One of the most stressful times in the lives of most business owners is when they send out their products for shipping to buyers. Once the containers are loaded and the cargo is out of the port, it creates chaos in the owners’ minds. Why? That’s because there are tons of things that can go wrong throughout the voyage. The shipping company can leave the cargo at a port, mishandle it, or there could be a shark attack!
There are endless possibilities as to what can happen to the cargo, and if any one of them occurs, there’ll be a massive delay. Such delays can further disrupt the company’s supply chain, and everything will become complicated. Due to such reasons, it is highly advisable to go for digital cargo tracking.
Gone are the days when one had to call the ports and ask for updates on their cargo.
In today’s digital age, you can easily track your cargo from the comfort of your office. Besides, you can also plan further steps based on the current data that you will receive.
Simply speaking, cargo tracking is the process of keeping an eye on your shipment in real-time and getting updates accordingly. Though there are tons of companies that do provide container tracking services, it’s best to select the one that provides automatic updates on your shipment, that too at regular intervals.
Types of Cargo Tracking
When we talk about the various methods of container tracking only 3 come into our mind: website tracking, long-range, and short-range cargo tracking.
But, which of these methods will give you maximum benefits? To know that, you need to understand each of them properly.
Tracking Websites
Website tracking is mostly provided by shipping websites. These websites provide proper tracking details to consumers on where their package is, the ports that it has crossed, and other details. However, getting real-time details is quite difficult from such websites.
However, if you only need basic shipping information, this is the best available option. All you need is the cargo’s booking number or Bill of Lading number, and then enter it on the shipping company’s website. You will get all the information about the shipment on the next page.
Long-Range Cargo Tracking
Long-range tracking includes GPS and GSM devices that directly communicate with the satellite or cellular connection to provide you with real-time data. There are two ways to install GPS on your cargo: through magnetic devices or with the help of locking mechanisms.
While magnetic devices are located between the cargo, locking mechanisms seal the cargo along with the tracking device. GPS container tracking system works when the vehicle starts moving. The device senses movement through accelerometer, captures data, and sends it ahead through a satellite or cellular connection.
However, one of the biggest difficulties you might face while using a GPS tracking device is the lack of open areas. As most of the time, cargo is in a closeted space, it becomes difficult to get a network that further delays the process. Additionally, tracking devices are a bit expensive and come with shorter life-span.
Short Range Cargo Container Tracking
In short-range container tracking, the device does not directly converse with cellular or satellite connections; rather, it provides details through other methods. There are various IoT systems that can be designed as per the organization’s needs and used for cargo tracking.
For example, you can opt for advanced bolt seals that come with RFID tags and a unique TID number. As these seals are one of a kind, replicating them will be difficult, so there’s no chance of theft. Moreover, the presence of RFID makes it easier to get real-time alerts without any hassle. The tracking device will notify you if the seal has been tampered with or when the vehicle goes in an opposite direction.
Short-range container tracking systems are cost-efficient and customizable. Moreover, it would be a one-time investment that will provide you with benefits in the long run.
Benefits of Cargo Tracking
Digital cargo tracking has solved a lot of problems that companies used to face earlier. You don’t have to worry about lost cargo, wrong documentation, and much more. Here are some of the benefits that you can get through digital tracking.
- Return On Investment: Most companies completely depend on cargo shipping to maintain the flow of their supply chains. Due to this, it is important to invest in a proper container tracking process that will provide you with good returns on your investment. If the shipment is delayed for any reason, you will get alerts and plan future steps to keep the supply chain moving.
- Future Planning: Proper tracking can also help you design plans and discover new routes for faster shipment. Based on the information that you get from the tracking software, you can design future tracking routes and improve your services accordingly.
- Proper Management: Container tracking also helps in proper inventory and documentation management. As you get regular updates about shipping, you know the amount of space that the shipment will require and alert warehouses for the same. Moreover, with the help of container tracking online, there are fewer chances of mistakes in documentation. Everything is recorded in the software that you can use to verify your products.
Conclusion
Digital cargo tracking is the need of the hour. With people depending more on online shopping and businesses, all companies must invest in proper cargo container tracking methods and improve customer service as well.
If you wish to know more about tracking methods, electronic cargo tracking, cargo tracking container, and similar things, contact Sepio Products at hello@sepioproducts.com