Page 11 - Logistics News - Issue 02 - 2024

L O GIS TI CS C OS T S

Real-time visibility. Companies no longer need to hold their Continuous improvement. Data is the lifeblood of
breath, anxiously awaiting updates on their cargo. Real-time improvement. These tools capture valuable data on
tracking offered by TMS solutions reveals the exact location routes, performance and costs, providing insights for
of shipments, providing peace of mind and enabling proactive both manufacturers and transporters to continuously
interventions in case of delays or unforeseen events. optimise their operations and identify areas for further
cost reduction.
Transporters: mobile apps fuelling
operational ef ciency The road ahead: embracing technology for a
For South African transporters, mobile apps have become more collaborative future
than just convenient tools, they are catalysts for operational By embracing technology and putting the right business
efficiency and cost reduction. processes in place, manufacturers and transporters can
transform the South African logistics landscape from a
Driver management. Apps can streamline driver minefield of inefficiencies into a highway of cost-effective
communication, dispatch assignments and track hours of excellence. Collaboration, data-driven decisions and shared
service, ensuring compliance and optimising driver resource commitment to digital solutions are the cornerstones of future
allocation. This promotes driver satisfaction, minimises overtime success.
costs and enhances overall efficiency.
The future belongs to those companies that embrace
Paperless workflows. Ditch the mountains of innovation and agility. In the face of rising costs and a dynamic
paperwork. Mobile apps enable digital document capture, economic landscape, South African logistics can only thrive by
invoice processing and expense management, eliminating harnessing the power of technology, one TMS platform, one
manual effort and reducing administrative costs. This mobile app and one real-time data point at a time.
translates to faster turnaround times, improved accuracy
and happier drivers. Let’s pave the way for a future where transport costs are
not roadblocks, but catalysts for growth, spurred by the shared
Predictive maintenance. Proactive maintenance is key to vision of a lean, efficient and globally competitive South African
avoiding costly breakdowns and delays. Mobile apps with AI- logistics ecosystem.
powered features can monitor vehicle health, predict potential
issues and schedule preventive maintenance, minimising The South African context: a call for
downtime and maximising vehicle uptime. collective action
The unique challenges of the South African landscape demand
Real-time execution management tools: a a collective approach to tackling transport costs. Government
shared vision for success intervention in infrastructure development, crime reduction and
For both manufacturers and transporters, real-time execution fuel price regulation can provide a much-needed boost.
management tools act as a bridge, fostering seamless
collaboration and cost-effective execution. Manufacturers and transporters can collaborate to
advocate for these changes while fostering a culture of open
Shared visibility. A single platform allows both parties to communication and transparency within the industry. By
see the same real-time data on shipments, enabling proactive working together, the industry can create a more efficient and
problem-solving and efficient communication. This promotes cost-effective transport ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders
trust, builds strong partnerships and eliminates finger-pointing in and drives South Africa’s economic growth.
case of delays or issues.
In conclusion, by embracing transparency, leveraging
Exception management. Unexpected events are inevitable. technology and fostering collaboration, we can unlock cost-
Real-time software solutions provide instant alerts for deviations saving opportunities and build a more resilient and competitive
from planned routes, delays or potential security threats. This logistics sector. Only then can we truly harness the power of
allows both parties to react quickly, minimise disruptions and efficient transport to drive South Africa’s economic engine
mitigate potential losses. forward. •

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