Automation continues to prove its value in building transportation and freight management relationships. Even the most robust in-house strategies can turn to the value of logistics automation within analytics, such as the insights found in Lane Signal, to further refine their operations. This remains particularly true for shippers and logistics managers.  The use of logistics automation means making it easier than ever to adapt and adjust to changing market trends and consumer demands. As reported by Globe News Wire, “The [logistics automation] market was valued at US$ 41.5 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach US$ 91.7 billion by 2027; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2020 to 2027.” As the year progresses, it will be vital to continued growth and recovery that automation remain front and center for shippers across the board.

Enterprise shippers need a proactive strategy to secure capacity

One of the biggest challenges that shippers face remains to secure capacity. Along with this keeping, the fleet loaded to maximum capacity is essential. Being proactive with rate prediction and quotes can reduce dead haul miles. That will also help with limiting idle time between loads. Embracing modern logistics automation processes can speed up this predictive process. This also makes it easier to see capacity constraints or other available options that represent the most beneficial and profitable moves within the network. It always goes back to using data as a best practice for all aspects of freight management.

Logistics automation continues to benefit from the increased viability of advanced analytics

Data analytics provide a wide range of benefits for shippers that can properly harness logistics automation. And that’s a distinct value proposition in a world marred by continuous disruptions. For example, think about the use cases of these most impactful benefits to come from logistics upgrades and automation include:

  • Continuous development of SaaS and a renewed focus on customized service offerings.
  • Growing benefits of cloud utilization and the ability to tap into easy data access and storage.
  • Faster and more reliable communication and data sharing lines throughout the shipping chain.
  • Lower overhead and reduced fees for managers, shippers, drivers and customers in general. 
  • Improved predictive analysis and projection with logistics automation data and insights. 

The inescapable value of improved, real-time data for insights

Shipping managers can only make logical decisions when they have accurate data to apply. Logistics automation and real-time data analysis make this kind of insight possible. Old and outdated data not only makes it difficult for managers to do their job, but it can also cause real damage to the shipping lines. Operating on hours-old data, or worse, days-old data can lead to disaster for shipping fleet management. Real-time data, automated analysis and data-sharing remain essential to continued success and growth for all enterprise shippers. 

Automation goes together with omnichannel and online strategies too

The shift to innovative shipping strategies that embrace logistics automation is a crucial step for shippers. Online, mobile, automation and digital platforms help managers and shippers secure capacity and meet the growing demand. Omnichannel and online shipping options have changed the way enterprise shippers operate. It allows for faster and more profitable supply chains, but it comes at the absolute necessity for an end-to-end view of all operations. Throughout the chain, every step can be improved and enhanced. Logistics automation helps keep everything balanced and connected, sharing data when appropriate and making the moves to get freight to its destination regardless of order origin.

Enterprise shippers will look to deployable, compatible solutions to navigate the freight market

Enterprise shippers need to know how to navigate the ever-changing market with data. That is much is simple, but they also need to know how to adapt to customer wants and needs. Practical and applicable solutions for lane acuity give managers the insight they need into the freight market to make proactive tendering decisions. Such results come with logistics automation, real-time freight rate data and smart technology. Maintaining open lines of communication, automating freight execution and advanced analytic insights help shippers maximize use of owned assets, get the best rates and avoid delays.

Know what to expect with the right freight data source

Automation is essential for recovery, growth and success in the modern supply. Logistics automation is the most practical option for enterprise shippers trying to do more with less. Freight management parties that embrace digitized shipping technology and processes will see the greatest success. Digital freight tools and platforms also form an integral piece of the puzzle. The improved insights amount to greater capacity and lane control. And as such, automated processes are an essential part of proactive supply chain management in 2021 and beyond. That couldn’t be more accurate than looking at the industry as it prepares for another wave of COVID-19 vaccine distribution challenges and the lasting effects of winter weather-related disruptions. Request a FreightWaves SONAR demo, via the button below, to better navigate the freight market today.

White Papers
March 27, 2024

The State of Freight – March 2024

March 21, 2024

Take Demand Planning and Forecasting to the Next Level: An Introduction to Tender Data

February 6, 2024

Asleep at the Wheel: Shippers and the Freight Market Outlook for 2024