Comprehension of the Vast, Stormy Supply Chain

Weather related logistics issues were rampant last month, and just like during the 2020 pandemic shut-downs, people across the entire country realized how far-reaching logistical problems can be. Empty shelves due to overbuying, but also lack of timely deliveries, hit the everyday consumer hardest right where they live, nationwide. Many were suddenly faced with the inconveniences or severe impacts that happen when any piece of the supply chain sees disaster. Consumers can easily imagine that trucks struggle to make it down roads, even the largest highways, in harsh enough conditions. They experience that as well and may even have the option of staying home. Truck drivers aren’t so fortunate. Ice and poor visibility can cause accidents, offroading, impasses, and full road closures preventing deliveries from reaching their destinations. And yet, that’s only a part of the equation. Loading dock workers may be unable to make it to their shifts or safely do their jobs. Equipment on trucks doesn’t always survive extreme conditions, and mechanics & truck parts are subject to the same delays and hazards. Furthermore, even if some branch of the logistical network is clear, materials and resources further up the supply chain may face adversity and delays, which sends problems down the line affecting more and more goods and services. Behind the scenes at logistics companies, the daily art of connecting the pieces doesn’t necessarily run the same either. According to Sleek’s Will Doyel, “Relationships, tender acceptances, and patience are tested, revealing the hidden challenges faced by both asset-based companies and 3PLs. Understanding the capacity crunch caused by weather-related issues is crucial for all stakeholders.” “Beyond snow and...

Trucking & Cell Signal Infrastructure in the Rural U.S.

Mobile Communication is Critical for the US Supply Chain It may or may not be common knowledge, but parts of the United States’ countryside are in great need of better cell coverage & technology options.  The reasons are vast, but there’s even more at stake than the quality of life and communications for rural residents.  While that should already be enough to get on board with infrastructural updating, I’m going to offer another reason:  Trucking. It’s easy to take trucking for granted, but supply chains impact everyone.  We trust that we can find the products we seek at the retailers that sell them.  The reality is that transportation logistics is a complicated, detailed world, and there’s no doubt that technology brings new efficiencies to that world every day.  Technology aims to streamline logistical processes:  scheduling & planning, load tendering, shipment tracking, facility/dock management, and many other aspects.  Trucks move through some of the most disconnected regions of this country, and often enough, shipping and receiving facilities are found in these areas as well.   The Impact of Unreliable Communication Trucks and manufacturers count on technology to keep everything connected and running smoothly.  Information and speed are required to efficiently move products.  The greater the demand for products, the greater the need for fast & accurate data.  Data flow is compromised in “dead zones”.  This often puts the burden on drivers, using devices with low-or-no signal, to report mechanical problems, work around delays, receive appointment & dock updates, and book their next loads.  One driver, frustratingly having to fight against a spotty signal, can prevent entire shipments from reaching their destination in...