Technology has brought about several changes in the ways of doing things, affecting everyday life and major industries, including the shipping industry. Technology has introduced several opportunities and new ways of doing things to cut cost, preserve the environment, reduce human errors and ensure overall effectiveness in the provision of shipping solutions. Here, we discuss the various ways by which technology has impacted the shipping industry.
- Smart shipping
The internet of things which is defined as “the interconnection of machines and devices through the internet, enabling the creation of data that yields analytical insights and supports new operations,” has a great impact on the shipping industry. It has changed the way information is gathered and processed—two things that form the core of the shipping industry. Although, there were means of collecting data in the past, the internet of things has made the process very easy, allowing for the sharing of real-time information that allows for tracking and monitoring vessels as well as route optimization. The availability of modernized sensors and real-time data gathering systems allows for efficiency in the shipping world.
- Blockchain
Usually used to improved efficiency in the financial sector, Blockchain provides a means for easy data documentation that reduces delays at ports, human mistakes and fraud tendencies. Blockchain is used by shipping agencies in place of manual means of logbooks, spreadsheets etc. It allows for a single system to be used in collating travel logs, data and inventory. The system is in such a way that changes cannot be made without the knowledge of all parties involved in the transaction. This goes a long way to help in providing cost-effective shipping solutions.
- Augmented reality (AR)
Augmented reality has the ability to connect workers in various geographic locations. It also helps in carrying out various aspects of the shipping procedures virtually, accounting for speed, convenience and accuracy. The use of AR allows for staff meetings or trainings to take place among workers in different countries. It also makes it possible to carry out certain repairs of products and certain demonstrations. Shipping crews can also inspect ships and hold important meetings using AR. It’s likely to take some years before AR devices are fully adopted in the shipping world. It is, however, certain that a technology as this will revolutionize the shipping industry.
- Automated Ships and Trucks
There’s now the use of automated cranes that transfers shipping cargoes to stores. The future is however promising as automated ships are being developed. These ships are expected to be controlled from a central point. They would be remotely controlled and can even take certain actions by themselves. These ships will be able to execute complex tasks through the increasing development in electronic sensors, computing, telecommunication, digital connectivity. The advantage is that it will reduce costs and be eco-friendly. The many mistakes made by the crew will be lessened, eradicating slow delivery and losses. These and many more are what is to be expected in the next few years to come. They may seem so strange and even leave us awe-struck but we believe that it will go a long to make the shipping process easy for both clients and clients.
