Making the most of the fifth-gen telecom

The potential of 5G in the supply chain and logistics extends beyond its primary benefits, opening up a plethora of novel opportunities for the industry

The advent of 5G technology is anticipated to significantly impact the supply chain and logistics industry. With its ability to facilitate swifter communication between vehicles and roadside infrastructure, 5G promises to enhance traffic flow and bolster security through advanced encryption capabilities.

With the rolling out of the new technology standard, the industry stands to reap several benefits from the increased bandwidth that 5G offers. And the diverse advantages and opportunities that technology brings to this sector are also expected to impact the bottom line of the players adopting it.

The advent of 5G technology further promises to bring about a radical transformation in the logistics and transportation industry through its advanced inventory and fleet management capabilities. With the ability to process data at lightning speed and with greater efficiency, 5G can optimise the entire logistics process, ranging from warehousing to last-mile delivery. Such a paradigm shift is bound to result in improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

5G connectivity allows for the integration of multiple wireless devices, resulting in faster and more precise warehouse management systems.

5G allows for more precise tracking of vehicle locations in real time, which can have a significant impact on transportation. This newfound visibility can empower companies to make informed decisions that will further enhance their operational efficiency and mitigate risks. Overall, the potential of 5G in the supply chain extends beyond its primary benefits and opens up a plethora of novel opportunities for the industry.

#1

Supply chain efficiency and visibility

The primary advantage of 5G networks in the logistics industry lies in their ability to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency significantly. This feature facilitates seamless tracking of items from their origin to destination, even if they are located across oceans. Additionally, 5G networks offer improved inventory and parts tracking, which results in fewer instances of out-of-stock items and more efficient order fulfilment.

Real-time data provided by 5G networks can be instrumental in enabling companies to identify bottlenecks in their supply chain and make necessary adjustments promptly. This, in turn, will lead to more efficient routing, superior fleet management, and ultimately, cost savings.

#2

Better processes and collaboration

The integration of 5G technology in logistics is poised to benefit all stages of the supply chain, particularly in the realms of inventory management and intelligent transportation systems. By embracing digitalisation, the supply chain can achieve more streamlined processes and foster better collaboration among stakeholders.

In warehouses, 5G connectivity allows for the integration of multiple wireless devices, resulting in faster and more precise warehouse management systems. Internet of Things or IoT sensors on ‘smart shelves’ provide real-time inventory visibility, ensuring that stock is continuously available without overstocking. Digital warehouse management systems can also facilitate better labour management, resource allocation, and overall process optimisation. The net result is greater supply chain resilience, accelerated digitalisation, and enhanced efficiency.

#3

New technologies and novel opportunities

5G technology offers more than just swifter data handling. It also enables network slicing, leading to the creation of unique and efficient networks tailored to specific business requirements. This feature can be leveraged in fleet management to facilitate secure data exchange between vehicles and relevant infrastructure entities. Moreover, 5G can support new applications such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), which can enhance warehouse operations by providing technicians with real-time guidance and reducing downtime.

Another emerging technology that stands to benefit from 5G connectivity is blockchain, which can help boost transparency and traceability in the supply chain, enabling better collaboration among stakeholders and reducing the risk of fraud and counterfeiting.

#4

Safer and more efficient transport system

The implementation of 5G in logistics has the potential to significantly improve driver and vehicle safety by enabling low-latency, high-speed communication through vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology. This innovation allows vehicles to communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians, helping to prevent accidents and optimise routing. V2X technology can also assist with predictive maintenance, ensuring that vehicles receive timely service and reducing the risk of breakdowns or mechanical failures.

Overall, the adoption of 5G technology in logistics presents a valuable opportunity to improve safety on the roads and minimise risks associated with mechanical failures or accidents. With the aid of V2X technology, logistics companies can create a safer, more efficient transport system, benefiting both drivers and the industry as a whole.

#5

Real-time monitoring and data analysis

The implementation of 5G technology in logistics provides businesses with the invaluable ability to monitor operations and analyse data in real time. With real-time monitoring, companies can make informed decisions based on current information, leading to better insights into supply chain performance, operational optimisation, and faster responses to changes or disruptions. Additionally, 5G-powered predictive analytics can help businesses anticipate and address potential issues before they become critical, such as forecasting demand and capacity planning.

Overall, the use of 5G technology in logistics enables businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimise their supply chain performance, and respond quickly to changes or disruptions. With real-time monitoring and data analysis, companies can remain competitive in a constantly evolving industry and position themselves for long-term success.

#6

Low fuel consumption and emission

The implementation of 5G technology in logistics can have significant environmental benefits. 5G technology enables more efficient transportation systems and logistics operations, leading to a reduction in the industry’s environmental impact. Improved routing, fleet management, and real-time data analysis can contribute to reducing fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall waste.

Real-time monitoring and tracking of shipments can also help minimise the risk of lost or damaged goods, reducing the need for replacement shipments and additional transportation. The adoption of electric vehicles in logistics is another area where 5G technology can play a crucial role. 5G-enabled charging infrastructure and communication systems can help streamline the charging process and provide real-time information on charging station availability.

Overall, the environmental advantages of 5G technology in logistics can be significant and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The incorporation of 5G technology into logistics operations is poised to facilitate the widespread adoption of collaborative robots, Cobots, and automation. Cobots can operate alongside human workers to enhance productivity, efficiency, and safety in logistics settings, including warehouses. Moreover, automated guided vehicles, AGVs and autonomous mobile robots, AMRs are additional examples of automation in logistics that can offer benefits.

The integration of technology as an enabler for individuals has proven to be a significant boon for society. The advent of modern technology has streamlined daily routines, allowing people to achieve more in less time and with fewer resources. By leveraging new-age technology tools driven by 5G, the supply chain and logistics sector too can accomplish a lot more.

By Nitish Gupta

Nitish is a Senior Vice President of Technology and Last Mile business at Emiza and Co-founder and CTO at Shippigo, which was acquired by Emiza

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