Cargo tracking and vessel tracking – these terms are often used interchangeably in the logistics industry, but are they really the same? While they may seem similar at first glance, these two technologies are distinctly different. Both play crucial roles in logistics and supply chain management, but their purposes and functions are clearly distinguishable.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the concepts of cargo tracking and vessel tracking, the technologies used, and their practical applications in business operations. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of each and how they contribute to streamlining supply chain efficiency.
1: The Evolution of Logistics Tracking Technology
From Past Limitations to Present Necessities
In the past, logistics tracking technologies faced numerous limitations due to underdeveloped GPS technology, difficulties in data integration, lack of information sharing between companies, and more. However, with the rapid growth of the global logistics industry, increasing customer demands, technological advancements, and rising safety and environmental concerns, tracking technologies have now become indispensable elements of supply chain management.
The introduction of cutting-edge technologies such as GPS, IoT, big data analytics, and blockchain has enabled real-time monitoring of cargo and vessels. This allows logistics companies to analyze vast amounts of data and make more sophisticated decisions. The importance of tracking technologies continues to grow in terms of ensuring supply chain visibility, managing risks, and building sustainable logistics systems.
2: Cargo Tracking – The Key to Supply Chain Management
What is Cargo Tracking?
Cargo tracking is the process of monitoring the location of containers or cargo, primarily based on the Bill of Lading (B/L) number. Recent advancements have integrated technologies like GPS and IoT sensors, enabling not only real-time location tracking but also monitoring the condition of the cargo.
This allows for efficient management of logistics flows and provides accurate information to customers. Moreover, in case of cargo delays or issues, quick responses are possible, contributing to logistics cost reduction and improved customer satisfaction.
3: Vessel Tracking – Unlocking Optimal Maritime Freight Flow
What is Vessel Tracking?
Vessel tracking is the technology that monitors the real-time location of ships using identifiers such as MMSI, IMO number, and Call Sign. Various methods like AIS, radar, and satellite communication are used to track the vessel’s position, speed, direction, and more.
This technology is utilized for navigational safety, route planning, and logistics schedule management, contributing to the prevention of maritime accidents, optimal route design, and increased logistics efficiency. By accurately predicting vessel arrival times, terminal operators and shippers can develop effective cargo transportation plans based on this information.
4: Cargo Tracking vs Vessel Tracking – Similar Yet Different
Misconceptions and Truths
At first glance, cargo tracking and vessel tracking may appear similar. However, they are clearly distinct technologies. Cargo moves not only via ships but also through various means of transportation such as trucks and trains, and it is also transshipped during the transportation process. Therefore, tracking the cargo itself is essential for understanding and managing the entire movement path of the cargo, separate from vessel tracking.
So, what benefits does cargo tracking technology provide to businesses? It creates various values such as logistics process optimization through real-time location tracking, prediction and planning of delivery schedules based on tracking data, quick response to issues during transportation, and improvement of customer service. Especially in today’s world where the complexity and uncertainty of supply chains are increasing, precise tracking at the cargo level has emerged as a key factor determining a company’s competitiveness.
5: Easy and Fast Adoption of Cargo Tracking Technology with SaaS Solutions
Lowering Entry Barriers, Enhancing Effectiveness
So, how can companies adopt and utilize this crucial cargo tracking technology?
In the past, adopting tracking technologies tailored to a company’s situation was not easy. However, with the emergence of SaaS-based solutions, anyone can now easily utilize powerful tracking functionalities.
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution, a leading service, boasts numerous advantages:
5.1. Data Accuracy
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution provides highly accurate tracking information by utilizing various data sources such as carriers, terminals, and AIS. It not only provides vessel location information but also comprehensively analyzes and provides various data such as vessel speed, route, and transshipment information. This enables companies to make more accurate decisions.
5.2. Wide Coverage
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution can monitor more than 99% of the world’s maritime cargo volume. It can track not only major ports but also inland logistics, allowing for understanding the entire movement path of the cargo. This provides services optimized for global supply chain management.
5.3. Proactive Prediction of Cargo Delays
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution utilizes AI technology to proactively predict cargo delays. It analyzes past data and considers various factors such as vessel delays, weather deterioration, and port congestion. This allows companies to proactively respond to delays and prepare alternatives.
5.4. Easy Implementation
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution is a web-based solution that can be used immediately without separate infrastructure construction. It can also be easily integrated with the customer’s system through API.
Especially for logistics companies (forwarders), by easily integrating the plug-in of TRADLINX Ocean Visibility Solution into their website, they can provide real-time cargo tracking services to customers. This enables forwarders to enhance customer service and increase competitiveness.
6. Tracking Technology, No Longer an Option but a Necessity
As the uncertainties in the global supply chain grow, tracking the real-time location of cargo and vessels has become more important than ever. To quickly respond to issues during transportation, optimize maritime freight flow, and provide better services to customers, the adoption of sophisticated tracking technologies is indispensable.
In particular, amidst intensifying global competition, tracking technology has become a key factor in corporate competitiveness. In the future, real-time monitoring of cargo and vessels will be the norm in supply chain operations, and companies that effectively utilize this will lead the market.
Based on an understanding of these two technologies, cargo tracking and vessel tracking, if a company adopts a tracking solution suitable for its needs, it will be able to ensure supply chain visibility and significantly enhance its risk management capabilities. Now is the time to consider the strategic utilization of tracking technologies.
TRADLINX Ocean Visibility revolutionizes supply chain operations with its Ocean Visibility features, offering real-time shipment tracking, predictive analytics for lead times, and seamless management tools for freight forwarders and shippers worldwide.
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