Transforming Logistics with LoRa
The logistics industry is a critical backbone of global commerce The Logistics industry is experiencing a transformation led by the Internet of Things (IoT). At the heart of this transformation is LoRa (Long Range) technology, a wireless data communication technology designed to allow long-range communication at a low data rate, enabling devices to send small bits of information over wide areas. Adopting LoRa sensors in logistics properties has introduced significant benefits and innovative solutions.
Understanding LoRa Technology and Its Impact on Logistics
LoRa sensors and devices, part of the broader LoRaWAN IoT communication protocol, have made it possible to monitor and manage asset and goods transportation, movement, and safety in real time. This enables organisations to react rapidly to various situations, such as unexpected delays, damage to goods, or changes in environmental conditions during transport. LoRa technology has applications across several industry verticals, including retail, valuable goods transportation over the land and seas, farm animal tracking, and vehicle tracking.
LoRa-enabled sensors cannot only track the location of assets but also monitor parameters like temperature, stability, orientation, and humidity. These capabilities are customisable based on specific needs, paving the way for comprehensive and flexible logistics solutions.
Applications of IoT Sensors in Logistics
Warehouse Management
The deployment of IoT sensors in warehouses has streamlined inventory management. By monitoring inventory levels and optimising storage space, these sensors significantly reduce inventory errors. A notable use case of IoT sensors is the use of tracking sensors in tracking the movement of goods within a warehouse. By identifying bottlenecks, companies can optimise their warehouse layout, resulting in a more efficient workflow.
Fleet Management
In fleet management, IoT devices are a game-changer. Installed in vehicles, they track crucial parameters like location, speed, fuel consumption, and more. With the help of GPS sensors, logistics companies can track delivery trucks, optimise routes, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance driver safety, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient logistics operation.
Quality Control
IoT devices play an integral role in maintaining the quality of perishable items during transportation. By monitoring the humidity and temperature, and ensuring these parameters remain within a specific range, logistics companies can assure the quality of the goods is maintained, thus preventing losses and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Machinery and Equipment Monitoring
IoT devices and sensors also monitor the performance of machinery and equipment used in logistics operations. By identifying potential faults, these devices enable predictive maintenance, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance costs. The benefits of this cannot be overstated in an industry where time is often of the essence.
Logistic Use Cases
Norsea
Norsea, a prominent player in the logistics industry, has embraced the power of LoRaWAN technology for asset tracking and logistics. They have partnered with The Things Industries to implement a LoRaWAN network for asset tracking, leveraging condition data to provide proactive maintenance and reduce overall risk. By utilising LoRa-enabled sensors, Norsea gains real-time insights into the condition and location of their assets, allowing them to optimize their operations and minimize potential disruptions. This smart asset tracking solution has enabled Norsea to enhance their efficiency, reduce costs, and optimise the life-cycle cost of ownership, ultimately improving their overall logistics performance.
DHL
DHL, a global logistics company, has embraced IoT and sensor technology in its operations. DHL uses IoT devices to monitor the location, temperature, and humidity of its shipments in real time, optimising its supply chain and enhancing customer satisfaction. Additionally, DHL uses IoT devices to track the movement of its vehicles and optimise its routes by analysing traffic patterns, weather conditions, and other factors.
The Future of LoRa in Logistics
As the logistics industry continues to evolve, so does the application of LoRa technology. With the help of LoRaWAN networks like the Helium network, real-time monitoring of network components is possible and features like firmware updates over the air make maintaining logistics and asset tracking solutions easier. Different deployment options allow businesses to run The Things Stack on the Cloud or build it on their own isolated infrastructure, providing flexibility and scalability for growing logistics operations.
LoRa technology's ability to cover wide areas with low power consumption makes it an excellent solution for logistics operations. As more companies understand its benefits, LoRa is set to become an increasingly common feature in the logistics landscape.
How Can Nerba Sense Help?
The easiest way to access these features is using an IoT platform such as the Nebra Sense. Inside our platform users can collect, analyse, and take action based on data from multiple sensors and locations.
Moreover, Nebra Sense enables effortless integration of any type of sensor, allowing you to connect and monitor a wide range of devices. Each sensor comes with a barcode that you can simply scan and add to your dashboard in no time at all. Nebra Sense supports more than 254 brands of LoRa sensors and more are being added every month.
Create custom dashboards - take control of your devices through the user-friendly dashboard, where you can efficiently manage and track sensor data, device status, and performance in a centralised and visually appealing interface.
Extensive notification system - Set custom notifications based on specific value thresholds. Whether you’re monitoring temperature, humidity, pressure or any other sensor data, the extensive notification system ensures that you stay informed when critical thresholds are reached allowing you to make informed decisions.
Start your free 14-day trial now! Or book a Demo with one of our team!