Trends Shaping The Future of the Logistics Industry

In the past, the logistics industry’s growth was driven by Asia to Europe and Asia to North America exports. Today it is not so. Growth in the future will come from somewhere else and will likely be more volatile, unpredictable and fragmented. The growth of populations and economies will likely be more centred in the various cities, with infrastructure becoming a key growth determinant.

How Consumers Behave
With the advent of eCommerce, the logistics industry has experienced a great impact with a supply chain that has multiple channels and is quickly changing in order to meet the needs of the consumer. Fulfilment practices must be adjusted by the various businesses if they are to cope with the current changes while at the same time managing a B2B supply chain that is economical. Moreover, they will have to deal with contradiction of consumers who are expecting more than one delivery option – last-mile services, same day and next day deliveries as well – and yet 67% of them will select the slowest and cheapest method of deliver.

Uberization of Trucking
Ride sharing has worked really well in the taxi business and some trucking companies are hoping to see the same happen in the trucking industry. To this end, they are offering uber-like services as well as apps. The idea is to give clients more control of transportation and inventory since they are looking for more visibility. Some of the apps being used currently include Cargomatic, DashHaul, LaneHoney and Transfix. They allow shippers to see which trucks are close to their location and then book directly in just one click without having to use a broker. The driver of the truck will need to use his or her truck scale/weighing system to ensure that there is space for the client’s goods. It is therefore imperative that the truck scale receives regular cleaning, inspections and calibration for accuracy.