Keeping track of your parcel’s progress along its journey from sender to recipient has never been easier. This is thanks to advances in Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and the Internet of Things (IoT) enabling connectivity of small devices remotely. Read on to discover how these elements interplay to form a complex technological system worthy of the best sci-fi films.
Keeping Track of the Fleet
The simplest form of tracking, which every local courier service in Dubai should be using, is fleet tracking. Each vehicle moving goods in the supply chain is fitted with an IoT device. These devices then use GPS to give either real-time or intermittent location updates to a central server. These updates are then integrated with location-reporting software, so any query regarding the vehicle’s position generates an accurate map display of its progress.
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Using AI and machine learning, this data can then also be used for routing optimisation. Weather updates, traffic conditions, and other circumstances can be considered by the software, and more efficient revised routes suggested to drivers. For drivers covering long distances such as international courier services in Dubai, this facility can be invaluable.
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For even closer monitoring of goods, IoT devices can be placed on individual pallets or containers within a shipment. This individual shipment tracking uses the same hardware and software to achieve a more detailed picture of the movement of specific items.
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Warehouse and Storage Tracking
The location and movement of items within a warehouse can now be even more precisely traced. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Beacons are battery-powered devices that can be affixed to items or pallets. They then report their approximate position to any connected Bluetooth device within range. While ideal for smaller-scale operations, their limited accuracy and range mean that for larger warehouses, more powerful technology is required.
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The larger scale is where Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Beacons come into their own. UWB anchors are placed around a space to be tracked- for example, a portion of the warehouse. Individual tags are then affixed to specific products or assets, and anchors track the location of each tag within that space. Able to provide fast and extremely accurate positional reporting across much greater distances, UWB Beacons are the optimal choice for advanced storage facilities.
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This technology combines perfectly with existing RFID (radio frequency identification) chips and barcode technology. By assigning each item with an individual barcode or ID, workers can then use scanners to provide precise locations of each parcel’s movements through the warehouse and beyond.
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These methods will generate a unique tracking number for your parcel, which you can use to chart its progress. If you’re wondering ‘How do I see my tracking number?’ it should be printed clearly on your receipt of postage. Simply input it here to find out where your item is along its journey.
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This vast amount of data does need processing somehow- and supply chain control towers can make sense of it all. They use sophisticated Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to integrate disparate software programs and data sets. This then enables end users to get a simple, accurate answer when querying where an item is.
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