3D threatens logistics chain

Container shipments are
increasingly under threat
as the 3D printing industry
takes off.
“As 3D printing becomes
more common, many
products, their parts, or the
raw materials needed in
their manufacture can be
made locally, thus reducing
or eliminating the need to
globally ship them to market,”
said Andrew Schmahl, adviser
to Strategy&, PwC’s strategy
consulting business.
He points out that
footwear, electronics,
automotive parts and toys, for
example, are likely to require
much less shipping in the
future because they are highly
suitable for 3D printing.
“About 41% of air cargo
and 37% of ocean container
shipments are threatened by
3D printing,” said Schmal.
While road transport
should be less affected, it is
still vulnerable due to the
potential decline in goods that
start as air or sea cargo and
ultimately need some form of
overland transport.