-time tracking of goods and supply chain visibility, thanks to the latest developments in artificial intelligence and blockchain technology.
Another massive step towards going digital is “going paperless”. As has already been the case with Olicargo, other companies in the sector are following suit and are doing away with paper in favour of new digital platforms that do not require the use of paper.
- Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience and Implementing Risk Management
Many vulnerabilities in the global supply chain have been exposed over the past four years. In order to address these gaps, companies need to rethink their strategies around the supply chain to increase their resilience, including the following:
- Diversify the range of suppliers.
- Alterar o processo como as mercadorias são adquiridas.
- Implement a contingency plan identifying potential risks and responses.
- Global Instability due to Climate Change and Geopolitical Tensions
If 2023 was marked by unexpected events, 2024 will focus on the already existing instability resulting from climate-related phenomena and geopolitical crises. This may trigger:
- Changes in transport routes;
- Interruption of production;
- Fluctuations in the supply of resources;
- Increased costs.
- Greater Commitment to Sustainability Matters
2024 will be a year marked by the decarbonisation of the transport and logistics sector. In order to comply with pacts and regulations aimed at achieving greener and more sustainable logistics, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, especially in maritime transport, is essential.
Sources:
Cleo. (n.d.). 11 Logistics Trends That Will Shape Logistics Management in 2024. Consultado a 30 de novembro de 2023, em: https://www.cleo.com/blog/logistics-management-trends
Hellenic Shipping News. (2023). What to expect in 2024 – 5 trends in freight forwarding. Consultado a 30 de novembro de 2023, em: https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/what-to-expect-in-2024-5-trends-in-freight-forwarding/
Forderline. (n.d.). The Future of Logistics: Predictions and Trends for 2024 and Beyond. Consultado a 30 de novembro de 2023, em: https://forderline.com/the-future-of-logistics-predictions-and-trends-for-2024-and-beyond/
Forbes. (2023). Six Trends For Shipping And Logistics Globally In 2024 And Beyond. Consultado a 30 de novembro de 2023, em: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/10/24/six-trends-for-shipping-and-logistics-globally-in-2024-and-beyond/
Maersk. (2023). What to expect in 2024 – 5 upcoming trends for project logistics. Consultado a 30 de novembro de 2023, em: https://www.maersk.com/insights/integrated-logistics/2023/11/06/project-logistics-trends
