Ever since drones appeared on the market for entertainment purposes, a lot of people started to think about the potential they can bring to the supply chain. As you can imagine, drones have the innate ability to provide solutions for a variety of tasks that people might not be able to perform themselves. Plus, they are both versatile and adaptable in many situations, which make them ideal for repetitive duties.
Obtaining raw materials
With sophisticated logistics software and proper guidelines in place, operators can start relying on drones for raw material acquisition. Allowing logistics companies to transport numerous materials from one place to another seamlessly. You can solve a vast array of issues this way, and lessen the likelihood of human error, with the added benefit of knowing exactly when and where a drone will arrive.
Land surveying, prospecting and mining
Yes, drones can also be a part of the initial part of a supply chain. They can be used to inspect fields and mines, they can also survey land and sea and take pictures from afar to ensure feasibility for operators. Beyond this, drones can also be used to test soil and collect key samples.
Identified Tech states, “Though there are tools that have traditionally been used for land surveying, it may be time to give them an upgrade – to drones. With some budget refactoring to allow for no additional cost, the use of drones would allow land surveyors to obtain data just as accurate as before but in a safer, more manageable, and time-efficient manner.”
Using drones during the manufacturing process
Additionally, drones can be used during the manufacturing process, moving materials from one division to the other. On top of that, they can be employed as a warehousing solution, sorting and processing products, making the supply chain far more efficient.
Engineer Live states, “Once the raw materials are inside the factory, drones can be used for a number of functions including materials handling, transporting products or refilling caches.
The technology can also be used to inspect and monitor quality. Within the warehouse drones can measure inventory, using barcodes, QR codes or radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology.”
Better security
It’s important to ensure that the supply chain works as expected and no one interferes with it, especially not thieves and criminals looking to take advantage. Drones can therefore be used as a tool to boost security and ensure everything is safe. A drone can actually stick to a perimeter and ensure that your goods are being monitored at all times, deterring any criminal activity that may impact your supply chain business.
Tracking inventory
Drones can be used to track products and processes, employing IoT, QR codes and RFID in order to oversee physical inventory. Since drones can move small items a lot faster, you don’t have to rely on conveyor systems or forklifts. It’s a system that delivers tremendous value for the supply chain, and it can be adjusted accordingly.
Conclusion
As you can see, using drones across the supply chain has many benefits, and the potential to bring in extraordinary success to number of businesses globally. There are plenty of customization possibilities with drones, meaning they are multipurpose machines that can be used across the board. With the right logistics software and a proper technological system’s in place, you will find it easier than ever to better optimize the supply chain and push your logistics business to the next level. It’s important to try and harness the power of drones and enhance the supply chain, it will be well worth it in the long run!
