The Future of Shipment Visibility: Real-Time Insights with Generative AI

Real-time shipment visibility is a huge advantage in today’s complicated supply chains. It affects every part of the process, from sourcing raw materials to delivering final products. Why does it matter so much? Because it lets companies track their shipment at every stage, from pickup and transit to final delivery. This ensures that the shipments stay on track and avoid delays from unexpected issues.

In logistics, shipment visibility not only refers to real-time visibility but also involves risk management and alternate strategies like predictive analysis, multi-carrier shipping options, efficient routing plans, etc. With Generative AI, this process has become even more advanced. The technology uses GPS data and predictive analysis to get the accurate location of the shipment and forecast potential delays. This way logistics companies can stay ahead of issues, optimize routes, and make more informed decisions to ensure smooth and timely deliveries.

So, in this blog, we will discuss how generative AI enhances real-time shipment visibility in logistics, why it is important, and how companies can use these latest technologies to optimize their operations.

Why Real-Time Shipment Visibility is Important for Logistics

As per a survey by Sixfold, over 82% of companies believe that having real-time location of a shipment is crucial for business. Whether it’s a manufacturer waiting for the arrival of its raw materials or a customer waiting on his online purchase, knowing the exact location and status of the shipment is vital in many ways. An effective tracking system will not only improve transportation but also increase customer loyalty. Here are a few reasons why real-time shipment tracking is important:

• Customer Satisfaction: With the e-commerce boom in recent years, customers now expect to track their delivery in detail. They want live information on the delivery progress and delays in providing this information can lead to negative reviews and loss of business.
• Efficient Operations: Companies that can track their shipment in real-time can respond quickly in case of delays or disruptions. This reduces downtime and costs associated with late deliveries and inventory. It also increases delivery productivity, optimizes fuel consumption, and reduces miles travelled.
• Risk Management: Real-time shipment visibility helps companies mitigate risks like weather disruptions, road congestion, and port delays. With on-time information, businesses can adjust their plans and avoid costly consequences.
• Help with Regulatory Compliances: Government regulations are always changing. With international shipments, having transparent, real-time visibility can help companies avoid excessive taxes and fines.

Why Achieving Real-Time Shipment Visibility is Still a Challenge?

According to Tive, 77% of supply chain decision-makers consider real-time visibility a necessity, however, only 25% use it. Despite having the technology and professionals, achieving real-time shipment visibility still remains challenging for many logistics companies. Here are a few roadblocks that make it difficult for companies to achieve real-time visibility:

• Fragmented Systems: Logistics operations usually involve multiple stakeholders, such as shippers, carriers, and customs. These entities often use different systems, making it difficult to collect data and create a real-time view.
• Manual Processes: Many companies still rely on manual processes to track shipments, which can lead to delays in updating information and are more prone to errors.
• Data Overload: The volume of data generated by modern logistics operations can be overwhelming. Sorting this data and extracting vital insights can be daunting.

5 Ways Generative AI is Transforming Real-Time Shipment Visibility

Generative AI is a type of AI that can create new data and predict future outcomes by learning from historical data. In logistics, it can analyze data from different sources, identify patterns, and make accurate predictions. This helps businesses deliver shipments on time without any damage.

Here’s how generative AI is revolutionizing shipment visibility.

1. Route Optimization

Generative AI can forecast potential delays, predict arrival times, and suggest alternative routes to avoid disruptions. For example, it can analyze weather patterns, traffic, and previously delayed shipments to suggest a new route, ensuring on-time delivery.

2. Automate Data Integration

Generative AI integrates data from multiple sources, like GPS tracking, transportation management, and warehouse systems, creating a unified, real-time view of all shipments. This automation eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces errors.

3. Real-Time Risk Monitoring and Alerting

AI models monitor shipments in real-time and alert stakeholders of issues. For instance, if a truck is delayed due to traffic, the AI model can notify stakeholders and suggest alternate routes to prevent delays.

4. Better Carrier Visibility

Generative AI makes it easier for companies in ocean shipments by checking what’s happening with their carriers. By gathering data from various transportation modes, businesses can get a clear picture of their entire shipping network in real time. This means they can see where their carrier is at a given point in time and identify any potential issues.

5. Enhanced Communication

AI-powered models improve communication between all stakeholders in the supply chain by providing real-time updates and insights. This transparency ensures everyone has access to the same information, reducing miscommunication.

Get Real-Time Updates of your Shipment with the Power of AI

Generative AI in logistics significantly enhances real-time shipment visibility by predicting delays, integrating data, optimizing routes, and monitoring shipments. As AI technology continues to grow, logistics companies can enjoy transparency and convenience at their fingertips.

Meanwhile, Cozentus' custom models, powered by generative AI, are here to help you achieve this transparency. Our models can:

• Locate shipments seamlessly.
• Estimate arrival times accurately.
• Provide instant notifications when shipments cross borders.
• Update real-time risks and help mitigate potential losses.
• Respond immediately to user queries.
• Let users view the entire shipment landscape with customizable dashboards.

Learn more on how to track your shipment at any given time !