Despite the rapid adoption of technology across the logistics and transport sectors, significant challenges persist. According to Stanley Zaucha, director of product development at TrueTMS, while the industry is evolving rapidly, companies are still grappling with issues that hinder seamless digital transformation and efficiency.“Integration remains a major hurdle for many businesses,” Zaucha told Freight News. “A number of companies continue to struggle to connect their legacy systems with modern digital platforms.”In addition to this, the high cost of implementation remained a major barrier, particularly for small and mid-sized businesses, he said. “The adoption of advanced technologies can be expensive and many smaller companies find it difficult to justify the investment.”Cybersecurity has also become an escalating concern, with the increased digitalisation of the logistics industry exposing companies to a higher risk of cyber threats. “As more operations move online, the risk of cyberattacks grows, making it crucial for businesses to prioritise robust security measures,” said Zaucha. “Lastly, regulatory complexities continue to complicate the industry. Compliance with constantly evolving transport and trade regulations is a continuous challenge and staying on top of these changes requires dedicated resources a nd ag ilit y.”Embracing digital transformationDespite these challenges, the benefits of digital transformation far outweigh the risks. By eliminating inefficiencies caused by manual processes and outdated systems, companies can optimise operations and reduce costs. Cloud-based platforms like TrueTMS automate freight planning, optimise delivery routes and provide real-time tracking, significantly reducing fuel costs, delays and paperwork, said Zaucha.“By integrating machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT), companies can also predict maintenance needs, minimising breakdowns and costly disruptions.”Analysing routesAccording to Zaucha, companies are using big data to analyse shipping routes, track customer demand and predict bottlenecks before they occur. AI-powered analytics offer insights into cost savings, fuel efficiency and f leet performance, enabling businesses to make data-driven decisions that enhance profitability.“Technology is revolutionising our industry, making operations more efficient, cost-effective and resilient. By embracing AI, automation and big data analytics, logistics companies can stay ahead of the curve and future-proof their operations in a rapidly evolving landscape,” he said.This is also true for smaller operations. “There are cloud-based solutions available that offer cost-effective automation without requiring large IT infrastructure,” he said. “Companies can also partner with tech providers to leverage AI-driven insights and route optimisation tools. Equally important is digital training, which helps upskill staff and enhance operational efficiency.” LV
