Transport monitoring is one of the most important measures that companies can take to reduce transport damage in the long term. Through efficient tracking, supply chain managers can quickly identify problems and pinpoint sections of the transport chain where products are particularly vulnerable to damage. An important question that transport managers need to ask themselves when choosing a monitoring system is what type of connection they want to use to monitor and analyse transport data.
There are a variety of connection options, including USB, WiFi, cellular, satellite, Bluetooth and RFID tracking. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each option and which connection type is right for my company?
In our blog article, we explain the different connection options and show you situations in which one or the other variant is the better solution for use.
USB
USB data recorders are a good solution for companies that have problems in their logistics and transport chain and want to get to the bottom of the causes. If you choose a USB data logger, you will receive an affordable and easy-to-set-up tracking system that can be used to record temperature, shock and vibration data and other environmental data. This makes it easy to analyse where and when problems occur in the supply chain and during transport. The data can be easily analysed after shipping and changes can be made for the next transport. USB data loggers are not suitable for real-time monitoring of transports.
WiFi
A tracking system with WiFi connectivity (WLAN) can be a good option for companies that need to monitor environmental data in a local area. They are ideal for use in stationary operations, such as warehousing. Wifi devices, for example, are a good solution for monitoring a temporary storage facility if an internet connection is already available. In this way, problems can be reliably recognised during storage and appropriate corrective measures can be initiated. As long as an internet connection is available, supply chain managers always have an overview of the environmental conditions of their goods despatch. WiFi solutions are less suitable for monitoring the entire supply chain, as it is not always guaranteed that an internet connection will be available during transport. With WiFi monitoring devices, for example, vibrations and temperatures outside an acceptable range are measured and recorded.
Mobile radio (GPRS)
For companies that want to monitor their product throughout the entire transport process, a mobile radio connection is the best option. With a mobile connection, transport data can be accessed around the clock from anywhere in the world. For example, mobile phones can be used to monitor packages, containers, load carriers and pallets during transport. Real-time monitoring enables supply chain managers to immediately rectify problems and stop damaged shipments before they reach their destination. This allows companies to save significant amounts of money by resolving issues before shipments reach the customer and optimising supply chains so that they do not occur again in the future.
Satellite
Another global option for transport monitoring is via satellite. The satellite connection can track shipments in real time around the globe and provide accurate data reports. This allows unacceptable transport conditions to be recognised and gives supply chain managers the opportunity to intervene in good time before the shipment arrives damaged at the customer. Satellite communication requires a line of sight with the satellite, so connection problems can occur when shipments have to be transported through a tunnel in the mountains, for example. However, the satellite connection also reaches far-flung corners of the world where a mobile phone connection may not always be available. For those who are regularly travelling in rural or off-grid environments, satellite connectivity is a good option for monitoring supply chains in real time.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless communication protocol that enables device communication within a short distance. Bluetooth can be used for local monitoring. In contrast to WiFi, Bluetooth devices can also be used outside of your own network. Wireless data transmission means that data can be conveniently collected and stored with a Bluetooth-enabled phone or tablet. Bluetooth-enabled monitoring systems can be easily attached to packaging and transmit data via wireless connections. Bluetooth monitors can be used, for example, to monitor the humidity in transformers and other electronic devices, the environmental conditions of rental equipment and the detection of moisture and shock loads, e.g. during the transport of furniture and car parts.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)
Another connection option is RFID. Typical RFID tracking systems consist of a transponder that contains an identifying code and a reader to read the identifier. RFID can be seen as a more robust replacement for barcodes. With RFID devices, goods can be localised and environmental conditions can be tracked - for example in the warehouse or during transport. If conditions occur that could cause damage to the product, RFID devices trigger an alarm. RFID solutions can be easily integrated into an existing ERP system, providing even more transparency within the supply chain.
RFID connections are often used for inventory and asset tracking and monitoring. Furniture, glass, electronics and food are some of the items that can be monitored with RFID. A very fast-growing market for RFID use is in the pharmaceutical industry.
Choosing the right connection
The use of tracking systems can save companies a lot of money and time. When choosing the right connections, supply chain managers should first analyse their supply chain and determine where and in which section of the supply chain products are particularly susceptible to damage. Transport managers should also ask themselves what data they need and whether the transport should only be monitored in a specific section or across the entire supply chain? Only by correctly analysing the transport chain and the requirements derived from this can companies answer the question of which type of connection is the right one for the respective supply chain. Detailed advice from a manufacturer or distributor is also recommended in order to avoid mistakes and to obtain a monitoring device that meets the respective product and transport requirements.