Technology has been transforming the transportation landscape, a trend that is expected to continue in the coming years. The advances in technology have not only improved the way we move around, but they have also made transportation safer, more efficient, and more convenient, according to Dr Joash Mageto, a logistics and supply chain management researcher at the University of Johannesburg.Speaking at a recent Transport Forum, Mageto said it was only through the use of technology that a more sustainable, efficient, and convenient system would be developed for the movement of freight in South Africa.“Trucking remains the dominant mode of transport for the movement of freight across southern Africa. Our rail operation is at a suboptimal level while there is an overall weakness when it comes to modal integration.”Highlighting some of the challenges facing the logistics sector Mageto said technology played a vital role in shaping the future of transportation.“We have very real infrastructure challenges in this country, with road and rail networks often congested resulting in delays and increased costs. “Safety and security remain a concern while the pressure is on to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “The complexity of the many regulations and compliance requirements, along with the sector’s skills shortage, are also issues that operators have to contend with. All of these challenges impact the movement of freight, driving up the cost thereof.”He said as a country, solutions needed to be found to reduce delays and improve efficiency, all at a lower cost.“Technology can have a real impact on our logistics sector,” said Mageto. “The integration of technology such as GPS tracking, electronic logging devices and automated systems can help improve the efficiency and safety of freight transport. “It is, however, imperative that businesses speed up the adoption of these technologies or face being at a competitive disadvantage.”He said some of the advanced technologies that could be leveraged included autonomous trucks. “This technology has the potential to improve safety and reduce high labour costs. It is a viable solution to moving freight seamlessly in urban centres. If one considers the critical shortage of drivers in the country, this could be a very real solution.”The use of more electric trucks was another development that could see South Africa reduce its emissions and improve its sustainability. “GPS tracking and routing are ways to optimise routes and could reduce fuel consumption and improve ef f icienc y.”Cloud-based logistics management software could improve inventory levels, while robotics and automation can speed up the processes of loading and unloading cargo.“Blockchain technology is improving the transparency and traceability in the freight industry, reducing fraud and improving safety and security,” he said.Mageto acknowledged that not all technology could just be implemented. “There are still questions that need to be answered about what can work practically. “It is essential, however, that we start the conversations and see where we can apply technology to the benefit of our logistics sector and the movement of freight.”
