How Technological Advancements Are Making Waves In The Shipping Industry

It is safe to say that the shipping industry is one of the oldest and most essential powerhouses in the U.S. economy. In recent years, they have been under significant pressure as customer demands evolve with faster delivery expectations. These increasing demands are forcing established businesses to embrace new technologies.

Here are 6 Ways Technology is Changing the Shipping Industry

Once technology is introduced into an industry, companies and customers typically see drastic improvements in output. The case is no different for the shipping industry, where technologies are making waves.

  1. Green technology.
    Many businesses ship their products or purchase inventory overseas. The majority of these shipments are moved by ships. These days, ships are under pressure to be eco-friendlier. The industry is responding with greener options where ships travel using sustainable energy, like the wind.
  2. Autonomous vehicles.
    Cars without drivers was once a dream, that is now a reality. As testing continues, Uber partnered with Otto to create a kit that converts trucks into not needing a driver.
  3. Sailor-less ships.
    Just like driver-less vehicles are being tested in cities across the country, ships are also transitioning. Some companies are developing control centers that allow individuals to control multiple ships from one location. In addition, companies are also working to develop automated ships that are controlled by sensors.
  4. Revival of trains.
    Trains are one historical method of delivering goods that are making a comeback in Europe, and likely the U.S. in the near future. Transporting items by train is much faster than by ship, which will increase delivery times and improve customer satisfaction with companies.
  5. Doorstep delivery.
    Drones deliveries are now a reality, at least for some Amazon customers. The company has been practicing using their drones to deliver smaller packages in a certain mile radius from fulfillment centers.
  6. Adaptation of robots.
    In addition to drones, Amazon is also utilizing robots to fulfill orders in their shipping centers.
  7. LTL Trucking.
    Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is a great way to combine smaller freight loads. It does not require a full load in a tractor-trailer before shipments are made. Loading and delivering goods directly to retailers minimize handling costs.

One thing is for certain, as more and more consumers make online purchases, consumers still expect to have their purchases delivered in a timely fashion. One sure-fire way to get this done is by using a local courier company or LTL trucking. If your business is looking to work with an innovative shipping company, contact Econo-Courier today!